Mullumbimby’s Laneway Festival was a kaleido of colour and fun as the Main Street was shut down and the laneways turned into hubs of activities and excitement on Sunday afternoon and evening.
Thousands of people descended on the town despite the rain to immerse themselves and their families in music, art, activities, and to enjoy the range of shows that took place.
‘Bunny Racket really got the kids engaged and up and enjoying the afternoon,’ organiser, Steve Drake told The Echo.
‘I had people coming up and telling me how they had never witnessed anything like it, the community really came together in a truly unique way to celebrate Mullumbimby. From the stage with the buskers, who are all local and were so talented, to Spaghettis Circus stilt walkers, art and great music it was wonderful to see so many people there to enjoy the event.’
‘From local first responders, the Byron Shire Council, local businesses and the Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce the whole community worked really hard to put this on,’ explained Janelle Stanford from the Mullumbimby Chamber.
‘The whole community worked so well together with respect and we all really appreciate the effort everyone put in.’
From one mum commenting on how much her teenage son enjoyed playing handball with a policewoman to a newly arrived couple from Tasmania who had never had the opportunity to enjoy being part of public art making there were firsts for many people throughout the day.
‘People didn’t just come and witness performances and shows,’ said Steve. ‘They took something away from the festival. It was great to see so many families and children arrive and get straight into the activities and experiences on offer.’
The Progressive Dinner Party held the night before the festival was also a great success with lots of delicious food and great music – it was the one event that raised money to support the Laneways Festival alongside local business sponsors and a small grant from Byron Shire Council.
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