SUNDAY’S Kilcunda Lobster Festival was the 38th annual event for the coastal town with locals and tourists alike fronting the crowds to partake in what seemed like the biggest turnout yet.
Tunes live from The Times entertained families and friends as they strolled over 50 market stalls –ranging from handmade jewellery and artwork by DaSuze Art, all whilst indulging in crepes and lemonade from Le Gourmet Lemon or enjoying a cocktail from the bar.
The family and pet friendly festival again catered for all ages with face painting from Laurie Faulkner, rides from Taylors Amusements, and carnival games with prizes to be won.
The SES and CFA volunteers also had their trucks and gear on display, showcasing the tools and training of those in the community that work meticulously to help the coastal town of Bass Coast and surrounds – with Flynn Swanwick and Rod Legg demonstrating the hydraulic cutters used in road rescue. “Our team are always looking for volunteers,” said San Remo SES Unit Controller Mandy Chancellor.
The lobster festival is just that – a community event that brings locals together in support of one other and in support of the local township, with sustainability a core focus.
Visitors indulged in a fresh seafood lunch and purchased tickets to the famed spinning wheel for their chance to win a fresh lobster from the San Remo Fisherman’s Co Op.
In effort to continue sharing a message on sustainability, the Kilcunda Community Association collaborated with the Bass Coast Shire Council once again where ‘Waste Warrior’ Shana Bremner and the Phillip Island Scouts Boots Steve Scott with Harvey and Hannah helped visitors divert their waste appropriately.
“The festival is proactively sustainable, there is enormous effort and resources to help educate the community,” said Shana. “With the clear message to avoid the use of single use plastic and dispose of waste correctly.”
President of the Kilcunda Community Association Marcel Van de Bronk shared that all funds earned at the festival will go back to the community.
“I am so grateful for the support of the volunteers, and the members of the Kilcunda Community Association,” said Marcel.
“This year we welcomed YMCA Skate Parks to hold the inaugural skate competition.”
Skate Park Coordinator for Bass Coast Jerrie Liberaty collaborated with Action Sports Program leaders Dylan Lewis, and Burt Smith to run the scooter and skate competition; a highlight of the day getting children and youth involved in the annual event to share their passions and showcase their talent.