Beware the ghouls at Coal Creek this Halloween

A SPOOKY but fun family evening is planned for ‘Ghoul Creek’, Coal Creek’s Halloween identity, with the chance for youngsters to enjoy trick or treating in a safe environment on Tuesday October 31.

“We’re going back to the original traditions Halloween came from, which was All Hallows Eve,” Korumburra Lions Club president Roger Powell said.

The event is designed for those aged under 12.

While free to attend, registration is essential as numbers are limited and attendees must have a ticket.

Kids will get a map on arrival, outlining the trick or treat trail to follow, with various stores operating as treat stations manned by members of community groups who are set to dress for the occasion.

The trick or treat stations will create an appropriate mood, with the use of smoke effects, lighting and jack-o’-lanterns.

The action will take place mainly at the top end of ‘Ghoul Creek’, down to the rotunda. 

Those embarking on the trick or treat trail are encouraged to get into the spirit of the occasion.

“We’re wanting people to dress up in their best Halloween gear,” Roger said.

It’s the first time in a few years a Halloween event is being held at ‘Ghoul Creek’, with a change in format from the previous larger scale version that had an admission fee.

Korumburra Lions Club and Coal Creek management have organised the Halloween event, but Roger explained that many others have contributed.

“The community groups have really got behind this,” he said.

A number of groups have donated money towards the purchase of sweets, with South Gippsland Shire Council also contributing to that cause through its Small Grants program.

Sausages in bread, soft drinks and chips will be available to purchase, with the local Lions and Rotary Clubs teaming up to provide catering. 

There will be a demonic DJ in the rotunda on the pond, with parents able to enjoy the occasion while kids play on the grassy area.

The fire and brimstone blacksmith will be making trinkets, and haunted cartoons can be viewed on a big screen in the Mechanics’ Hall.  

Roger outlined the history behind Halloween.

“All Hallows Eve was the evening before All Saints Day, November 1, and it was declared as the day that the world we live in and the world of the spirits came together,” he said.

“That’s the tradition of it, and the trick or treating is an Irish tradition, and you had to put treats out in the bottom of your garden or the fairies would play nasty tricks on you.”

Those setting out on the trick or treat trail can expect to learn the association between Halloween, goblins, ghouls and pumpkins.

Roger stressed that while there will be a spooky element to the evening it won’t be too scary, ensuring participants still get a good night’s sleep unless the sugar intake keeps them awake.

The fun starts at 4.30pm and runs until 7.30pm, with no alcohol permitted.

Free bookings must be made through Eventbrite, with a link provided on the Coal Creek Community Park and Museum Facebook page.