Harfest success: a joyous celebration of harvest and community

What a fantastic day we had at Harfest 2025! On Saturday, March 15, over 500 friends and families gathered in the quarry at Warrnambool Community Garden to celebrate the harvest with delicious food, great music, and plenty of fun. We couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out. It’s all thanks to the amazing community spirit that made it happen.

A huge thank you

We want to send a big, heartfelt THANK YOU to all the local businesses and community groups that contributed. Whether you lent us a stage, a van, marquee, or donated potatoes, carrots, and soft drinks, your support made a massive difference. We're so grateful for your generosity and kindness. This fundraiser was our best one yet!

Fun for all

The garden was buzzing with energy all afternoon. The kids’ zone was a hit, filled with classic games like parachute, hopscotch, and playdough. We even had a fun twist on Mr. Potato Head with a “Make Your Marrow Pet Parade.” Special thanks to Volcano Produce Tower Hill for donating the potatoes and carrots that made this creative activity possible.

For those who preferred a slower-paced experience, the weaving circle led by Gilgar Gunditj artists Sandra and Melissa Aitken was a beautiful spot to listen, learn, and create.

And the music?

Absolutely top-notch! We showcased a range of rhythms, starting with the Warrnambool and District Pipe Band opening the show as they marched down the hill, the Southern Ocean Sea Band entertained us with their shanties, Seal Prince and the Roof Rats had everyone on their feet.

Our dance floor lit up as André Elhay’s Afro-Cuban Adventure kept the energy flowing, while local DJs Naomy Paddon supported by DJ Jack_4ss, fresh from Freeza’s workshops, spun fantastic tunes as the sun set over the quarry.

Learning and growing together

Harfest wasn’t just about having fun. It was also the culmination of a six-week event management course run by Worn Gundidj. Participants learned everything from event planning to budgeting and marketing, putting their skills into action by helping make Harfest a reality.

Big thanks to Workforce Australia Local Jobs South Coast, Worn Gundidj Nursery, are-able, Sureway Employment & Training, and ACFE for supporting this program. It’s fantastic to see how the garden serves as a place for learning and growth in many ways.

More than just a garden

Warrnambool Community Garden is much more than just a spot to grow veggies. It’s a vibrant community hub. With over 200 members and a variety of projects, it features spaces such as the quarry amphitheatre and sensory gardens. Here, people come together to share, learn, and celebrate.

Can’t wait for Harfest 2026!

We're already excited about next year’s Harfest. If you missed out this time, make sure you mark your calendars for Saturday, March 14, 2026. It’s a day full of good vibes, community spirit, and plenty of reasons to celebrate.

We hope to see you there!