Bellingen is buzzing with creativity this week as a record number of 1254 ‘campers’ take part in the 40th annual Camp Creative.
Beautiful weather blessed the first day of Camp Creative on Monday and the music, art, dance, woodworking, games and fun have kept the positive vibes going all week.
Camp Creative President Rob Stockton said people of all ages and backgrounds join in on a joyful hive of productivity, experimentation and learning.
He said participants have come from as far as Canada and France to attend a diverse range of 90 courses.
“Over 80 percent of visitors come from outside the Bellingen Shire, and they stay in a myriad of locations including local billets, caravan parks, Air BnBs, motels, hotels and private accommodation from Coffs Harbour to Nambucca,” Mr Stockton said.
“Whether you're a novice, hobbyist or master artist, Camp Creative is an opportunity for a surge of creative energy and inspiration for your new year.”
“All the old favourite courses are back including Chinese brush painting, Café Latte, Silversmithing, ukeleles and guitar.”
There are also a lot of newcomers that include the Alchemy of Bread, Unlock your inner Musician as well as Dungeons and Dragons.
Mr Stockton said the Beginners Bridge course had been a big hit.
“The course started with 12 players, and we had to close it off at 20 participants. Coffs Harbour Bridge Club provided 2 full scholarships, and this was very appreciated”
The creative buzz extended into the evening with events including the Festival of Music at the Memorial Hall and the ever-popular Bash will be at the Federal Hotel
The 40th anniversary celebrations will culminate tonight with The Party in the Park with a free concert featuring five bands including the Versace Boys led by well-known local, Will Henderson, and local food vendors.
“The Party in the Park is the traditional thank you from Camp Creative to the Bellingen Community. The week concludes with the Grand Finale which is already sold out. There is much excitement over a piece commissioned for the 40th anniversary and composed by Paul Jarman.”
There will be more coverage of Camp Creative in the next edition of the Bellingen Shire News.
