THE INAUGURAL Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival is set to bring art, community and conservation together, over four days, from May 8 to 11.
If you’ve noticed some colourful wallabies appearing around Proserpine and Airlie Beach, you’re not imagining things!
These eye-catching cutouts and sculptures are part of the upcoming Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival, a new local celebration that blends creativity with conservation.
The festival officially launches on Thursday, May 8, with an Opening Night event at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.
Everyone is welcome!
It marks the culmination of two years of planning, artworks, and community collaboration, all centred around one special local: The endangered Proserpine Rock Wallaby.
“This unique event brings attention to this shy, rarely seen marsupial, through art installations and community activities,” festival spokesperson Glenda Brown said.
“With support from the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) and local sponsors, the festival features more than 75 hand-painted, two-dimensional wallabies, created by the Proserpine Men’s Shed and decorated by students from Proserpine State High School.
“These wallabies are placed throughout town, creating a fun and friendly trail for families and visitors to explore.”
Adding another layer of creativity, 20 three-dimensional wallaby sculptures, designed by local artist Linda Forrester and painted by regional artists, are hidden in key locations.
They form part of the Rock Wallaby Treasure Hunt — a highlight for all ages, with prizes to be won and plenty of surprises along the way.
As the sun sets, festivalgoers can look out for a glowing 1.6-metre wallaby lantern, created by installation artist Lalune Croker, adding a warm light to the festivities and serving as a symbol of the festival’s message — celebrating the life, beauty and fragility of our local environment.
The festival also showcases artistic talent, with the Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival Art Exhibition opening on Thursday night and featuring 90 artworks from local creatives.
On Saturday, May 10, hands-on art workshops invite the community to ‘come and try’ — no experience necessary.
You can also watch some artists at work during the ourSCAPE Artist challenge where ‘plein air’ (outdoor) artworks will be created in just four hours.
To celebrate Mother’s Day, a special High Tea will be held in the Proserpine Entertainment Centre auditorium, on Sunday, May 11, complete with sweet treats, entertainment and locally donated prizes.
Following that, the Art Markets will wrap up the weekend with live music, family-friendly activities, and stalls offering handmade gifts and artworks.
The Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival is a celebration of place, creativity and care for nature.
Locals and visitors are invited to take part, enjoy the activities, and show support for the local artists and wildlife that make our region special.
There is so much going on. For full program details visit: www.creativeconnectionswhitsunday.com/future-events.
