First formed a decade ago by locals concerned at the lack of affordable entertainment for drought stricken farming families in the region, the original emphasis was on providing as many free activities as possible, to keep the spirits high in a time of adversity and so it remains today.

Once again kite enthusiasts from all over the state will converge at the Harden Picnic Racecourse on Saturday, October 10, to partake in the iconic event which will bring a great deal of colour and flair to the skies on the outskirts of the twin towns. 

Two of the kite festival organisers Keith and Kate Ward are genuinely looking forward to welcoming all-comers on the big day.

Kate who is Secretary of the festival said recently, that the show in the sky is a credit to the group of volunteers who have worked hard all year round to stage the event.

“I think it is quite amazing for the volunteer group to have reached ten years. It is a real milestone and we look forward to it continuing and growing into the future,” said Mrs Ward.

Mr Ward who is Publicity Officer wished to acknowledge those businesses supporting the event.

“We are so grateful to have received some great contributions from our major sponsors, which include the Harden Shire Council, Sibelco Australia, the Kruger Trust, the South West Slopes Credit Union and the Harden Murrumburrah branch of the Bendigo Bank for coming on board with us once again this year.

“Without their support we just wouldn’t be able to run it,” he said.

People with all varying kite flying skill levels are invited to participate in the event and they can bring their own kite or purchase one from the stall on the day.

“We encourage anyone who has an interest in flying a kite whether a veteran or a novice, to come and give it a go,” said Keith.

Those who feel less inclined to take to the skies may indulge in a large range of activities including face painting by the renowned Deborah Lane, being entertained by a balloon twisting artist and they can also pick up a free helium balloon. 

There will also be live music by the Phatboyz from Young, a free climbing wall as well as a free bungee trampoline, which are all expected to the enhance the carnival-like atmosphere on the day.

To mark the tenth anniversary of the event, there will be an attempt to set a record for the number of ducks-in-a-row attached to a kite tail.

Patrons wanting to be part of this great event, are encouraged to sign the bright yellow ducks, which are available at a number of local businesses.

These include the West End Gift Shop in Neill Street, the P&D Store in Murrumburrah as well as Harden Bearings and Hardware in Station Street and of course participants may also can grab one on the day with the idea being to add it to the tail to see how many ducks can be lifted at the same time. 

The ducks are being made by the Harden Murrumburrah Men’s Shed which is another fine example of the community working together.

Once again Michael Richards from Kite Magic will be attending this year’s festival and the long-time kite expert will be conducting kite making workshops at both EA Southee Public School and Elouera Special School both of Cootamundra in the two days leading up to the event.

With over $800 in prize money to be won in the kite competitions, there is lots of fun to had for people young and old and it is a great family day out with plenty of market stalls and eateries on site on the day.

Those seeking any further information are encouraged to go to hardenkitefestival.org or to make contact with the following people:

Ken McKay on (02) 6386 3526 and Email: hardenbearings@bigpond.com or Sarah Rowan on (02) 6386 2685 and Email: rowans1979@hotmail.com

And so all kite flyers may the wind be at your backs and for those who cannot make it this year, Saturday October 15 has already been decided as the date for 2016.

Entry to the whole event is by donation and this year the gate will be manned by the Harden Skate Park committee with all funds going towards the construction of the new Skate Park which will be located in Newson Park.