Festival Info
All the fun of the fair comes to Kilsyth on Sunday when the Kilsyth Festival makes a welcome return to Elizabeth Bridge Reserve in Durham Road after two years’ pandemic lay-off.
About us
The Festival is a collaboration between the Kilsyth Community Action Group and Friends of Elizabeth Bridge Reserve, with the benefit of a generous community grant from Yarra Ranges Council. Friends of Elizabeth Bridge Reserve is an active environmental group protecting and preserving Elizabeth Bridge Reserve (Kilsyth). As part of this group, we are keen to attract people to the reserve and encourage community participation.
The 'Chelodina Festival' was first delivered in 2014 to encourage the local community to live in a healthy, environmentally sustainable way by showcasing the Elizabeth Bridge Reserve. The significance of the name 'Chelodina' is the scientific name for the Long Neck Turtle which is found in the water bodies of the reserve. It is hoped that the image of the turtle will become the mascot of Kilsyth and attract further support for this festival.
The Festival is targeted at improving and promoting the public health and well-being of our local residents through encouraging physical activity (such as walking and cycling), and mental stimulation and also allows for formal and informal social interaction. The Festival also aims at educating the local community about our natural local flora and fauna, so residents can experience unique animals such as the Long Neck Turtle and experience a thriving open space. Finally, the Festival supports and encourages environmentally sustainable businesses and activities across the Yarra Ranges by encouraging people to shop, play and eat locally.
Our festival is designed to Engage Communities by providing a healthy place for healthy people to enjoy the natural environment and strengthen our local economies through environmentally sustainable activities.