Jazzed up jumpers go aboreal

THE wool is coming out of the closest as preparations hit full speed for this year’s Jumpers and Jazz in July in Warwick, from 17-27.
Easily one of Queensland’s quirkiest winter festivals, it is a platform for the arts and a celebration of all that is wonderful about winter.
Warwick Tourism and Events CEO Tracy Vellacott said the festival’s success ws due to the community embracing the chill and the opportunity to be inspired by vibrant music and art.
First started back in 2004 the event has since grown and expanded.
The number of trees “wrapped in art” has more than doubled with more than 120 artworks going on display around the CBD during the event.
This year’s entries have included local schools and community groups who have been busy preparing their “a tree jumper”.
Organisers have also received entries from textile artists from all over Australia. Every year a beautifully knitted entry arrives from Lincolnshire in England.
The Jazz program is driven by the many venues in Warwick, Allora, Killarney and Stanthorpe that are committed to creating a quality music experience for our visitors.
Musicians perform Dixieland, Swing and Mainstream Jazz throughout the festival with an abundance of free entertainment at Saturday’s Party on Palmerin and Sunday’s Picnic in the Park.
“This year’s program features everything our much-loved festival is famous for, with some exciting new elements thrown in,” Tracy said.
“Empire Swing will have festival goers on their feet, giving them the chance to master the art of swing dancing while Warwick Turf Club’s Jumpers and Jazz Race Day joins the program to offer a stylish, musical afternoon at the track.
“And the little community of Allora will be demonstrating artisans in a Meet the Makers day.”