Star inspired: Wintersong raises Tenterfield spirits

Tenterfield Wintersong’s week of music and art celebrations reached a high point, with a weekend carnival parade lifting community spirits.
From June 18 to 26, perfect weather and plenty of music helped brighten the town atmosphere. Local venues got into the swing, staging gigs, or adding novelty initiatives in stores.
Many businesses noted a marked increase in trade – those who made efforts for the occasion yielded the most benefits.
Inspired by the legacy of songman Peter Allen, tribute events included concerts and Boy from Oz screenings, honouring the locally born star.
Young performers got a chance to showcase their talent with busking opportunities downtown. Organisers wish to thank all musicians and per-formers who stepped up for the occasion and to the Tenterfield Shire Council and other agencies (SES, Police, RTA) and volunteers who helped make the parade and Bandstand event possible.
Up to 20 community groups and businesses joined the parade, with a variety of floats. The CWA (celebrating their 90th anniversary) won hearts by handing out knitted teddy bears to children.
Dance squads like Granite Belt YMCA, Tenterfield Wintersong and Physical Culture were noted as popular but were pipped by the Show Society and Tenterfield Star as crowd pleasers.
After much deliberation, the Best Float award, donated by Klas Accounting, went to the Borderline Arts Van for their unique entry.
Organisers say there were many great efforts and regret not being able to mention all the standouts.
An incentive for business and service providers to get into the swing of the song fest, a Carnival Spirit Prize sponsored by Tenterfield and District Business Association (TADBA), offered a spa holiday package for the most enterprising business owner or manger.
The Tenterfield Bakery took out this award. With a history of notable window dressing, they gained extra points for their cupcake parade float and themed menu items (piano key biscuits, Peter Allen Pie and maraca shaker lamingtons).
The Tenterfield Fish was also highly commended for their all-out efforts, including a country styled saddler theme, staff costumes, instore music and display.
Also noted for their great show of spirit, staff at Kurrajong Downes Vineyard delighted patrons with their Wizard of Oz-themed menu and costumes, while Sunday lunch diners were entertained by Stanthorpe’s easy listening duo Ripple.
Wintersong presented their first carnival in 2010 and the dramatic growth in operation has surprised many.
Yet carnival president Gail Galloway said the organisation’s strong focus on talent building and performing arts for youth was a key focus.
The community came out in force to support their young people. Streets were lined with wellwishers for the parade and enthusiastic audiences attended the concerts and busking gigs.