By Mikayla van Loon
The much loved Halloween on the Green has had to bow out again for 2021, leaving organisers disappointed for a second year in a row.
Hosted by the Philanthropic Collective, the festival invites people to dress up in their best and most Halloween-esque costumes and explore how death is celebrated by different religions and cultures.
Festival creator Andrew Fillip-Gautier said due to the ongoing pandemic, the uncertainty and a funding shortfall the festival cannot go ahead.
“It comes as a huge blow to the organising committee who has worked behind the scenes on alternate planning protocols and explored many avenues to try and host the event,” he said.
After last year’s cancellation, Mr Fillip-Gautier had big plans for this year’s festival which is held at the Ferny Creek Recreation Reserve in Sassafras.
Mr Fillip-Gautier said there was a huge entertainment line-up of local entertainers, stall holders, rides operators, venue managers, local schools, and community groups.
Meant to be gracing the main stage was Charlie Bedford, The Bean Project, Daisy West and for the very first time, rock royalty, Clare Moore and Dave Graney.
An array of activities had also been planned including free carnival rides, a trick or treat trail, Sim Sala Bim, Circus Ruccis, Day of the Dead stilt walkers and roving Fun Arts Mariachi band.
Mr Fillip-Gautier said all major sponsors and supporters, along with local businesses who are the financial backbone of the event have pledged their support for 2022.
The group remain committed to building on the body of work already accomplished as they turn their attention to ensure Halloween on the Green 2022 will be bigger and better than ever before with loads of extra surprises in store.
“It remains our greatest hope that we will be able to host the event once again in 2022 where the true spirit of community inclusion for all will finally be at one once again. Happy Halloween to all,” Mr Fillip-Gautier said.
The Philanthropic Collective would like to acknowledge the unwavering support from Yarra Ranges Council, Le Pine Funerals, Blood Bank Victoria, Victoria Police and Fletchers Olinda to name just a few.
