Lynne Mowbray The Jacaranda trees have started to bloom signalling the start of Grafton’s annual Jacaranda Festival – Australia’s longest running floral festival. The 2015 Jacaranda Queen candidates Kirsten Knox, Leah Wallace, Charlotte White and Kahlia Payne have been busy readying themselves for the big event with raffles and fundraisers. This weekend is the start of the official events with the Jacaranda “Spot It” competition, which runs from Saturday, October 24 until Thursday, November 5. Grafton business houses displaying the “Spot It” arrow encourage the public to spot the item which does not belong, in their window display. There are great prizes up for grabs and entry forms can be obtained from Grafton newsagencies, Jacaranda festival office, or head to the website. Entries close this Thursday 22nd at 5pm, for entries to this years Bendigo Bank Beautiful Baby Competition which will be held in Market Square on Saturday, October 24 from 8am – 9.30. The Jacaranda Children’s party will also take place on Saturday, October 24, in Market Square from 9am – 11.30am and children are encouraged to dress up as their favourite character. The Jacaranda Party Princess and Prince will be chosen at this event – and children aged between 8 – 11 years old will be in the running to be this year’s title. The Jacaranda Flower Girl and Page Boy will also be chosen from children aged between 4 – 7 years old. Culture on the Clarence will take place in Skinner Street, South Grafton on Sunday, October 25, from 9am – 3pm. Come along and experience local talent and the cultural diversity of the Clarence Valley with entertainers, food stalls, displays and community groups. It’s bound to be fun for all the family. Gateway Lifestyle Jacaranda Ball will be held on Friday, October 30 at the South Grafton Ex-Servicemens Club from 6pm. This year’s theme is Black Tie and Diamonds – don’t forget to books your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. For more information contact: www.jacarandafestival.org.au or find us on Facebook.