Lawrence Community Fundraising Inc. has announced the music and workshops line up for Lawrence Loves… a free community arts festival planned for Saturday May 25.

Headlining the music bill is local group Hats Off, an indie rock outfit whose journey of self-discovery through the pub circuit, countless backyard gigs and festivals, has resulted in an enviable reputation. 

Joining them on the bill is another well-known Clarence Valley name, Pam Hata, who has co-programmed the music stage with artists associated with her online performance platform the Original Sound lounge. Songwriters in the Round will feature musicians Geoff Paull, Charlie Davis and Sarah McKenna, while dynamic bluesman Sam Buckley performs after the lantern parade and what promises to be dazzling show by Mallika: Goddess of the Flame.

The sunset slot belongs to a beguiling duo originating from Lawrence itself. Visions of a Nomad perform a highly original and eclectic mix of jazz fusion and classically influenced world music, featuring didgeridoo, drums, keyboard and guitar.

There will be plenty of activities to occupy families and children. The local Wahgungurry Alpaca Stud is bringing some of its youngest alpacas along for a ‘Pat a Paca’ session. A selection of Giant Wooden Games will keep kids occupied, while Mums and Dads have options of participating in a Wattle Ball workshop run by community artist Pamela Denise and making a lantern with the chirpy Phill Relf of Ikara Celebratory Events.

The Lawrence Art Group are expected to mount an exhibition and stall at the event while the Lawrence RFS will be running a sausage BBQ all afternoon, plus around dinner time, enjoy a Bush Tucker BBQ courtesy of Loving Spoonful Productions and The Hungry Gooris.

Highlight of the event will undoubtedly be the lantern parade at 6pm, with activities and performances kicking off at 2pm and finishing up around 9pm.

Head to lawrencecommunityfundraising.com.au for detailed event information.

Phil Nicholas