By Greg Hardwick
Nestled in a picturesque valley, the historic town of Wollombi is usually serene, perhaps a little too slow for many city dwellers.
But every year the town is invaded by crowds of people, from Newcastle and Sydney and just about any place on the globe. The beat of African drums, or the quaint melody of the bamboo flute, transforms the town into the Wollombi Folk Festival.
The mix of music and dance creates a surreal environment, and against a backdrop of forested mountains, Wollombi creates a lasting impression.
The festival starts off the season of folk festivals, which blossom with the onset of spring. This year the Wollombi event will cover five days, September 23-27.
The first day will feature films, and there will be theatre on the following night. A blues tent and street performers will provide music, while the Troubadour Café, poetry and debates will provide something for everyone.
Workshops will include belly dancing, drumming and a bush food workshop for those interested in native tucker. There will be the Kids Fest for the children, eight speakers will appear in the "Enviro-Tent", and Alan Glover's Comedy Show is sure to be a great event.
Dave Burgess has lived in Wollombi for the last 18 months and has attended most of the five folk festivals held so far. He says, "The special thing is that the village becomes the festival; various buildings around the town such as the church and antique barn become venues".
"The major highlight of this year's festival will be the indigenous program", Burgess said. "With what's occurring in the nation on a political level, it's vital the community can come together, learn about each other and have a good time without being stifled by divisive debate."
The indigenous program includes talks relating to environmental issues and culminates in a corroboree on the last night. "The corroboree last year was an enormous success", Burgess said.
"Last year I organised the Enviro-Tent, and this year I've taken on a bit more. This is the case for many people, all coming together to make the festival happen."
This attitude is what makes Wollombi Folk Festival so special: a community opening its heart, coming together.
So if you're tired of battling the cold months, Wollombi Folk Festival in September could provide a warm antidote.
For further information, e-mail <greghardwick@hotmail.com>.