Spring Carnival Celebrates Community, Culture and Connection

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Written By Karen Bleakley

A day of free family fun is set to bring people together while celebrating the diverse and welcoming community that makes Moreton Bay such a special place. 

Held as part of Welcoming Week, Encircle Pine Rivers Neighbourhood Centre’s fourth annual Spring Carnival on Friday, 25 September will celebrate the region’s cultural diversity and encourage people from all backgrounds to connect, share experiences and feel welcome. 

Encircle CEO Barb Power OAM said providing free community events had become increasingly important as families continued to face cost-of-living pressures. 

“Free and local has never been more important with family budgets stretched tighter than ever,” Ms Power said. “That’s why our free community days are always such a great way to occupy the young, and young at heart, during school holidays.” 

The carnival will feature face painting, games, a petting zoo, cultural activities including henna, arts and craft, community stalls and live performances. Visitors will also be able to enjoy a range of food and treats, including burgers, hot dogs, fairy floss, sno cones and popcorn. 

The event will also introduce a community book store, where visitors can pick up a new book or two in exchange for a gold coin or pantry donation item. These donations will be used to support those in need in the local community. 

“Reading is one way to help the community come together, to learn, share and play,” Ms Power said.  

The carnival will also include hourly prize draws through a passport competition, with prizes up for grabs throughout the day. 

Ms Power said everyone was welcome at the Spring Carnival. 

“Come along to connect with your local community and enjoy activities, food, and entertainment minus the financial outlay,” she said.  

Parking is limited at the centre, however, a shuttle bus will operate from a nearby location, with details to be confirmed on the Encircle Pine Rivers Neighbourhood Centre Facebook page. The centre is also easily accessible by public transport, with a bus stop directly outside and Lawnton train station less than a 10-minute walk away. 

Entry is free, but registration is required for catering and planning purposes. Book your spots here.

Spring Carnival 

  • Friday, 25 September, 10am-2pm 
  • Encircle Pine Rivers Neighbourhood Centre 
  • 865 Gympie Road, Lawnton

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