Record crowd savours taste of Italy

Record crowds savoured a little taste of Italy at the Harvey Harvest Festival on Sunday.

More than 14,000 people streamed through the gates at Snell Park and Hayward Street to be amazed by the activities on offer.

Popular South West four-piece The Times headlined the festival, playing a blend of hits from the 1960s, ’80s and ’90s as well as some Italian favourites.

The Mediterranean theme was continued by fellow musical acts The Ravioli Brothers, The Reno Brothers and Owen the Fiddler, whose melodies combined to transport festivalgoers to southern Italy.

Ivan Solomon’s sheepdogs and their flock proved popular as they wound their way through an appreciative crowd.

The Grape Stomping Championship was also well supported, with a raucous crowd cheering on a fast and furious final. Face painting, a Royal Australian Navy life raft and Old McDonald’s travelling petting farm kept the kids busy while the adults took in the vintage cars and machinery on display.

Festival coordinator Monique Warnock said the event continued to grow in popularity because locals and visitors could enjoy a free, entertaining day out.

“Kids can get their faces painted and get up close to animals for free, while adults can taste local produce and enjoy entertainment all day,” she said.

“Not only do people come back time after time, but our stallholders book their bays months in advance and once again we sold out.”