Our collaboration with the communities of Penrose, Bundanoon, Exeter, Burrawang, Avoca, Robertson, Colo Vale, Balmoral, Hill Top, Yerrinbool, Medway, Berrima, and Wingello, to bring planter boxes to the villages during Tulip Time, is something our village communities want to see continue for years to come.
Village Community Associations embraced the pilot program of hosting Tulip Time planter boxes supplied by Wingecarribee Shire Council. The bulbs and boxes were delivered during May and Council has since surveyed participating Associations about their experience.
All have expressed enthusiasm for hosting the planter boxes every year to better connect their villages to the Tulip Time celebrations.
“It’s brought a real sense of anticipation to the village community to see the bulbs sprouting in the heart of our village and we’d love to work with Council to construct a permanent planter box at the gateway to our village, so that we’re seen as a part of the festival for years to come,” says Steve Denford, from Medway Community Association.
Survey respondents told us they were pleased with the communication surrounding the planning and delivery of the boxes and bulbs. While they appreciated the quality and appeal of the planter boxes, some have suggested that a more permanent material than timber may be better suited to stand the test of time.
“What we set out to do with this initiative was to better connect our village communities to the popular Tulip Time festival, with a view to it becoming a Shire-wide activation,” says Council Administrator Mr Viv May. “Attracting visitors to the Southern Highlands from far and wide, Tulip Time is an important opportunity for our village businesses and community members to be part of.”
Council made all the required materials and bulbs available to the Community Associations eager to be involved in hosting planter boxes. “Enthusiastic feedback from all Village Associations involved in this pilot tells us that this is a concept they would like to see grow for years to come.” Mr May said.
Be sure to include a visit to our outlying villages during Tulip Time from September 19 to October 2, 2023 to enjoy the added charm the burst of colour will bring, and be part of re-connecting our Wingecarribee community.
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