It’s kites ahoy as a Geelong children’s therapy and disability services organisation holds its fourth annual kite festival next weekend.
Held at Rippleside Park from 11am to 2pm on Sunday, October 6, the Kids+ Kite Festival brings together people of all abilities in a celebration of fun and colour.
The event, which has previously drawn crowds of 1000 or more, is open to anyone who would like to enjoy flying a kite in a festive, community atmosphere.
Kids+ marketing manager Sharon Gibbons said the festival was created as an event for everybody, regardless of ability
“Attendance is growing each year and 2024 looks to be the biggest yet,” Ms Gibbons said.
“Seeing our diverse community come together to fly a kite and grab a snag brings great joy to our team. Inclusion is second nature to us at Kids+ – we don’t give it a second thought, and we hope to inspire others to invite the concept of inclusion into their lives too.”
Ms Gibbons said the 2023 event saw the launch of the Kite Festival Ambassador Program where kids are championed with promoting the festival.
“2024 has seen a team of no less than 15 ambassadors take the lead in promoting the festival to their families, friends, and school,” she said.
“The efforts have been remarkable, particularly with some children who communicate using Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) devices who have presented at school assemblies.
“To see those children move outside their comfort zones, when typically they may not have, is powerful.”
Kites are available to purchase at kidsplus.org.au with all proceeds helping the organisation in its mission to support young people and families.
