What does community mean to you?
Is it about belonging to something bigger than yourself?
Supporting causes you’re passionate about?…
Or simply meeting amazing new people?…
Well, here at South Eastern Community Connect (SECC) we work hard to provide a safe place where people truly find that sense of belonging and purpose.
And that’s exactly what we’ll be doing this Saturday as we open our ‘home’ to you, the community, in Eastlakes Reserve.
We have a team of volunteers primed and ready to serve you on the day, as well as a stack of SECC staff who’ll make it a day to remember.
It’s been wonderful seeing it all come together, with stallholders, activities and special guests booked and finalised.
It’ll be an action-packed picnic for all ages on Saturday 9th November from 2pm, sponsored by Crown Group and Eastlakes Shopping Centre.
Please bring a gold coin donation (for entry) to help us raise much-needed funds for the valuable work of South Eastern Community Connect (www.secc.sydney) in the local community.
And just for you, we’ve put together a free guide with 19 great reasons to head to Eastlakes Reserve this weekend – enjoy!
** 1. High-energy performers to get you moving
If you haven’t yet heard of Junkyard Beats, then prepare to be amazed. Known for their dynamic rhythm shows, this group performs a series of high-energy routines that include body percussion, fire drumming, junk percussion, pyrotechnics and hilarious skits. Their show draws on inspiration from everyday life, the streets and the junkyard, and is filled with imagination, humour and a lot of rhythm.
In the hands of Junkyard Beats, ordinary household items are transformed into musical instruments that create a booty shaking, toe-tapping, electric atmosphere that makes you want to get up and move. The group often have booked-out shows throughout Australia from Sydney to Perth, so we’re very lucky to have them with us in Eastlakes Reserve this Saturday. Don’t miss out!
** 2. Giant bouncy fun
For only $5 each, the kids will love bouncing their way through the Mega Obstacle Course courtesy of supplier Big Fun. Be prepared for a bucket-load of adventure and excitement.
** 3. FREE Petting Zoo joy
Get to know a range of beautiful animals at our animal farm. Visiting furry friends will include alpacas, calves, lambs, goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens and ducks.
** 4. Tattoo creativity
Don’t miss your opportunity for a temporary tattoo from The Airbrush Guru. Not just for kids! Choose from a range of designs which reflect your unique personality.
** 5. Exotic street food
You won’t go hungry with a range of delectable treats from the Camanito Food Truck. Fusing South American street food styles with the best of Italian cuisine, your tastebuds are in for a treat.
** 6. Healthy ice cream!
It’s a pleasure to host Sydney’s first vegan ice cream van, serving coconut soft serve and espresso coffee. Whip Van Sprinkle’s menu of desserts is dairy-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free.
** 7. African passion
Using the healing effects of music, dance and drama, the Kwetu Culture performers will blow you away with their positive energy.
** 8. Gozleme joy
Why not sink your teeth into the traditional Turkish flatbread and pastry dish of gozleme, from the wonderful Fikoz Grill?
** 9. Our future stars
Enjoy a performance from Stars Talent Schools in a special line-up right on 2pm. This local performing arts school trains young people in singing, dancing and drama.
** 10. Inspiring tunes
You’ll love the sweet beats of the Mascot Wesley Uniting Church band. Why not kick back and enjoy the talent from some of our locals?
** 11. Coffee essentials
Did someone say coffee? We’ll keep you well-supplied on the day thanks to the La Caffina Mobile Coffee Van so you can stay awake for the movie!
** 12. Spiral potatoes
The Tornado Potatoes and Corn from Mr Kernal are sure to be popular on the day. If you haven’t tried ‘chips on a stick’, this is your opportunity. Or if you’d prefer, there’s fresh corn for a healthier option. Why not give them a whirl?
** 13. Pottery perfection
You won’t want to go home without a piece of beautiful pottery from KMF Collections. These stunning creations by artist Kathy Forrest are a labour of love, and you’ll be able to browse the complete collection on the day. Kathy is an interior designer with a passion for unique, organic, sustainable products and she’ll be showcasing individual items made with passion and soul.
** 14. Greek experiences
The Greek Community of Mascot and District embraces their culture through both dance and language. They encourage young Greek-Australians to celebrate their heritage and keep the culture alive through the generations. Get your OPAs ready and dance The Zorba.
** 15. Group fitness fun
We’re excited to welcome the team from Tier 1 Training who will take us through a range of exercises on the day, including Yoga stretches designed to calm the mind.
** 16. Snow Patrol, The Beatles and Jason Mraz covers by Simon Laird
While he’s traditionally an Irish ballad singer playing gigs from Sydney to San Fran, Simon Laird will entertain the crowds with covers of music by such artists from Snow Patrol through to Jason Mraz and The Beatles this weekend. Enjoy his unique vocal talents from 3.15pm at the main stage.
** 17. Art installation
Two of our staff members will be using recycled clothing to create a collaborative art installation involving you – yes, you! Join Rachel and Michael under the pagoda from 4pm.
** 18. Gardening peace
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When did you last sink your hands into some soil? It might be time to test out your green thumb and have some fun with our Community Garden Project from 3.30pm.
** 19. Time to floss
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Whether you’re young – or young at heart – you’ll love the delicious range of flavoured fairy floss options on display, including glow fairy floss, bagged fairy floss, and fairy dust.
** Win (or give) great prizes
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On the day we’ll be running a raffle with some lovely prizes, such as a one-hour massage from Selph Health Studios, an exercise physiology session with Mia’s Health, and a concert-size Mahalo Ukulele from Prestige Music. We’d like to extend the invitation to other small businesses to donate a prize and be featured in our prize list on the day. This is great exposure for your business in the local area, and a practical way to give back to your community. Can you help with the donation of a $50-100 voucher or prize item? Call Alison on 8338 8506 or email me (mailto:commsmanager@secc.sydney?subject=I%20can%20help) before Wednesday morning if you can.
** Hat, cash, and sunnies!
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Before you head out the door on Saturday, don’t forget to bring a gold coin donation for entry to the event, plus $5 for the obstacle course and any other amusements 🙂
** Keep in the loop
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Please register on Eventbrite for updates on the day, and follow along on our Facebook page.