Kilsyth Festival

As part of this group we are keen to attract people to the reserve and to encourage community participation. The 'Chelodina Festival' was first delivered in 2014 to encourage the local community to live a healthy, environmental and sustainable way through showcasing the Elizabeth Bridge Reserve. The significance of the name 'Chelodina' is the scientific name for the Long Neck Turtle which is found

in the water bodies of the reserve. It is hoped that the image of the turtle will become the mascot of Kilsyth and attract further support for this festival. The Festival is targeted at improving and promoting public health and wellbeing of our local residents through encouraging physical activity (such as walking and cycling), mental stimulation and also allows for formal and informal social interaction. The Festival also aims at educating the local community about our natural local flora and fauna, so resident can experience unique animals such as the Long Neck Turtle and experience a thriving open space. Finally, the Festival supports and encourages environmentally sustainable businesses and activities across the Yarra Ranges via encouraging people to shop, play and eat locally. Our festival is designed to Engage Communities via providing a healthy place for healthy people to enjoy the natural environment and strengthen our local economies by environmentally sustainable activities.