Grafton Jacaranda Festival - Official Program 2022

I welcome all visitors and Clarence Valley residents to the 2022 Grafton Jacaranda Festival. It is wonderful to see the festival back in full swing after the last two challenging years. Congratulations to the committed and passionate festival organisers.

There are the favourite events – the Jacaranda Ball, Royal Party Crowning, Float Parade, Venetian Carnival and the fun and laughter of Jacaranda Thursday. There are also some newer events happening at Market Square, including the River Dreaming Day of Culture which will showcase traditional Aboriginal dance groups and local performing artists, and the Valley Schools Show.

A major annual delight is the Illumination of our beautiful Jacaranda Trees by night. See Park will be a magical place to be this festival, with not only the trees illuminated in all their glory, but with free entertainment each weekend. Clarence Valley Council and the Jacaranda Festival organisers have together created this delightful precinct, something we are all very proud of and eager to share with you.

Please thoroughly enjoy the 2022 Jacaranda Festival!

Grafton Jacaranda Festival 2022 welcomes you all!

After the stop…start…stop of the festival during the last 2 years due to COVID, floods and fires we have planned a cracker of a festival this year, with all the trimmings.

The dedicated members of the committee, volunteers, sponsors and government partners have been working tirelessly together behind curtains to ensure we make up for lost experiences and create something very special for the community and visitors alike in 2022.

I thank and applaud their effort, commitment and passion towards the festival and community.

Here is the program of all events and entertainment for the Grafton Jacaranda Festival 2022.

A massive thank you to our amazing Festival Manager, Mark Blackadder for piecing together this extravaganza of entertainment, food, art and crazy fun for all.

If it’s a Jacaranda Long Lunch for the Melbourne Cup, Jacaranda Thursday Craziness, Jacaranda Royal Party Crowning or just sitting on a purple carpet of petals underneath an exquisite Jacaranda Tree… the Grafton Jacaranda Festival is the place to be.

Happy Jacaranda!

Desan Padayachee

President

Grafton Jacaranda Festival

Ian Tiley - Mayor Clarence Valley Council

The idea for a festival celebrating Grafton’s jacaranda trees had been proposed sporadically over many decades in the early 1900’s. At a time when the world was emerging from the great depression an idea to attract tourists and visitors to Grafton began to emerge. In December 1934 newly elected councillor, Edward Chataway, proposed a festival for the following year. Gathering like-minded civic leaders around him, and with single minded persistence, Councillor Chataway made the first festival a reality in 1935. Held over two nights in pound street, it included maypole dancing, a float parade and community singing and dancing. The early festivals were based on the Cornish flora festival, held annually to this day in Helston, United Kingdom.

Over the decades the festival has always been a reflection of the culture and the expectations of the time. Sacred concerts, candlelight vigils, raft races, school displays, rodeos, floral window displays, bathtub regattas, community dancing and gay taxi competitions were all popular events of their era. Incidentally, the only original event left from 1935 is the Float Procession (even it was cancelled in 1942 and 1943 due to wartime petrol rationing and in 2020 due to COVID).

As visitor numbers increased over the years so did the emergence of numerous affiliate events. Throughout the 1960s, 70s and 80s a proliferation of sporting and cultural events all played a role in filling out the program of activities. Additionally, community based craft groups, markets and organisations joined in to showcase their skills and passions over the festival.

By 2014 the festival had grown into a marathon 16 day epic. This year our festival is a 10 day showcase of the unique, the quirky and the beautiful. It’s a time for our guests to experience, in all its diversity, everything that’s great about the regional lifestyle.

The festival will always evolve reflecting our community and culture. We are returning to what Councillor Chataway originally intended the festival to be. It is a shared experience between locals and our guests, the celebration of the jacaranda trees.

Image: 1941 - Grafton Public School

Partners

We get really excited about Jacaranda trees, particularly at this time of year. We love them so much we planted over 1700 of them (not all at once though). Contemplate life while sitting under one. They love getting in selfies too. If you get the urge deep down, feel free to dance around one. If a jacaranda blossom lands on your head, count yourself lucky. You have received a “blossom blessing”.

Action Coaches See Park Shuttle Hop On –Hop Off Bus | 5 Stops

Operates from Sat 29 Oct to Sat 5 Nov. 9.00am to 4.00pm daily

Cost: Gold coin donation per person

The Action Coaches See Park Shuttle will operate daily during the festival from 10.00am to 4pm with a local guide and stop at the following locations:

• Market Square Bus Stop –Prince Street

• The Grafton Regional Gallery | Tourist Information Centre –Fitzroy Street

• Jacaranda Ave sign –Pound Street

• See Park –Turf Street

• Fig Tree Avenue –Breimba Street

Open Garden Bus Tour

Mon 30 Oct, Wed 2 Oct, and Fri 4 Nov Departs Market Square Bus Stop, Prince Street @ 9.00amReturns 4.00pm $85 per person, for tickets visit www.jacarandafestival.com/tickets

A full day guided mini bus tour takes you to gardens in and around Grafton and includes morning tea at Remember When Cottage, lunch at Grafton District Golf Club and afternoon tea at Vines @ 139. For your enjoyment, we have a variety of different styles of gardens on display and a selection of private gardens you will only be able to view on this tour. You may even see a Kangaroo or two.

Daily from Sat 29 Octo to Sat 5 Nov Commences at Saraton Theatre, 99 Prince Street $20 per person, for tickets visit www.jacarandafestival.com/tickets

Walking Tour Wander under some of Grafton’s glorious jacaranda trees in Jacaranda Avenue and past a few of our beautiful federation houses and the historical business precinct. This gentle amble through Grafton includes See Park and a famous purple ice cream at I Scream to finish. The walking component is approximately 2.5km on level walking ground. A hat and comfy shoes are recommended.

KEY Walking Tour Shuttle Route Shuttle Stop Great spot to take some photos

SHOWGROUND

MARKET SQUARE

Events

Bendigo Bank Snap Share Win

Instagram may get you likes, but now with the right pic you can get cash as well! Prizes awarded to the photos that best capture the spirit of the Grafton Jacaranda festival. Post and hash tag your best pictures to WIN!

Jacaranda Spot It Competition

Spot It competition is a local institution. Fun for the whole family. Look in each participating shop’s window for what does not belong (their Spot It). There are cash prize draw for whoever can find them all.

JACA HQ – The Jacaranda Festival Merchandise and Information Shop

Call in to check out our range of Jacaranda Festival merchandise and for information, maps and programs about the festival.

Action Coaches See Park Shuttle Hop On – Hop Off Bus – 5 Stops

• Market Square Bus Stop – Prince Street

• The Grafton Regional Gallery | Tourist Information Centre Jacaranda Ave sign – Pound Street

• See Park – Turf Street

• Fig Tree Avenue – Breimba Street

Walking Tour

Wander under some of Grafton’s glorious jacaranda trees in Jacaranda Avenue and past a few of our beautiful federation houses and the historical business precinct. This gentle amble through Grafton includes See Park and a famous purple ice cream at I Scream to finish. The walking component is approximately 2.5km on level walking ground. A hat and comfy shoes are recommended.

Jacaranda Raffle

Tickets available from JACA HQ.

Prizes drawn: Approximately 8pm, Saturday 5 November at Market Square Party in the Park Stage.

1st Prize = $300.00

2nd Prize = $200.00

For competition details refer advertisement on opposite page

Grafton, South Grafton and Ulmarra CBD

Pick up and entry form from JACA HQ during the Festival or complete a digital version available atjacarandafestival.com/Events/Spot-It

Monday to Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm

Saturday 9.00am – 4.00pm

Sunday 10.00am – 2.00pm

(Hours may vary on weekends)

Shop L1-3 “The Link” Grafton Shoppingworld. Prince Street, Grafton

See Park Shuttle operates by a gold coin donation per person

Daily from Saturday 29 Oct - Sat 5 Nov

Commences at Saraton Theatre, 99 Prince Street

$20 per person, for tickets visit www.jacarandafestival.com/tickets

Prizes

1st Prize: $3000 cash

2nd Prize: $1000 Gift Voucher

3rd Prize: $500 Gift Voucher

@graftonjacarandafestival

& tag @graftonjacarandafestival in a photo from a2022 Grafton Jacaranda

#graftonjacarandafestival #bendigobank

following

All Festival Events

Grafton Gem Club

The club was formed in the Clarence Valley in 1965 and started the Gem and Mineral shows in 1966. The club colours are mauve and purple representing the Jacaranda’s of Grafton. The exhibition will be open from 9am to 5pm each day of the festival and will feature gem-stone cutting and faceting, glass bead making and silversmith demonstrations. There will be a major prize raffle as well as lucky dips for the children. Unique gemstones, crystal and mineral specimens will be on display as well as a range of handcrafted jewellery available for purchase at excellent prices.

Jacaranda Embroidery Group

Jacaranda Embroidery Group have pleasure in participating in this year’s festival, presenting their exhibition. Theme; “Sweet Treasures”. A first, the inclusion of a display of exquisite embroidery by featured embroiderer, Kim Stapley who has been a member for many years. Raffle, 1st prize is a Candlewick embroidered quilt. Raffle tickets will be available at venue.

Clarence Valley Woodworkers Assoc.

A stunning exhibition of around 2000 items handcrafted by members of the Clarence Valley Woodworkers Association and local school students.  The exhibition also includes a photographic history of the timber industry on the Northern Rivers.  Skilled craftsmen  demonstrate woodworking techniques.  Many displayed items are for sale.

Grafton Art Club

Jacaranda Art Exhibition is an annual event held by members of the Grafton Art Club, with locally sponsored prizes in Adult and Youth sections, including the major prize sponsored by Bendigo Community Bank. Acquisitions are selected by the Grafton Regional Gallery and Westlawn Finance. Morning and afternoon tea available.

Remember When Cottage Museum

Remember When is a privately owned museum, just a short, picturesque drive from Grafton. It is located at 28 Eatonsville Road, Waterview  Heights. It is filled with numerous displays, photographs, local artworks and gorgeous animals. The relocated cottage, built over one hundred years ago came from central Grafton. It has been fully restored and is fully accessible for all to enjoy. Come take a selfie with our own Remember When Jacaranda Queen! Refreshments, vintage and retro clothing and homewares, are available for purchase.

When: Sat 29 Oct - Sat 5 Nov 9.00am - 5.00pm

Where: The Barn, Grafton Showground 208 Prince Street, Grafton

Cost: Adults gold coin donation

Children FREE

When: Sat 29 Oct - Sat 5 Nov Wed to Sat - 9.30am - 4.00pm Sun to Tue 11.00am - 3.00pm

Where: Christchurch Cathedral Hall Duke Street, Grafton Cost: $4.00 per person

When: Sat 29 Oct - Sun 6 Nov 10.00am - 5.00pm daily 10.00am - 1.00pm (Sun 6 Nov)

Where: South Grafton Ex-Services Club Wharf Street, South Grafton Cost: $2.00 per person

When: Tue 1 Nov - Sat 5 Nov 9.00am - 5.00pm

Where: The Barn, Grafton Showground 208 Prince Street, Grafton Cost: $3.00 pp

Children under 12 - FREE

When: Sat 29 Oct - Sun 6 Nov Call to book - 0423 280 141

Where: 28 Eatonsville Road, Waterview Heights

Cost: Adults $8.00 Senior $7.00

Children (4-12yrs) $4.00

PURPLE ARMY WE COULDN’T DO IT WITHOUT YOU Festival Volunteers

We couldn’t run without you. We value every one of you because you bring your varied skills and passions to make Jacaranda great.

There are the obsessed volunteers where every waking moment is consumed by thoughts and deeds for the Festival. There are volunteers happy to sit at a raffle table for a couple of hours a week. During the Festival there are volunteers helping at merchandise stands, hosting bus tours, setting up, bumping out, moving equipment, dancing, helping backstage, performing front of house and organising events behind the scenes.

One thing we all agree on is that we want everyone to have an amazing experience.

Look out for the festival volunteers in their PURPLE ARMY t-shirts and wearing their volunteer lanyards.

Grafton Jacaranda Festival encourages you to:

REDUCE your waste by using multi-use cups, bottles and containers.

ü Keep Cups are a great way to have your morning coffee

ü Try not to buy single use plastic water bottles or bags

REUSE drink and food containers whenever and wherever you can

REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE RETURN

ü There are water fill stations in Market Square and Memorial Park for you to fill your BYO bottles.

ü If you need a straw consider using a reusable one.

RECYCLE all your waste through proper use of the many recycle bins placed throughout the festival.

ü Only put recyclable products in the yellow bins.

ü Encourage your friends and family to do the same as well.

RETURN and earn.

ü Return and earn bins will be placed in the Volkers Bar yard at licensed events for all purchased cans, glass and plastic bottles to be returned for recycling.

ü It’s cool to be kind.

Open Gardens

Scheffer House Museum

190 Fitzroy Street, Grafton

Remember When Cottage Museum

28 Eastonsville Road, Waterview Heights

Feast your eyes on our lovely Cottage Garden with a great variety of flowering annuals & perennials. Take a stroll up the lavender lane to our herb garden full of scents and memories around the old foundation stones. Sit on our garden bench and watch bees, birds and butterflies. Take home a lovely memory. Open from 10.00am - 4.00pm daily during the Grafton Jacaranda Festival

"Remember When Cottage is a hundred year old house relocated to a large block . It is filled with delightful displays of memorabilia, depicting life as it was decades ago . There is even a Retro room , displaying the crazy fashions and homewares of the 60’s and 70’s

Lovely gardens have been created to stroll through. Feeding our gorgeous animals is also a pleasurable experience. There will be a Jacaranda theme with mannequins dressed to represent the Royal Party. Devonshire tea will be served on our vintage fine China. Phone Mike & Linda Webb for a booking: 0423280141"

Grafton Regional Gallery

158 Fitzroy Street, Grafton

Grafton District Golf Club

425 Bent Street, South Grafton

Clarence Valley Conservatorium

8 Villiers Street, Grafton

Vines Café

139 Fitzroy Street, Grafton

This heritage cottage garden was created when the Gallery opened in 1988. The garden incorporates features including camellia bushes, the holly tree and climbing thornless rose. The Friends of the Gallery gained funding to reconstruct the front western garden in 2003 and tended the garden for three years. Now each week volunteers contribute time towards maintatining the garden for all. Open 10.00am to 4.00pm Daily.

On entering the Golf Course the first garden you see on your right is abundant with native shrubs & groundcovers.The grass trees are the main attraction of this small garden. Continuing on to the car park, this too is filled with native trees & shrubs. A wide variety of exotic as well as native plants make up the gardens surrounding the clubhouse itself. A must see is the view from the verandah, a great place to sit, sip & just relax!

Enhancing the streetscape, the Clarence Valley Conservatorium informal cottage style gardens are lovingly designed and maintained by volunteers. Follow the garden through the breeze-way to the back of the cottage that showcases a living wall of greenery and blossoms. Our gardens are adorned and scented with a variety of flowering shrubs, annuals and perennials.

A beautiful Natural and cottage still garden with some edibles used regally in the restaurant with a back car park lavender garden. A garden worth walking through or sitting in, over looking our cafe. Come and enjoy a coffee, breakfast or lunch in our beautiful garden.

FRIDAY 28 OCTOBER

River Dreaming – A Day Of Culture

The Aboriginal nations of the Clarence Valley, the Bundjalung, Yaegl and Gumbaynggirr people, come together to share with visitors a very special day to celebrate culture with music, dance and community to open the 2022 Grafton Jacaranda Festival.

Coco’s Lunch With Drummergirl

Coco’s Lunch are pioneers in the composition and performance of contemporary world/jazz vocal repertoire that is now performed by vocal ensembles and choirs globally: South Indian vocal percussion, high vibration poetry and skin-tight harmonies are the hallmarks of this extraordinary music.

Joining Coco’s Lunch for the first time onstage is brilliant drummer Simone Lang (aka Drummergirl) who has studied with some of West Africa’s finest exponents of the tradition including Mohamed ‘Bangourake’ Bangoura, Lamine ‘Lopez’ Soumah of Percussion de Guinee, Mamady Keita and Famoudou Konate. Presented in association with Musica Viva Australia and Clarence Valley Conservatorium

SATURDAY 29 OCTOBER

Bendigo Bank Parade Of Youth & Banner Compeition

A parade of youth will proceed down Prince Street to Market Square from schools and community groups across the Clarence Valley proudly carrying banners they have designed inspired by this years’ theme – Icons of Jacaranda. Judging of the banners will take place on Market Square stage with three category winners announced; small school, large school and community group.

Jacaranda Kids Carnival

Dandyman - Circus & Comedy Family Show

Join world class, five star, award winning physical comedian and circus impressario Daniel Oldaker ‘DANDYMAN’ in this not to be missed knock your socks off show of unbelievable proportions. An action packed fun-filled journey of ridiculousness, complete with circus tricks, comedy bits and moments of unbridled fun and sillyness.

St Andrew’s Christian School 2022 Jacaranda Fair

St. Andrew’s Christian School is holding its annual Jacaranda Fair on Saturday 29 October from 10am to 2pm in their school grounds at 84 Washpool Road Clarenza. There will be inflatable rides, market stalls, bbq lunch, entertainment, displays and a giant fundraising auction which commences at 12 noon. It’s a great day out for all the family!

When: 10.00am

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 7.30pm

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 9.00am

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 10.00am

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 10.00am to 2.00pm

Where: St Andrew’s Christian School 84 Washpool Road, Clarenza (via Grafton) Cost: FREE

SATURDAY 29 OCTOBER

Grafton Jacaranda Dragon Boat Races

Come and enjoy the atmosphere of dragon boat racing on the mighty Clarence River. Saturday - 6km Two Bridges event from Corcoran around our two bridges and return. Sunday will be much more fast paced as teams compete in 200m sprint races. This event will demonstrate what dragon racing about.

Westlawn Jacaranda Royal Party Crowning

A magical evening of myth and tradition unique to Grafton’s floral festival. Graceful dancers farewell the 2021 reigning party as we celebrate the Crowning of the 2022 Jacaranda Royal Party. Market Square will be filled with food vendors and the Coopers Bar will be open serving a great variety of thirst quenching beverages as we await in anticipation of the announcement. The big screen will make sure everyone gets to experience the Crowning in all its glory. Grafton’s country music sensation, Brooke McClymont returns home as this year’s Guest of Honour and will co-host the evening with local favourite and Jacaranda President, Desan Padayachee. Some chairs will be provided for the early birds but please bring your pinic chair or blanket to enjoy a night of royalty.

SUNDAY 30 OCTOBER

Café 1851 & Prs Jacaranda Fun Run

Jog-a-long starting between Grafton’s two bridges on the north bank of the Clarence River. Runners will enjoy a unique Jacaranda run experience taking in both bridges. All distances run across the infamous bendy Grafton Bridge into South Grafton and back. Immerse yourself (literally) in the purple with an optional Colour Run for runners entered in the 2.4km run. If you wish to participate in the Colour Run at the finsh line, wear white for it to be most effective. Whether you’re our next Olympic running champion or are more used to a Netflix marathon, the Jacaranda RiverRUN is an event for you.

Grafton Jacaranda Dragon Boat Races

Come and enjoy the atmosphere of dragon boat racing on the mighty Clarence River. Saturday - 6km Two Bridges event from Corcoran around our two bridges and return. Sunday will be much more fast paced as teams compete in 200m sprint races. This event will demonstrate what dragon racing about.

Grafton Presbyterian Church Annual Jacaranda Service

All are welcome to our 68th Annual Jacaranda Service. An opportunity to pray for our town. Special Guest Speaker: Ben Smith from Harbourside Presbyterian Church, Coffs Harbour who will share a message from the Bible. Morning Tea to Follow.

When: 12.00pm

Where: Corcoran Park Kirchner Street, Grafton Cost: FREE for spectators

When: 7.30pm

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 10km at 7am 5km at 7.30am 2.4km at 8am

Where: Park between both bridges Cost: 10km - $25 5km $20, 2.5km $10 (13 above), $7 (6 to 12), Under 5 FREE

To register visit jacarandafestival.com/ tickets

When: 8.00am

Where: Corcoran Park Kirchner Street, Grafton Cost: FREE for spectators

When: 9.30am

Where: Grafton Presbyterian Church Cost: FREE

discover your library

this jacaranda

every thursday storytime & craft 10:30-11:30am go purple with us at storytimes during jacaranda.

every tuesday & thursday get connected 10:30-12:30pm drop in to grafton library for our free one-on-one technology sessions.

festival history explore our local studies collection to discover the history of jacaranda.

e-library access your library anytime, anywhere with our vast e-library, including e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines, databases, films plus much more.

BorrowBox, Libby, Beamafilm, IndyReads, Kinderling Kids Radio... just a few of the platforms available for free with your library card.

jacaranda photos drop by grafton library to check out our interactive surface table, which will be displaying photos of jacaranda over the ages.

jacaranda robes find the display cabinet in the library foyer and take a selfie with the historic jacaranda robes, crowns, and tea set.

jacaranda storytime thursday 6th october 10:30-11:30am join us for a special storytime hosted by the jacaranda junior queen candidates.

groups

writers groups do you like to write? seeking feedback on and inspiration for your writing in a supportive local environment? at our writers groups all levels and writing styles are welcome.

knit wits do you have a passion for knitting? join your local knit wits group for a knit and a chat.

book club join a local book club as an excuse to gather with your friends, share your love of books, and discover our wide collection of stories.

phone, visit or drop us an email to find out more.

SUNDAY 30 OCTOBER

RetroFest

Drive into a simpler time of hula hoops, Brylcreem and floral skirts. Celebrating all things vintage; beautiful cars, bikes, glamorous Pin Ups, and Rock’n’Roll. RetroFest is all about fun without a mobile device! Live entertainment throughout the day by Vanessa Lee and The Retro Train in the lead up to the announcement of Miss RetroFest 2022. Food vendors to keep you fueled while you dance up a storm and the Coppers Bar will be open to cool you down.

• Pinup Competition

• Beard and Moustache Competition

• Dagwood Dog Eating Competition

• Fairy Floss Eating Competition (14 years and under)

Enter above competitions at the event

An Afternoon at The Proms

Compered by the fabulous comedian Mandy Nolan, Clarence Valley Orchestra will again bring you a musical variety afternoon at its best. The highlight will be Simon Tedeschi, one of Australia’s most renowned classical pianists, performing Rhapsody in Blue with the Orchestra. Local well known vocalist Lisa Butcher and other soloists will again be something not to be missed under the baton of Artistic Director Dr Greg Butcher. Tickets available via Saraton Theatre.

Jacaranda Organ Recital

There have been over 75 Jacaranda Organ Recitals. The performance is by the Cathedral Director of Music, who will play a selection of works demonstrating the versatility and range of this significant instrument once used for examinations by the Royal College of Organists in London before its move here in the early 1990’s. The recital will be followed by Devonshire Tea.

When: 10.00am

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 2.00pm

Where: Saraton Theatre 99 Prince Street, Grafton Cost: $59.00 Adults $55.00 Concession/Student $20.00 Child (12 Years)

When: 3.00pm

Where: Christ Church Cathedral Duke Street, Grafton Cost: Entry by donation

MONDAY 31 OCTOBER

Valley School’s on Show

A variety showcase of the Clarence Valley school’s best performing talent. 7 local schools will be participating featuring various musical, choir and dance acts. Food vendors will be open for lunch, snacks and drinks.

Whiddon Jacaranda Afternoon Tea

Enjoy a delicious, traditional afternoon tea with the Jacaranda Royal Party. There are plenty of raffles and tombolas, so no one should leave empty handed. This is the must-attend afternoon tea of the year, whether you are 7 or 87 years young. This afternoon is a little slice of something special and not to be missed.

CVCON presents - Jazz Ensemble & Concert Band

Ashey Albert Performing Arts Dancers

Clarence Valley Conservatorium Jazz Ensemble & Concert Band

Old time classics to modern day favourites, CVCON have it covered.

Ashey Albert Performing Arts Dancers

Witness Market Square coming alive with LED light effects at 8.15pm and 9.00pm.

TUESDAY 1 NOVEMBER

Elders Realestate Melbourne Cup Long Lunch

Market Square will come alive for the biggest race of the year! So ensure to book your seat at this new Jacaranda event being hosted by the vibrant team from Elders Real Estate Grafton. Dress to impress and look spectacular in those fascinators for the Fashions on the Square competition. There will be a sweep draw and raffles galore. Your $60 ticket will include a scrumptious grazing boards full of savoury and sweet delights, a selection of mini sliders, complimentary signature beverage, live entertainment by Ryan Martin Trio and entry into the lucky door prize. The Coopers bar will be open with your favourite beers, wine, cocktails and spirits. It’s a must attend event, start planning that jaw dropping outfit and see you at Market Square on Melbourne Cup Day

Northern Pathways Royal Party & Sponsor Cocktail Evening

A special evening for an invited list of special guests, sponsors, Royal Parties, past and present, to come together to celebrate Australia’s oldest floral festival. The Clocktower team never fail to provide a scrumptious selection of savery and sweat canapes and a grazing table fit for Queens and Kings.

When: 9.30am

Where: Market Square Cost: Entry by donation

When: 1.30pm

Where: Clarence River Jockey Club Powell Street, Grafton Cost: $20 per person, for tickets visit jacarandafestival.com/ tickets or at Harveys Jewellers on 54 Prince Street, Grafton

When: 7.30pm

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 12.00pm

Where: Market Square Cost: $60 per person, for tickets visit jacarandafestival.com/ tickets

When: 7.00pm

Where: Clocktower Hotel Cost: Invitation only

FESTIVAL GUEST OF HONOUR BROOKE MCCLYMONT

Grafton welcomes Brooke home to be this year’s Festival Guest of Honour. Brooke is a highly successful musician/songwriter initially with her two sisters, Sam and Molly as The McClymonts and also with her husband, Adam Eckersley.

Brooke returns to Grafton to highlight what makes the Festival so special for herself and the region. She will co-host the Royal Party Crowning Ceremony on Saturday evening 29 October. With the support of the Grafton Jacaranda Festival sponsors, Brooke will also perform a free concert with the Adam Eckersley Band in Market Square on Thursday 3 November at 7.30pm.

FESTIVAL ARTIST DANI GOROGO

Dani is a woman of Dunghutti, Bundjulung, Gumbayngirr and Papua New Guinean descent whose multi-faceted cultural heritage has informed her practice over the last thirty years. Dani’s connection to land and culture, and her understanding of the region has guided her nuanced, and thoughtful approach to the Festival for 2022.

First nation’s artist and curator Dani Gorogo has been invited to exhibit previously unseen works from her personal collection as the 2022 Jacaranda Festival Artist for Grafton Regional Gallery. The exhibition will be accompanied by rarely seen Grafton Jacaranda Festival historical footage which will be shown in the Courtyard Room. The exhibition will be open Saturday 15 October to Sunday13 November. Dani will also be presenting an Artist Talk on Sunday 6 November at Grafton Regional Gallery commencing at 11.00am.

Limited edition prints and reproductions of Dani’s works are available to purchase from JACA HQ at The Link, Prince St and Grafton Regional Gallery Boutique at 157 Fitzroy St Grafton.

WEDNESDAY 2 NOVEMBER

Blanchard Haulage Jacaranda Cup

Head on out the the Clarence River Jockey Club for an afternoon of horse racing and ensure to be there in time to witness the running of the prestigious Grafton Jacaranda Cup. There will be plenty of food and beverage options to enjoy as well as live entertainment.

Nyirrnaa Wjaarr Beautiful Land

Yibaa Bindarray Sweet River

This is an event to celebrate Gumbanyggirr dance, songs, language and food on Gumbaynggirr land next to the beautiful Clarence River while the jacarandas are blooming. Local schools South Primary, Gilwinga and Catherine Mcauley students will be performing and local art and craft people will have displays of craft to sell as well as food. Come and enjoy a lovely evening of friendship and knowledge.

CVCON presents - Broadway At Its Best And Regional Youth Orchestra NSW

Singers Jill Carter, Mackenzie Harvison, Kate Joseph, Mark Conaghan and Matthew Whittingham join forces with the CVCon Orchestra to present highlights from broadway musicals. After an Interval, young musicians from all over NSW will perform as Regional Youth Orchestra NSW performing movements from Dvorak’s famous New World Symphony. Food trucks will be in Market Square and the Coopers Bar will be open.

When: 1.00pm

Where: Clarence River Jockey Club Powell Street, Grafton Cost: FREE entry

When: 3.00pm to 7.00pm

Where: Lanes Boulevard (River end of Skinner Street, South Grafton Cost: FREE

When: 7.30pm

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

Proudly supporting the 2022 Grafton Jacaranda Festival

ANYTIME FITNESS

THURSDAY 3 NOVEMBER - 7.00am - 3.00pm - Market Square

It’s time to celebrate everything PURPLE! We are closing the CBD streets to allow for a day of craziness and entertainment. Businesses will be dressed up to take out the Rose Bowl trophy and practicing their skits to head down to Market Square to compete for the Silver and Gold cups at lunch time.

Jacaranda Thursday will begin at 7am with the 2GF and Independent FREE breakfast in Market Square. Be there early as the lines are crazy. Market stalls will open in Prince, Pound and Fitzroy Street’s early and the tone will come alive with four stages of entertainment throughout the day.

Jacaranda Stage

Mak & Shar, will open at 7am. These are two of the brothers from Brothers 3 that made the grand final on X factor back in 2014. They are a singer/songwriter duo that specialise in live looping performances and are multi-instrumentalists.

Welcome to Country will be performed by Uncle Ken Gordon with the welcome song sung by 7 year old Maisie Monaghan. Talented 11 year old Lennox Monaghan will deliver an upbeat performance on his Yidaki (Didgeridoo)

Pink Zinc is a dynamic four piece band that will have you dancing to their groove. Whether its rock, funk, pop or blues that you dig, their got it and they will flaunt it all over Market Square stage.

Silver & Gold Cup Business performances and awards will take place from 12.30pm and are the local businesses strutting their best (and worst) talents. These skits are hilarious and you will be bound to know someone disguised in a wig.

Clarence Tunes Stage

Youth acts from across the Clarence Valley will have you dancing on the main street. Nash Crofton, a 16 year old budding event manager will support his peers on this stage. A showcase of incredible up and coming talent.

8.00am - 8.30am - Brooklyn Paget (Solo)

8.35am - 9.00am - Olivia Hinde

9.15am - 9.45am - MCC Band

9.50am - 10.20am - Miriam Taylor & Liam Mitchell

10.30am - 11.30am - KillSwitch (Band)

11.45am - 12.45pm - Hometown Revival (Band)

1.00pm - 2.00pm - Pacific Valley Christian School Band (Band)

When: 7.00am

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 8.00am to 2.00pm

Where: Prince Street, Grafton Cost: FREE

Big River Rockers Stage

A checkered dance floor will define the 50’s for you to watch demonstrations from the Big River Rockers. They will definitely encourage you onto the floor to twist up a storm.

Blanchard Haulage Stage

Hats Off will deliver indi vibe originals and covers while The MetroGnome’s are going to have you grooving on Fitzroy St belting out some upbeat rock classics. They will collaborate with the Westlawn team that will lip sync some classics. While Caringa might steal the show with their extremely talented crew.

Please note that shaving cream, dye and water projectiles are banned from the CBD of Grafton and Market Square.

The Crackup Sisters

The Crackup Sister have a burning passion to share joy and the spirit of Outback Australia, we make stories to make you laugh, learn, think and connect. They came with an entertainment precinct that comes alive with thier shows. They deliver 4 x completely different 20 minute shows at their Homestead. Think aerial circus antics, choreographed whip cracking, knockabout acrobatics, dogs, horses and gags that you’d never see coming! It’s a 14x12m interactive set, complete with exploding dunny, aerial windmill, sound system and lighting. You have to see it to believe it!

Precision Helicopters Scenic Flights

Get a birds eye view of the Jacaranda spectacular above Grafton with thanks to Precision Helicopters!

Brooke Mcclymont & Adam Ecklersey

Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley with the full band will be celebrating new music as well as performing all your favourite songs from the duo with a few songs from the Adam Eckersley Band and The McClymonts thrown in as well, it’s sure to be an awesome evening. Bring your pinic blanket or chair, relax with a beverage from the Coopers Bar and dinner from the array of food vendors.

When: 9.00am to 1.00pm

Where: In front of I Scream Cost: FREE

When: 9.00am to 1.00pm

Where: Fitzroy Street (Outside Westlawn) Cost: FREE

When: 9.00am & 2.30pm

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 9.00am to 5.00pm

Where: South Grafton Airstrip Vere Street South Grafton Cost: 10mins Scenic Flight $99pp 20mins Scenic Flight $180pp

When: 7.30pm

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

FRIDAY 4 NOVEMBER

Precision Helicopters Scenic Flights

Get a birds eye view of the Jacaranda spectacular above Grafton with thanks to Precision Helicopters!

The Crackup Sisters

The Crackup Sister have a burning passion to share joy and the spirit of Outback Australia, we make stories to make you laugh, learn, think and connect.The came with an entertainment precinct that comes alive with thier shows. They deliver 4 x completely different 20 minute shows at their Homestead. Think aerial circus antics, choreographed whip cracking, knockabout acrobatics, dogs, horses and gags that you’d never see coming! It’s a 14x12m interactive set, complete with exploding dunny, aerial windmill, sound system and lighting. You have to see it to believe it!

Venetian Carnival

A variety showcase of the best Clarence Valley performing talent. Bring a chair or picnic rug to enjoy the evening entertainment. This is a popular event, so to ensure you get the perfect view of the Market Sqaure Stage, come early as a few hundred seats will be supplied, or choose to picnic in front of the BIG screen. Food Vendors and the Coopers Bar will be open.

SATURDAY 5 NOVEMBER

Classic Car Display

Grafton Vintage Motor Vehicle Club members have a wide variety of Vintage Cars on display at this annual static display. Cars to arrive at 7.30am. $10 to enter a classic vehicle(includes morning tea)

TAFE NSW Grafton Jacaranda Markets

The TAFE NSW Grafton Jacaranda Markets have been running for 36 years and are hosted on the grounds of TAFE NSW Grafton amongst the shady fig trees. A community event with a large variety of interesting market stalls, food, fun and festivity. There will be something of interest for everyone.

Precision Helicopters Scenic Flights

Get a birds eye view of the Jacaranda spectacular above Grafton with thanks to Precision Helicopters!

Midcoast Family Day Care Beautiful Baby Competition

Babies: love how they smell or hate when they mess themselves, but their mothers get pretty serious when it comes to who’s’ is the hottest looking bub! Entries accepted at the event from 9.30am for the following categories:

0 > 6 months | 7 > 12 months |13 > 18 months | 19 > 24 months Winners announced for each category and Grand Champion Baby at the event.

When: 9.00am to 5.00pm

Where: South Grafton Airstrip Cost: 10mins $99pp 20mins $180pp

When: 10.00am & 1.30pm

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 7.30pm

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 8.00am - 1.00pm

Where: Outside Cathedral Duke Street, Grafton Cost: FREE public viewing

When: 8.00am - 1.00pm

Where: TAFE NSW Grafton cnr Clarence & Pound Streets Cost: FREE

When: 9.00am to 5.00pm Where: South Grafton Airstrip Cost: 10mins Scenic Flight $99pp 20mins Scenic Flight $180pp

When: 10.00am

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

“Serving our great community of Grafton and the Clarence Valley”

SATURDAY 5 NOVEMBER

The Crackup Sisters

The Crackup Sister have a burning passion to share joy and the spirit of Outback Australia, we make stories to make you laugh, learn, think and connect.The came with an entertainment precinct that comes alive with thier shows. They deliver 4 x completely different 20 minute shows at their Homestead. Think aerial circus antics, choreographed whip cracking, knockabout acrobatics, dogs, horses and gags that you’d never see coming! It’s a 14x12m interactive set, complete with exploding dunny, aerial windmill, sound system and lighting. You have to see it to believe it!

Clocktower Hotel Splash Of Tartan

Do you feel that stirring in your pipes? That’s what a massed band of bagpipes will do to you. It’s enough to make you want to don a bonnie wee kilt and chase a haggis over the sea to Skye.

This event highlights the local Grafton District Services Club Pipeband and four other visiting bands. They will perform in quintet compeition and mass band together. A highlight of the event will be a performance by the Jacaranda Highland Dancers.

Newcastle Permanent Floats Procession

Watch as Grafton’s CBD becomes awash with riotous colour and sounds for the annual float procession. Over 60 local clubs, organisations and businesses parade decorated vehicles carrying costumed characters down Prince Street.

Summerland Credit Union Party In The Park

Get ready Grafton! Thanks to the generous sponsors, Wesley Mission and Summerland Credit Union, Grafton Jacaranda Festival will host a free screening of the award-winning film ‘Up Armidale Road’ after the Newcastle Permanent Float Procession.

After that it’s time to party - Grace & Hugh will be joining forces with the swingin’, swaggerin’ The Big Ol’ Bus Band. Ten world class musicians climbing aboard... next stop Grafton. Come sing and dance along. It will be HUGE. This event will be apopular one, so please bring your chairs or blanets and get a good spot early. Ensure to support the food vendors and enjoy a beverage or two at the Coopers Bar.

SUNDAY 6 NOVEMBER

Sunday Funday - The Closing Party

A family fun event with Clarence Valley’s favouite two DJ’s on stage in Market Square, PANDA & RETI! Dance up a storm while enjoying that one last of it all, ferris wheel ride, dagwood dog, potato on a stick and fairy floss to name a few. The Coopers Bar will be open so you can sit back and enjoy a beverage chill’in out to the greatest tunes. This is the final salute to the magnificent purple blossums for another year.

When: 11.00am & 3.30pm

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 1.00pm

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

When: 5.00pm

Where: Prince Street, Grafton Cost: FREE

When: 7.00pm

Where: Prince Street, Grafton Cost: FREE

When: 10.00am - 2.00pm

Where: Market Square Cost: FREE

Amanda Daffey

The New School of Arts Neighbourhood House

Amanda loves the community spirit which embraces the Jacaranda Festival and being a part of the excitement is one of the reasons behind her nomination as a candidate in 2022. Another big reason why Amanda decided to be a part of the festival this year is the decision to be more inclusive of the LGBTIQ+ community.

Kellie-Anne Goodwin

Pivotal Support Coordination

Kell would love to be employed, but it’s not easy to work with a disability, and running as a Jacaranda candidate gives her an opportunity to give something back to her community and connect with people. Kell loves the festival and has been attending all her life. Kell’s passion is to encourage other people to get involved with the festival.

Trinity Gutteridge L.V. Hair

Trinity remembers looking at the photos of the Jacaranda Queens of years past on the wall in I Scream, dreaming of one day getting to be one and being part of the history. Trinity thought it would be a great opportunity to become a candidate to really grow as a person, improve her public speaking ability and learn about organising events, collaborating with businesses to support an idea.

Eva Miller

The Pelican Playhouse

Eva nominated as a Jacaranda candidate after identifying it as a chance to connect with people, to give something back to her beautiful community, to step outside of her comfort zone and do things she never thought she would do.

Gerelle Blanchard - MATRON OF HONOUR

Grafton Midday Rotary

Our 2022 Matron of Honour Elect, Gerelle has been helping guide the candidates through their candidacy and fundraising process. The Jacaranda Festival means a lot to Gerelle and has played a major role in her family’s life for many years. Gerelle had the amazing experience of being a candidate herself in 1985 and her daughter, Bree was crowned Junior Jacaranda Princess in 2005.

Candidates

Lilly Brookwell

Flame Trees Café & Cakery

Lilly’s Jacaranda journey has provided many opportunities for her to grow in confidence, meet lots of new people, make new friends and share fun moments with her family. Lilly is looking forward to the fun at Market Square and the entertainment on Jacaranda Thursday along with a ride on the ferris wheel.

Molly Cosgrove Virtue Property

Molly became a Junior Jacaranda Candidate to make new friends, grow in confidence and to learn about the festival. Molly is really excited to participate in the Jacaranda Float Procession and to be part of something special in her local community.

Ella Roach

Blueberries Smoothies and Health Bar

Ella loves being a junior candidate as the experience has created many opportunities to feel connected and help her local community while learning more about the inside operations of the festival. Ella can’t wait for the exciting week of Jacaranda events and to be an active part of the festival this year.

Pete's Pete's

Reboot

every sunday

all aussie arvo from midday

ANNOLA THAI 127 Prince Street, Grafton 6642 7888

BIG RIVER PIZZA Grafton Food Emporium, 25-35 King St, Grafton 6643 1555

BREWHOUSE CAFÉ Gate 3 | 170 North Street, Grafton 0438 433 640

EMPORIUM CAFÉ 31 Skinner Street, South Grafton 6643 3524

CAFÉ 1851

The Link, Prince Street, Grafton 6642 8636

CLARENCE KITCHEN COLLECTIVE 50 Skinner Street, South Grafton 0438 187 168

EMPORIUM CAFÉ

31 Skinner Street, South Grafton 6643 4776

ESP ESPRESSO 54-56 Prince Street, Grafton 0484 904 356

FLAME TREES CAFÉ 77 Prince Street, Grafton 0424 226 918

FOUNTAIN COURT - CHINESE 135 Prince Street, Grafton 6643 1411

GLORIA JEANS

Grafton Shopping World, Grafton 6642 1334

GYM BEANS ESPRESSO Grafton Shopping World, Grafton 6642 4455

HEART & SOUL ESPRESSO 13/15 Skinner Street, South Grafton 6642 6846

HEART & SOUL - WHOLEFOOD CAFÉ 124A Prince Street, Grafton 6642 2166

INDIAN COTTAGE 39 Prince Street, Grafton 6642 3141

I SCREAM 91 Prince Street, Grafton 6643 1960

LI GARDEN CHINESE 65 Armidale Street, South Grafton 6643 3588

NEW ORIENTAL - CHINESE 127 Prince Street, Grafton 6642 7888

PURPLE HAZE ESPRESSO BAR 6/4 King Street, Grafton 6642 8866

SMILES CAFÉ 25 King Street, Grafton 6642 1412

SUNRISE ON TURF 161 Turf Street, Grafton 6643 1061

TEPPAN MATE JAPANESE 52-74 Fitzroy Street, Grafton 6643 3847

THAI PALACE 52-74 Fitzroy Street, Grafton 6642 8856

THE BURRITO BAR 52-74 Fitzroy Street, Grafton 6642 6686

THE COFFEE CLUB Grafton Shopping World, Grafton 6642 8550

TOAST ESPRESSO 31 Prince Street, Grafton 6642 6996

VINES AT 139 139 Fitzroy Street, Grafton 6642 5500

AUSTRALIAN HOTEL 57 Through Street, South Grafton. 6642 2308

BLUE GOOSE HOTEL 2 Casino Road, Junction Hill. 6644 7233

CLOCKTOWER HOTEL 93 Prince Street, Grafton. 6643 1

CROWN HOTEL 1 Prince Street, Grafton. 6642 4000

GOOD INTENT HOTEL 65 Armidale Street, South Grafton. 6642 2188

GRAFTON DISTRICT SERVICES CLUB 105-107 Mary Street, Grafton. 6640 3200

GRAFTON HOTEL 97 Fitzroy Street, Grafton. 6642 2000

GREAT NORTHERN HOTEL 76 Spring Street, South Grafton. 6642 8811

HOTEL 5 189 Armidale Rd South Grafton. 6642 2555

JACARANDA HOTEL 154 Pound Street, Grafton. 6642 6627

ROCHES FAMILY HOTEL 85 Victoria Street, Grafton. 6642 2866

ROYAL HOTEL 170 Ryan Street, South Grafton. 6642 3223

SOUTH GRAFTON EX-SERVICEMENS CLUB 2 Wharf Street South Grafton. 6642 1422

VILLAGE GREEN HOTEL Cnr Pounds and Turf Streets, Grafton. 6642 209

WALKERS MARINA HOTEL 90 Through Street, South Grafton. 6642 1898

FESTIVAL MERCHANDISE & INFORMATION SHOP

Call in to check out our range of Jacaranda Festival merchandise and for information, maps and programs about the festival.

If you’ve enjoyed the 2022 Grafton Jacaranda Festival then we’d love to see you again next year.

On the back of this year’s success we’re planning an even bigger and better event including more music, entertainment, art and fun, and of course that special Jacaranda spirit that ensures we all belong.

For sponsorship or event opportunities please contact Mark Blackadder Festival Manager info@jacarandafestival.com

BY NIGHT!