Innisfail set to celebrate at this year’s Tropical Art Deco Festival

Maria Girgenti

THE Innisfail and District Historical Society is gearing up to host their third annual Tropical Art Deco Festival, which runs from September 13 - 17.

Since securing a Cassowary Coast Regional Council Economic Development Community Grant, the organising committee, comprised of Historical Society members/volunteers, have been busy.

The festival starts on September 13, with the Historical Society’s Historical Cemetery Walk at the Innisfail Cemetery.

Events over the next four days include Shire Hall guided tours, Art Deco Trivia Night, the Roaring 20s Basket Cabaret, Champagne mystery movie, Paronella Park tours, Lions Markets, Art Deco cruises, jazz music in Edith Street, as well as the fabulous High Tea and Fashion Parade at the Innisfail RSL.

‘Doggy Deco’ also returns to the event program at the Imperial Tavern on September 16 from 10.00 am-

12.00 pm.

Dress up yourself and your pet in Art Deco fashions for a fun outing. Registered dogs only and people without pets are most welcome to attend.

“This year, we have added a tour celebrating our Art Deco Heritage and local history with a guided walking tour of the Innisfail CBD on September 14.

The walking tour will take place weekly, from May to November, with bookings through Mission Beach Tourist Information Centre,” said Society President Trish Ernst. “We are very excited to be able to bring our town’s history alive for locals and visitors alike every Thursday.”

The festival wraps up with the Vintage Market at the Shire Hall on September 17, with free entry, refreshments and entertainment on the verandah from 9.00 am to 2.00 pm.

Limited market stall spots are left, so contact Chris on 0439 817 100 if interested.

Sapore Di Italia are coming onboard this year with their ‘Jazz Cafe’ on the Sunday, featuring music and film clips of the Art Deco era, along with their signature great coffee, sweet treats and meals.

There is loads of Sunday fun for the youngsters at Warrina Lakes, with Innisfail Mini Rail operating from 10.00 am- 2.00 pm.

Whilst dressing up is optional, the more Art Deco style fancy dress, the better, to help set the atmosphere and celebrate the town’s Art Deco heritage and stunning architecture, which came about after the 1918 cyclone destroyed most of the town.

Be sure to visit the Historical Society Museum in Edith Street’s Canecutter Court during the festival, between 10.00 am - 2.00 pm, for a closer look at Innisfail’s history.

This year’s program has something for everyone featuring Art Deco fashion, fun, history and music, with a mix of free and ticketed events.

For a copy of the events program and ticketed event bookings, please visit the Historical Society website at www.innisfailhistory.com.au/about-6.

Further information is available by visiting the Tropical Art Deco and Innisfail Historical Society Facebook/Instagram pages and the Council website.

Innisfail residents are gearing up for five days of roaring 1920s fun at this year’s Tropical Art Deco Festival from September 13 - 17.

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