Sun Bear Children’s Festival is the playground where nature and culture meet, according to director Katja Nedoluha.
“Put together a bunch of kids, their love of wildlife and the support of their parents, and voila – that’s the Sun Bear Children’s Festival,” she said
The festival, now in its third year, begins two days before World Animal Day to highlight the plight of endangered species.
It makes a unique connection to how indigenous people have created balance between nature and humanity, Ms Nedoluha said.
“It’s a great introduction to sustainability and culture in a playful way.”
At their workshops, Norm Stanley and Aunty Bronwyn will introduce the kids to their totem animals and together they will perform a ceremony.
The Endangered Wildlife Parade follows, with children to dress up in animal costumes and form a musical procession.
Founder of the festival Noah, 8, picked the Sun Bear as his totem animal.
“I want all kids to learn about protecting endangered animals,” he said.
While the sun bear is not an Australian animal it represents the relationships with all the creatures that live on Earth, Ms Nedoluha said.
“It’s a recipe for success; a playground of celebrating nature and culture created by our future leaders.”
The festival starts Spring Creek Reserve, Torquay, at 11am this Sunday.
Entry is free. Activities by gold coin donation. For information visit www.sunbearfestival.com.
