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One of The Hills’ longest running community events is back, bigger and better than ever

The 2016 Orange Blossom Festival will be a two-day celebration of community, local performance, fireworks and fun at the Castle Hill Showground, 17 & 18 September.

Now in its 56th year, Hills Shire Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne said she was very much looking forward to this year’s celebrations.

“OBF has always been a much-loved event that provides fun for the whole family,” Mayor Byrne said.

“We were really happy with the move back to Castle Hill Showground in 2015. Combining the historic Castle Hill Showground with our longest-running event was a no-brainer.”

“The Showground gives us the room to make OBF a celebration of all the things our community is proud of.”

“The name is reflective of the old days when The Hills was better known for its beautiful orange groves, but no matter what the content of the event is, it’s always about celebrating The Hills.”

“This year it will feature activities, events and stalls that will satisfy many different tastes.”

“Children’s entertainer, TV personality, musician and actor Jay Laga’aia best known for his roles on Jay’s Jungle, Playschool, Home and Away and Star Wars, confirmed to host the event festivities from the community stage on Saturday from 10am to 8pm.”

Some of the attractions include:

·         OBF Parade ·         Community stage
·         Finals of the Zest Quest ·         Amusement rides
·         Huge selection of food options ·         Skate park and skate workshops
·         Obstacle course ·         Smooth FM photo booth
·         Local for Locals Awards ·         The Designer Markets
·         Community stalls ·         Classic car display
·         Emergency services display ·         Pippa’s Playland
·         Swap Shop ·         Fireworks
·         Face-painting ·         Pop-up library
·         Balloon twisting ·         Animal and Wildlife Show
·         Kids craft

·         Active Zest

·         Mobile play centre

·         Shop Cook Save cooking demonstration

 

“Uniting all the community groups for one event has been a very rewarding experience, and I’m pleased to say that although the Crestwood Fair will no longer continue in its previous format, it will live on at OBF 2016.”

“Our Zest Quest talent competition is a continuation of Crestwood Idol.”

“Apart from the Main Event, there are also a number of associated events such as the Seniors Dance, Kenthurst Fair, Castle Hill BMX Shootout, The Hills School Expo, Bonsai Society Show, Annual Art Awards, Rotary Cross Country Challenge, Hills Garden Competition and Open Gardens Weekend.”

For more information, visit www.orangeblossomfestival.com.au

Ruby Webber