![]() Folk in the Forest was born after a group of bush walkers spent a weekend in Dwellingup in preparation for a planned Coast to Coast walk in England. Banksia Springs was our home for that weekend and our after-dinner chat indicated that a return visit to this lovely spot would be highly desirable. All of us being folkies from way back, a musical weekend was proposed and a further suggestion by Steve Hogan that it should be a fundraising event for Little Folk was agreed. Our host, Geoff Bell, creator of Banksia Springs immediately booked us in for the third weekend in November. That was 2006 and this year we’ll hold our 18th festival!
We’ve had lots of fun in those seightteen years. Performers from Ireland, England and America along with many Western Australian and interstate artists have willingly given their time and talent free of charge. This, along with Geoff Bell’s donation of his accommodation costs has enabled us to raise in excess of $250,000.00 for cancer research at Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation. This is a unique festival with a very special quality --- the enthusiastic audience spend the weekend with the artists and really get to enjoy their company. We breakfast together, enjoy a ramble in the jarrah forest (if we’re up early enough) and sing, dance and play into the wee small hours. |
Tickets open 9.00am Monday 9th Sept.
![]() We're back for our 18th year, and looking forward to several artists new to the festival.
Fort the firdst time in 10 years, there has been a small increase in the price of as festival ticket. The early bird price has increased by $10 to $70.00. If the last few years are anything to go by - they will be well and truly sold out out by Septemer 30 - but after that point, any remaining tickts will go to the full price of $85.00 (plus booking cost). Who's playing ? We are in the final stages of confirming with all the artists who have expresed interest in performing. As soon as we have advised all those who applied, we will announce the lineup here, and on Facebook. Check backin soon. Where to stay ? As ususal - the primary accomodation for the weekend is camping (swags, tents, campers, motorhomes and caravans welcome) - but there is a very limited number of beds available in the lodge and cottages - these go VERY fast, get in early. While we would love to have everyone staying on site for the great vibe it creates (and it helps contribute to our fundraising target), we realise that camping is not for everyone. If you must find a bed somewhere offsite - we have partnered with the absolute closest accomodation to the festival ( 2 Minute drive) at the Jarrah Forest Lodge, and if you mention you are coming for Folk in the Forest at Banksia Springs they will look after you. Catering options. The bar zone will be back on the lawn outside the lodge , and we will have Dion and Isaac back again with their mobile bar - hand crafted Karafilas wines, and Forge beers and ginger beer. Food vendors still to be confirmed - we will update with menue details as soon as available. Please support our vendors - they have made the long trip down to support the charity, and help create a great atmosphere for the festival. You can also self cater in your van, or in the shared kitchen in the lodge. Bear in mind there are a lot of people using the limited kitchen and fridge space so please be patient. |