WEDDERBURN Patchwork Group members are busily preparing  for their 31st Community Christmas and Arts Festival.
The two-day festival opens next Friday in the Wedderburn Mechanics’ Hall, starting the round of Loddon festive celebrations and will provide the opportunity for talented and creative people in the region to showcase their work, said group president Irene Finch. 
“We hope that the community will support the festival again this year with their entries in all 29 sections of the competition,” she said. “There are no restrictions on the number of entries per person in any section and children, from under school age to Year 12, are encouraged to enter their work. You can also enter items for display only.”
Certificates will be awarded to the best entry in each section, with highly commended certificates awarded at the judge’s discretion.
Community groups and individuals can enter a Christmas tree in one of the Christmas tree sections. 
Decorating themes for the trees are the choice of the entrants. 
“The trees are always popular with the visitors,” Irene said. This year’s festival challenge theme is Almost anything goes – Country Life. Entries must fit within 50cm x 50cm x 50cm size and can be in any medium. 
“The challenge entry could be a small quilt, bag, cushion, toy, beaded work and whatever else you might like to make, to reflect the theme,” she said.
“For visitors there will be plenty to see, as well as opportunities to participate in the festival. We will have market stalls selling their merchandise and providing opportunities to find some Christmas gifts and bargains. 
“There will be a trading table, a lucky door prize, a raffle quilt and an opportunity to vote for Viewer’s Choice.
“Susie Lockhart will be catering on both Friday and Saturday.
A selection of Christmas songs will be sung by a local choir next Friday at 2pm as doors open to the festival.
Proceeds from this year’s event will be donated to Wedderburn Band Cricket Club.
Irene said all entries were to be received at the hall between 2pm and 6pm next Thursday.