Yarra Valley travels back in time

By Melissa Donchi
MORE than 1000 people travelled back in time over the weekend as Historic Events staged its first Medieval Festival in the Yarra Valley.
Archery Park in Launching Place was transformed into a full medieval fair complete with jousters, merchants and Norman warriors from 1066.
The day kicked off on the main field with a Viking challenge at 11am and then a birds of prey exhibition at midday, which became all too realistic when one of the birds escaped, temporarily alarming its owner as it swooped over to a nearby creek.
Kids games and dancing began after lunch followed by archery and jousting competitions and a knightly tournament, the Order of the Crown.
To keep the day authentic, medieval food was available, as well as crafts, blacksmiths and falconry.
Co-owner of Historic Events Lincoln Dunn said the medieval weekend was successful despite the problems they had with the weather.
“We think between 1500 and 2000 people attended over the weekend, which is great,” Mr Dunn said.
“The weather on Saturday provided a bit of a challenge, especially the wind, which blew away half the set on Saturday night.
“Luckily we were able to piece it back together in time for Sunday when we experienced far better conditions.”
Mr Dunn said some of the highlights were the birds of prey and professional jousting competitions which he described as “very competitive”.
While the owners are still packing up and recovering from the weekend’s festivities they say there is definitely another festival on the cards for next year.
“It should be around the same time and same place,” Mr Dunn said.
People interested in staging or participating in medieval events can visit the Historic Events website www.historicevents.com.au