Lake view of opening

YARRA RANGES residents can enjoy the big crowd experience of the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony even if they haven’t got tickets.
All the colour of the opening ceremony will be seen on a huge, 30 square metre screen as part of the shire’s Twilight Festival at Lillydale Lake on Wednesday, 15 March.
Yarra Ranges mayor Monika Keane has encouraged members of the community to join in on the celebrations which start at 5pm.
One of the highlights of the evening will be the huge Maori war canoe.
Twenty Maori’s wearing traditional costumes and face paint will row across the lake in a 40 foot canoe.
“The war canoe will be a fantastic sight,” Cr Keane said.
“The evening promises to be enormous fun. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate this wonderful sporting event as a community. There will be something for everyone.”
Activities include the new Access for all Abilities playground, local cultural groups, family activities, sand sculpture, a sand castle competition, Maori dancing, short films and market stalls.
Food and drink will be available and people are encouraged to take along their own picnic rug, blankets, chairs and torches. The festival is a fully accessible wheelchair and pram friendly event.
Phone 1300 368 333 for further information.