September 17, 2021
The Goomeri Pumpkin Festival committee recently organised for a painted mural which promotes the annual festival to be “refreshed” by the original artist, Willie Nelson.
The Pumpkin Festival mural is located on a shed on the Bunya Highway, and has been there for at least 18 years.
Festival organisers received a grant from the Department of Communities, Housing and Digital Economy.
“Willie Nelson, along with his son, David, put a refreshing spin on the image that has stood the test of time,” Goomeri Pumpkin Festival co-ordinator Kim Boyter said.
“This work will hopefully be around for the next 25 years to continue the promotion and branding of our event and town.
“The association would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the in-kind sponsorship of the owner of the shed on which the mural appears, Mr Don Louis.
“The provision of this structure to enable the promotion of our event and town over the years has been invaluable.
“Don’s dedication and commitment to both the town and Pumpkin Festival has been unwavering.
“The 2021 Goomeri Pumpkin Festival has been one of the only multi-day events to actually be presented in our region this year without COVID-19 impacting on our program of events.
“All Queensland Health directions and requirements were met and at the last hour (they) signed off on our event and we were good to go ahead.
“Up to 30,000 people attended over the couple of days at the end of May, giving both our economies and visitors alike the boost so badly needed.”
Kim said Goomeri Pumpkin Festival Inc would be holding its Annual General Meeting on October 5 to elect a new committee to steer the event into the future.
“New ideas and lots of young blood is needed to ensure this event can remain sustainable, so, if you want to become involved come and join us and put your hand up to help make this happen,” Kim said.
