By JONATHON HOWARD
DRAGONS, flaming echidnas and a space shuttle were just a few of the creative fire drums to feature during last year’s Killarney Bonfire Night.
Organisers are now calling on Southern Downs residents to take up the challenge during this year’s bonfire night on Saturday, 20 July, by creating their own fire drum entry.
Settle your family and friends around a warm fire for a night of fun, food and entertainment and be amazed by the warm creations.
Event co-ordinator Louise Brosnan said the region was home to many talented fire drum builders.
“Safety and warmth of the drum are the key things to consider along with a creative design,” she said.
“The simplest ideas can be the most effective when they are lit up.
“One drum featured 18 faces which one lady created by drilling a face a day for 18 days.
“Sometimes patience is as good a tool as anything else in the creation of a great drum.”
What is a Fire Drum?
An old-fashioned kind of outdoor heater – created out of necessity. At its most basic the fire drum is a 44-gallon drum with a couple of axe holes.
The fire drum remains an essential item for winter parties in the Southern Downs … but for bonfire night the drums are “hotted up” to create functional works of art.
Entry forms and fees are required by Thursday, 19 July, by 5pm.
Late entries may not be accepted. Bring your drum to Killarney Polocrosse Fields, Willow St, Killarney on Saturday, 20 July, between 11am and 3pm.
What is bonfire night?
Bonfire night includes a giant bonfire, fireworks, a jumping castle, a licensed bar, food, entertainment and country rock music by Studio Two.
It will run from 4pm to 9pm at the Killarney Polocrosse Fields.
Bonfire Night is Killarney Memorial Aged Care’s winter fund-raiser and Killarney’s official Jumpers and Jazz event.
Fire drums will be on display as part of the event and the best fire drums will win a prize.
For entry forms and more information call 4664 1655 or visit www.killarneybonfirenight.com
