Low-cost Ekka alternative with artistic flair

Looking for a cost-effective alternative to the EKKA? Beachmere Art Festival is on next week, with a big program of activities and workshops across three days.

The event, from August 8-10, is being organised by Beachmere Art Society which is partnering with six community groups and more than 90 volunteers to deliver it.

It will offer visitors and locals the chance to see art demonstrations, play barefoot bowls, take a tour of Beachmere's edible garden, learn to play ukulele for free, learn art techniques, or discover the secret stories of Beachmere. Entry is free.

A Beachmere Art Society spokesperson says the accessible event, at Beachmere Hub, Main St, Beachmere, will offer something for people of all ages.

Free activities

- Artist demonstrations

- U3A learn to play ukelele

- U3A logic competition

- U3A community puzzle

- Beachmere Community Garden tours

- History of Beachmere art walking tour

- History of Beachmere Indigenous storytime

- Community feedback board (for all community groups and Moreton Bay City Council)

- Community treasure hunt

- Beachmere Art Festival exhibition (free entry, art for purchase)

- Paint and display on the day art corner (with prizes).

- Moreton Bay City Council information table

Paid activities

- Rock painting - $5 per 50g of rock

- Organic clay jewellery class (two hours) - $15 per person

- Acrylic painting class (two hours) - $15 per person

- Beachmere Community Garden plant sales - as priced

- Beachmere bowls trial: $10 per person, $5 for accompanied children

- Artist sales: as priced

- Exhibition sales: as priced

- Raffles: $5 for three tickets

Bookings, for paid and free events, can be made through Eventbrite.