Several projects have recently come to fruition in Violet Town with the completion of the streetscape works in our shopping strip and the opening of our new accommodation offering, the Honeysuckle Inn. Feelings about the streetscape are mixed with praise for the crossings by those who need to use them and sadness over the loss of carparking spots for visitors to VT. We are yet to hear what cyclists think about their new extra wide bike lanes. The Honeysuckle Inn renovations has brought the 1908 middle pub into the twenty-first century and it is now opened after sixteen years of being closed. The old bar is now the owners’ private residence and the dining room is a café/wine bar. Many Towners took the opportunity over a couple of open days to have a look at all the seven rooms of accommodation, and the view from the verandah is terrific. Congratulations to Leeonie and Neil on their fine work and we look forward to be able to visit the wine bar/café on VT Market weekend of each month - Thursday-Saturday 9am-9pm and Sunday 9am-1pm. The CFA’s Open Day attracted a wide range of visitors with many children enjoying the little red truck. The winner of the wood raffle is a mystery as the winning ticket holder forgot to put their phone number. The Gallery Museum is about to install a new display featuring the VT primary school and its history, along with an exhibition by Jacqui Koolen featuring nature. If you were a student in Violet Town, your photo may be on the wall! Violet Town Kindergarten and Childcare are planning to hold another Mango Fundraiser this year – with mangoes to be delivered in December. Contact the Kinder if you are interested in ordering a tray. Community House is hosting a free two session course in Mental Health First Aid training in September and October for residents of Strathbogie Shire. The course teaches people how to provide initial support to another adult experiencing a mental health problem or crisis until professional help arrives or the crisis resolves. Register with Community House on 5798 1288. Diary Dates: VAMP Open Mic Night, Saturday 23 August from 7pm at Shadforth Reserve clubrooms. Giant Jumble Sale, St Dunstan’s Hall, High St, Saturday 13 September from 10am.
