Joanna Tucker, Yorke Peninsula Country Times
Kernewek Lowender Copper Coast Cornish Festival was once again a major success, with visitors travelling to the region from far and wide.
The 2025 edition of the biennial event was held last week, Monday to Sunday, May 12-18.
An estimated 30,000 people attended the seven-day festival, with more than 500 entries in the Classic Cavalcade of Cars and Motorcycles on Sunday.
Kernewek Lowender committee president Lynn Spurling said it was fantastic to see so many interstate, intrastate and local visitors enjoying the full program.
“With our repeat iconic events well supported, it was also great to see everyone enjoying the other events on offer,” she said.
Heritage and community on show
“We are so pleased that the community had the opportunity to showcase and celebrate our unique heritage, culture and traditions with visitors,” Ms Spurling continued.
“The festival would not be possible without the support of our local businesses, community groups and volunteers who welcome festival attendees and ensure they all have an unforgettable experience.
“A special thanks to the all the schools and for the involvement of the students and staff.”
Although the 2023 festival had been quite a damp one, Ms Spurling said this year was blessed with fabulous weather for the majority of the festival.
“It was unfortunate that the rain came at certain times — but it didn’t disrupt anything and we so desperately need it that I don’t think there were too many complaints,” she said.
“Although there was rain prior to the parade on Friday, it cleared for it to take place but it was unfortunate that it poured down on the maypoles at 2pm.
“Well done to the kids and staff for continuing and still enjoying the experience.”
Rain was avoided for both maypole events at Kadina and Wallaroo, with the Wallaroo Street Party location offering plenty of verandah cover so patrons could enjoy the entertainment regardless.
Ms Spurling also said the economic benefits for the community were reported to be well beyond than that expected.
“Pasty sales were higher than anticipated, ticketed events (concerts, displays, exhibitions) were well supported, the souvenirs and Swanky recorded good sales and businesses reported brisk trade over the past week,” she said.
“Kernewek Lowender means Cornish happiness and we hope everyone who attended experienced some happiness during the past week.”
Local winners celebrated
As part of the Cornish Festival, the Kernewek Lowender committee coordinated a window display competition across Kadina, Moonta and Wallaroo.
Enfield Furnishers took out the top spot in Kadina, the Red Cross shop was named Moonta’s winner, and Triple B Cafe claimed first place in Wallaroo.
At the Kernewek Lowender Art Prize opening night on Thursday, May 15, attendees also cast their votes for the People’s Choice award.
Out of 107 paintings entered, Bruce Davey’s oil painting Kimberley Colours received the most votes.
Mr Davey also won the oil painting category with the same piece.
This article appeared in Yorke Peninsula Country Times, 20 May 2025.
