Harvey Harvest Festival’s grand return has crowds out in force to enjoy massive three day event

The Harvey Harvest Festival’s grand return saw massive crowds out in force across the region enjoying the three day event.

Hundreds poured into Harvey on Sunday to enjoy the height of the celebrations, but with events going on since Friday, there was plenty to do all weekend for visitors.

From the Local Legends concert staring Friday night, the elaborate Long Table Lunch taking place on the Saturday and the crowd favourite grape stomping competition making its phenomenal return, the event had something for everyone.

Harvey Main Street committee president Joe Capogreco gave an emotional speech during the event’s grand opening.

He said the volunteers behind the scenes were the true “backbone” of the event.

“I’m so blessed to have such a strong committee of people that have got the same passion as myself,” he said.

“We’ve got so much culture to share today, and it’s not just Italian culture, we’ve got Filipinos, our local Indigenous and we have food from every corner of the world.”

After his address Mr Capogreco, still emotional, said how happy he was to have the event return to Harvey and how encouraging it was to see so many out enjoying the day’s festivities.

Shire of Harvey deputy president John Bromham also addressed the crowd and said the transition to a three-day festival had been phenomenal.

“Organising is a mammoth effort to bring us all this week of fun,” he said.

“The committee members have played a key role in making Harvey a great place to live and unforgettable place to visit. It is fantastic.

“Remember what a fantastic place you live in, because there’s so much negativity in the world, and when you look around here, you can see how fortunate we really are.”

Festival ambassador Vince Garreffa said he was thrilled to be a part of this year’s event.

“I can’t believe how good this town is,” he said.

“I think we just take it for granted — we’re doing a good job with all these beautiful people here.

“On a world standing, this is as community as you can get.”