Henry Lawson, one of Australia's most well known and iconic writers, was born in
Grenfell, a town about five hours west of Sydney, in 1867. The town of Grenfell commemorates its most famous son each year with the
Henry Lawson Festival of the Arts.
Art, poetry, writing and Australian talent have been celebrated every Queens Birthday long weekend since 1958 (this weekend is chosen as it close to Lawson's June birthday). Former attendees to the festival include such national luminaries as Chips Rafferty, Barry Humphries and Sigrid Thornton.
In recognition of Lawson's literary legacy, literature and art are the main focus of the festival. Each year, amateur writers and artists are invited to enter verse, short story, painting and photography competitions. There is also a bush poetry session at the Lawson Obelisk, held in true Aussie style around a campfire with damper and billy tea provided.
Other regular events include the always popular guinea pig races, a street procession, wood chopping and the cross country run. The Henry Lawson Festival organisation is still accepting entries for most of their competitions. You can download an information brochure or entry form from the
website.
The Henry Lawson Festival of the Arts 2011 will take place in the town of Grenfell from Saturday 11 June until Monday 13 June.
