As the countdown to Christmas ticks on at a quick pace, folk in south-west Victoria will be rushing to finish their shopping or to finalise holiday plans.
But for the residents of Tarrington and nearby Hamilton, the annual tourist attraction of Hay Bale Art provides a light-hearted distraction away from the christmas chaos.
The competition that began at the end of November is part of the town’s Laternenfest celebrating the area’s German history.
Hay bale decoration has met the enthusiasm of the locals, many going all out to create impressive displays along the main drag and nearby streets.
Following a delivery of hay bales, participants will have their artwork on display until the New Year, after which the hay will be returned to the farmers for stock feed.
I first discovered Tarrington’s annual street art last Christmas.
This year I have some photos to share of the creative displays:
Hay bales stack up well as a jazzy red fire truck.A hay sculpture of Yoda hits home that Star Wars fever has hit town. It is this year’s winning entry.Harry Potter fans will hop aboard this one.Who remembers The Rainbow Fish from the famous children’s book?Oscar the Grouch brings Sesame Street cuteness to Tarrington’s Christmas atmosphere.The same goes for this Cookie Monster.The entrant for this giraffe hay bale display really stuck their necks out with their contribution.Inspired by the movie The Adventures of Priscilla – Queen of the Desert, this artwork comes complete with the iconic shoe silhouette and billowing silk train.It goes without saying – chicks rule!But of course! Hay bales in the form of a radio represent a local music station.Australia’s favourite ring-shaped lolly shows up as a colourful upsize version on a quiet street.Every garden needs one of these!No traditional Christmas would be complete without this classic fireplace scene.Sheepish characters as part of a Christmas nativity scene.Looking for a needle in a hay stack?
Love the creativity and wit in these hay bale decorations. I would be hard pressed to pick the winner!
Thank you so much for the enthusiastic support of our little hobby in Tarrington! It is a great feeling to have people appreciate such a wonderful community and the time, effort and care that is put into our creations. 🙂
Hi Stevenson. I appreciate the thank you. As a frequent traveller to the area, I can’t wait to see what the Tarrington community have in store for Hay Bale Christmas 2016.
cloudchaser 
Love the creativity and wit in these hay bale decorations. I would be hard pressed to pick the winner!
Thank you so much for the enthusiastic support of our little hobby in Tarrington! It is a great feeling to have people appreciate such a wonderful community and the time, effort and care that is put into our creations. 🙂
Hi Stevenson. I appreciate the thank you. As a frequent traveller to the area, I can’t wait to see what the Tarrington community have in store for Hay Bale Christmas 2016.