Stats are in: Huge turnout enjoys 5Lands Walk

Local artist Jane Gilling's piece the Pearly Gates was a crowd favourite during the 5 Lands Walk Local artist Jane Gilling's piece the Pearly Gates was a crowd favourite during the 5 Lands Walk

The 2017 5Lands Walk was a heavenly event for many of the more than 20,000 participants, according to organisers. Clear blue skies, crisp, fresh, winter air and a cavalcade of passing whales helped ensure the 12th annual 5Lands Walk was a fabulous, fun, free family day.

For some, coming close to Ms Jane Gillings’ Pearly Gates, one of many stunning sculptures and art installations by talented local artists on display, was particularly special. For others, highlights included the opportunity to explore the stunning coastal scenery from MacMasters Beach to Terrigal, the stylish opening ceremony featuring Yantra de Vilder’s “Ephemera and Connections Exhibition”, performed by a 50 piece choir and orchestra featuring world renowned flautist, Ms Jane Rutter, and guest speaker and local resident, Ms Linda Mottram, the Welcome to Country and Message Stick Ceremonies, the Highland Band and the Candy Striped Circus. Visitors to the exhibition by local artists at the Avoca Surf Club were enthralled by the breathtaking diversity and quality of works on display.

“Created for the community through the assistance of an army of over 700 volunteers, local, State and Federal Government, ethnic communities, Central Coast Health, schools, colleges, associations, local businesses and sponsors, the 5 Lands Walk remains a unique coastal event. “Our aim is to provide the opportunity for locals and visitors to stop, enjoy, appreciate and refresh amongst what is surely one of Australia’s fi nest, most appealing natural environments.

“The fact that in the process we continually expand the numbers of visitors travelling to the Coast to participate in the 5 Lands Walk makes the event of even greater signifi cance, this year contributing over $2,000,000 to the local Visitor Economy. “I thank everyone who contributed, participated, supported or encouraged friends and family to enjoy and experience this year’s spectacular”, said 5 Lands Walk President, Mr Con Ryan. Source:

Media release, Jun 30 David Fellow, 5Lands Walk