Makers’ trail hits the mark

Capel shire president Murray Scott has described the inaugural Capel Makers’ Trail as the “most enjoyable two days I have had in a long time” after its successful launch at the weekend.

“I did not know we had so many people in our local government area,” he said.

More than 75 artists and makers from around the Capel shire featured in the event, which drew more than a thousand people through the doors of local studios and galleries, much to do the delight of organisers.

“It was an overwhelming success,” trail co-ordinator Tracie Walsh said.

“Capel Community Centre had over 500 people come in over the three days, Peppi Community Centre had 300, Capel RSL Hall had 338 and the Dalyellup Community Centre had 70 people within the first 45 minutes.

“There was no negative feedback and people were using the trail map to pick their locations and create their own trail.”

The Capel Shire Council was quick to jump on the event bandwagon when Ms Walsh first pitched the idea more than a year ago, contributing $5000 through its community grants scheme as well as donating some of the venues free of charge.

Cr Scott seconded Ms Walsh’s description of the feedback being overwhelming and said what started out as a one-day plan quickly became two days worth of fun.

“Every place you went to, whether it was a home studio, the community halls or wherever, they were more than happy and willing to tell you what they do and how they do it,” he said.

“When it comes back to us (the council) again, we’ll be looking at it very seriously because I think it’s only going to grow.

“An event like this brings the community together ... it’s magnificent what we have in our area.”