Handbell ringing is often classed as a singular instrument but over the long weekend a large crowd gathered in Bonny Hills to play as a team.
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Members of the Handbell Society of Australasia hosted their biennial handbell and chime festival from September 29 until October 3 at The Francis Retreat in Bonny Hills.
The society included members from two local groups Sublime Chimes in Port Macquarie, and Bells of Haven in the Camden Haven.
The Bells by the Beach festival attracted handbell ringers from all over Australia, New Zealand and beyond including the renowned British-born handbell composer, Michael Coe, who visited from France.
In 2017 the festival introduced a new workshop for locals who had no previous experience in playing chimes or handbells to give them the opportunity to get involved in activities.
Hilary Caple attended the festival from Melbourne. She had no prior experience but participated in an introductory workshop.
“It’s definitely interesting and very different,” she said.
Donald Bainbridge from Geelong attended the festival with his wife who played in the handbell choir.
Handbell choir attendees at the festival will showcase their talents in a concert with all the bells and whistles on Sunday afternoon.
For details and tickets visit www.hsafestival.org.au or call Gail on 0408 852 048.
