Editorial: A vintage weekend indeed

Simon Waters

IN YEARS past, one of Vintage Weekend's most enthusiastic fans was my mum.

Weeks beforehand, she would rummage through boxes of fabrics and other such treasures and knock out some amazing period costume. She was an accomplished seamstress and certainly had a flair for the theatrical.

Along with her good friend, Banjo Dave, mum would sing tunes from yesteryear to entertain whoever cared to listen. She was no Vera Lynn, but her enthusiasm and zest for fun was evident.

Mum's not around to attend any more Vintage Weekends. But she would have enjoyed this year's, that's for sure.

I thought of her as we walked down the Avenue on Saturday, inspecting with great admiration and more than a little jealousy the magnificent classic and vintage cars. Three city blocks' worth -- how splendidly it has grown.

And I spotted Banjo Dave, on his own this time, but still belting out those old-time tunes and giving people cause to tap out a rhythm. Good on you, Dave -- I'm picking mum was with you in spirit.

It was a magic day. People literally danced in the streets, others turned rubbish bins into musical instruments, and folk from all walks of life mingled as one community.

Although Sunday's weather wasn't as kind, town remained reasonably vibrant and only two events were cancelled -- a minor miracle given the hammering other regions had taken overnight.

Hopefully, today is more settled, and the remaining Vintage Weekend events are equally well supported.

Whanganui has a vibrancy that hasn't always been so apparent -- rejuvenation projects, river activity, a terrific arts scene, thriving eateries and cafes ... just about everywhere things are looking up.

In the words of one of this weekend's organisers, Sally Jane Smith: "It keeps getting better." And we have events like those that took place this weekend to thank for helping bring that about.

Whanganui is on one hell of a ride. Long may it continue.