Set along the Convict Trail, the annual Wollombi Valley Scarecrow Festival aims to bring the communities of the historic local villages together for a fun-filled event.

Now in its fourth year, the festival showcases the creative and vibrant spirit of the children and adults with individuals and entire schools joining in.

The Scarecrow Festival is also a fundraising event, with all funds raised through voting in the People’s Choice Award being donated to the Hunter Mobile Preschool. The preschool was established to accommodate the needs of young preschool children in outlying and rural areas, in and around the Lower Hunter area.

Visitors can vote for their favourite scarecrow and be in with a chance to win a two-night Hunter Valley getaway. Entry is a gold coin donation placed at local stores.

The festival started on Saturday and ends April 17 at the Wollombi Tavern with a square-dancing finale, and the announcement of the winners.

For more information people can visit the Scarecrow Festival website - www.wollombiscarecrowfestival.com .au