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About the Festival The K’Ozzie Fest is an annual, vibrant celebration of the Snowy Mountains, Australia’s diverse multicultural society and the ideals of democracy and freedom. It unites many forms of art and performance – such as music, song, dance, poetry, painting and photography – in a series of colourful, three-day-long events. This year’s festival celebrates the 170th anniversary of the discovery and naming of Mt. Kosciuszko, as well as the 200th anniversary of the birth of Chopin. Who was Kosciuszko? Get to know the man behind the mountain by visiting our special section devoted to this remarkable individual. Australia's highest mainland mountain is a magical place: a treasure that belongs to people everywhere. It is a symbol of democracy, freedom and justice. Come and join us to mark 170 years, celebrate our mountain and honour its namesake! History  The first festival was held in 2007. Named the ‘Mound and Mount Kosciuszko Festival’, it aimed to connect two important landmarks in Australia and Poland: Mount Kosciuszko in Australia’s Snowy Mountains and the Kosciuszko Mound in Krakow, Poland.In 2008, the second festival brought together even more performers and community members in Jindabyne and Cooma. Photography, music and poetry contests were held in conjunction with the events. In 2009, the festival’s name was changed to ‘K’Ozzie Fest’. Again, it featured a wonderful constellation of artists and an international art competition. A book, entitled Paul Edmund Strzelecki and His Team: Achieving Together, was also published to mark the occasion. Aims  The K’Ozzie Fest celebrates the unique history and makeup of alpine and rural Australia, as well as the diverse communities that share it. It fosters community pride, builds inter-generational bonds and strengthens appreciation for different cultures and the environment.The festival also raises awareness about important individuals, such as Tadeusz Kosciuszko and Sir Paul Edmund Strzelecki. It recognises the rich history of the area and the values of many cultures. Organisation The events are planned and conducted by the Puls Polonii Cultural Foundation Inc., in association with the Polish-Australian Internet Newspaper Puls Polonii and the Polish folkloric ensemble Lajkonik. |