Purple, Proud and Covered in Muck: Community Comes Together for Make March Purple at Poppyfield Commons
There was plenty of laughter, a sea of purple, and one very memorable muck challenge when Epilepsy ACT’s Make March Purple community event came to life last month at Poppyfield Commons.
Held on Sunday 29 March, the family-friendly gathering brought together children, parents, carers and community members for a day of fun, awareness and connection in support of people living with epilepsy. From face painting and giant games to pizzas, popcorn and a community walk, the event was packed with activities designed to bring people together while supporting an important cause.
Book Reading: Marvelous Miles by author Sarah Watts
A special highlight of the day was a reading by local author Sarah Watts, who shared her heartfelt children’s book Marvellous Miles with families in attendance. Sarah’s story, inspired by lived experience, helps children better understand epilepsy through warmth, empathy and storytelling - making it a perfect fit for the spirit of the event.
Make March Purple for Epilepsy: Purple Muck Challenge
One of the biggest crowd-pleasers was the much-anticipated Purple Muck Challenge, which had everyone cheering as participants stepped up to be covered in sticky purple slime for a good cause. Leading the charge were Epilepsy ACT CEO Fiona Allardyce, The Tradies CEO Alison Percival, Amy Dunn and Shakya AneesMuni, who embraced the challenge with great humour and energy, bringing plenty of fun to the afternoon while helping raise awareness and funds for epilepsy support services.
Adding to the occasion was the presence of Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher, alongside Peter Cain MLA, Thomas Emerson MLA, and a representative from Mr David Smith MP’s office, all joining the community to show support for Epilepsy ACT and help shine a spotlight on the importance of awareness, inclusion and advocacy for people and families impacted by epilepsy.
Poppyfield Commons — a new place for our community to connect
The event was also significant for another reason - it marked the first community event held at Poppyfield Commons, a new temporary activation space created to welcome connection, creativity and wellbeing in the heart of Dickson.
Located on the former Dickson Garden Centre site, Poppyfield Commons has been designed as a place for community gatherings, workshops, creative projects, wellbeing activities and other initiatives that bring people together. Launching the space with a purpose-driven event like Make March Purple was a fitting way to begin its story.
Throughout the afternoon, families explored the new space, children played freely, and conversations flowed between neighbours, volunteers and supporters. It was a reminder that when communities have places to gather, meaningful things happen.
At The Tradies, we’re proud to support initiatives that create belonging, raise awareness and strengthen local connections. Partnering with Epilepsy ACT to host Make March Purple at Poppyfield Commons was a celebration of community spirit, shared support and the power of coming together for a cause that matters.