First up, and a great event that encompasses art, history, open gardens, community, food, wine and setting fire to stuff is the Hillview Sculpture Biennial in Sutton Forest. On Saturday, April 28 you can get along to this unique historic property for the launch of the sculpture festival at 3pm, then stay for a community bonfire with music, food and wine. Two years ago the inaugural bonfire event was a huge success so it's a ticketed event to help manage numbers. If you can't get to the launch the festival is open for a month.

If the music at Hillview got you moving, perhaps it's time to learn a new dance form? There is a dedicated flamenco studio in the Highlands teaching dance, music and Spanish language for adults and children. Flamenco Solymar has a range of classes kicking off next week. 

If you're feeling inspired by the art and music you could also submit work for the inaugural $2000 Wingecarribee Drawing Prize to be held at the Bowral Art Gallery. Entries are due Wednesday, May 2 and the launch is Friday, May 18. This is also the launch of a rebooted push for a dedicated regional gallery in the southern highlands.

After all these events and looking for some feedback on your photos and ways to build your skills you should probably get along to the local Southern Highlands Photographic Society. They are incredibly active group of enthusiastic shooters who organise trips, set assignments and guest lecturers of incredibly high calibre. The next guest speaker, on May 15, is accomplished international shooter John Swainston who is also the president of the Australian Institute of Professional Photographers; presenting and critiquing his architectural work.

For information on any of the events or groups listed Google is your friend or drop me a line on hamish@shotbyhamish.com