The first recorded ‘scarecrows’ were along the Nile River over 3,000 years ago. They were used to protect wheat fields from flocks of quail. Egyptian farmers put wooden frames in their fields and covered them with nets. The farmers hid in the fields and scared the quail into the nets. Then they took them home and ate them for dinner!

Balingup scarecrows have a more festive purpose! Appearing 4 to 5 times a year they mark the many great events hosted in the townsite. The current band of scarecrows have come out to celebrate the Balingup Small Farm Field Day which is held annually in April.