The annual Bairnsdale Christmas Parade has been hailed a resounding triumph, with the community turning out in force last Saturday morning despite the onset of rain.
Hosted by the Bairnsdale Advertiser and Whelans Group, the event brought festive cheer to Main Street with a larger turnout than previous years.
More than 50 entries wound their way through the CBD, marking an increase in participation compared to last year’s event.
The street came alive with a diverse array of vintage cars, trucks, tractors, and go-karts.
Community groups and schools joined the procession, and there were even sightings of “the Pope” alongside the man of the moment, Santa Claus himself.
Local identity Anthony Capobianco kept the crowd entertained with his trademark humorous commentary as the floats made their way past.
Although the parade finished on a slightly damp note due to the weather, it failed to deter onlookers from enjoying the beloved yearly tradition.
Parade organiser Teresa Perez described the event as being full of “noise and colour.”
“Once the parade started, everything flowed really well,” Ms Perez said.
A specific highlight for the crowd was the inclusion of traditional cultural performance.
“I hope everyone enjoyed the Golden Chinese Dragon, it was really cool – it did have to move onto the footpath to avoid the rain, but other than that it was great,” Ms Perez said.
She also acknowledged the new co-hosts for their contribution.
“Whelans Group were amazing, they did very well for their first year.”
Bairnsdale Advertiser managing director, David Zagami, echoed the positive sentiment, labelling it “definitely one of the best parades we’ve had.”
“All of the kids on the floats were great, they were all singing and dancing,” Mr Zagami said.
“Everyone involved in the parade was in good spirits. Whelans Group and the police were really fantastic, very cooperative and organised.”
More photos on pages 14-17.
