RED suits and white beards will soon dot the Penola Coonawarra district as the annual Stuffed Santa Competition kicks into gear.
Now in its seventh year, the competition is sponsored by the Penola District Business and Tourism Association and Koonara Wines and this year’s theme – Santa goes to Hollywood – is expected to inspire some unique entries.
The judging panel this year includes Olivia Thomas, Penola Primary School principal Anna Copping, Mary MacKillop Primary School principal Maureen Hanrahan and Penola High School teacher Ngaire Benfell.
Deciding on a winner will be no easy feat, given the calibre of entries in previous years.
“The judges will look for creative entries where people have really thought outside the box and humour is also a great draw card,” Ms McCulloch said.
“We are really looking forward to seeing the Hollywood roles that Santa finds himself in.
“Our Stuffed Santa competition is a fabulous draw card for visitors to the region and adds an extra dimension for visitors already coming.
“It’s a great talking point, especially in these days of social media.”
Two years ago the competition attracted national attention after an appearance on Channel 7’s Sunrise.
“Every point of difference to win visitors to Penola and Coonawarra is great and worth the effort and in turn benefits the entire community,” Ms McCulloch said.
Prizes include cash, wine and chocolate.
There will be no distinction between business and home-owner entries, everyone is in with a chance to win the prestigious ‘Stuffed Santa’ trophy.
Entry forms are available from Jen McCulloch at Koonara Wines or Marcia at the Coonawarra store.
Alternatively they can be downloaded from the Penola Community Facebook page.
Entries cost $10 and forms must be submitted and Santas displayed by December 3 for judging on December 17.
Winners will be announced at the Penola Street Christmas Party on December 21 in Penola Memorial Park.
This year’s Christmas street party will start in the park from 5pm and feature the ever-popular bike decorating competition, food by Finns Fine Food, wine by the Coonawarra vignerons and an appearance by Santa himself.
