Event ‘not the last’

UNDER ATTACK: Marlaena Payne's daughter Anilliea Payne enjoyed wrestling Riot City Wrestling first lady Savannah Summers to the ground at the New Year's Eve celebrations at Vansittart Park on Monday night.

UNDER ATTACK: Marlaena Payne’s daughter Anilliea Payne enjoyed wrestling Riot City Wrestling first lady Savannah Summers to the ground at the New Year’s Eve celebrations at Vansittart Park on Monday night.

ONE South East community member is “damn sure” the 2018 Vansittart Park New Year’s Eve celebrations will not be the last.

“This will not be the last celebration and I will go on the committee next year,” Mount Gambier resident Marlaena Payne said.

“I am damn sure this event will continue.

“It offers so much variety and options to suit everybody.”

One thing Ms Payne would alter if she had the chance would be the catering options available.

“I personally think there needs to be more food stalls with more options,” she said.

“I now have IBS and can no longer eat gluten, so it makes it hard for me to find something to eat here.

“I would like to see a variety of foods catering for those with dietary needs, including gluten-intolerant and diabetic-friendly options.”

Ms Payne has been attending the event for six years.

“I think the event has stayed the same throughout the time I have attended,” she said.

“There are always a range of options available that vary from year to year.

“My children really get into the Riot City Wrestlers in particular and love watching them.”

The enclosed children’s area remains appealing to parents.

“The kids area lets them do their thing without me having to worry they will run off,” Ms Payne said.

“The music is also great as background music if you are off in another area.

“It is everything in one area basically.”

Although some people have claimed the event is “pricey”, Ms Payne believes the gate prices could “rise and still be affordable”.

“I have a family of eight and it only cost me $45 to get into the gate,” she said.

“It is perfect, people say it is expensive and I do not think that at all.

“The children get all the activities and performances for free and you only have to pay for your entry.”