THE NAMING sponsor of the Mount Gambier Christmas Parade has commended the hard-working efforts of schools, community groups and sporting clubs at this year’s event.
Thousands of people lined Commercial Street on Saturday for the iconic event’s 60th anniversary, with a bumper number of entries which included 17 local schools.
This year’s NF McDonnell & Sons’ Toy Timber Town float sparked a new element of festivity, with handmade wooden toys crafted by the Mount Gambier Men’s Shed adorning the moving display.
NF McDonnell business manager Ken Sanders said the float paid homage to the strong ties the business had with the forestry industry.
Mr Sanders said the toys would be donated to a local charity or shelter in need.
“I went to the Men’s Shed and ran a few ideas past them and then they came back with ideas as well,” he said.
“I think it gave them something positive to focus on while also creating interaction through us and the members.”
Men’s Shed toys manager Ian Bond said members constructed a dollhouse, a seat rocker, a yellow tipper truck and an orange and green chair for the float.
“They took over three months, part-time when we had time to do it,” Mr Bond said.
“Hopefully next year we will be able to do it again as it was well worth the effort.”
Mr Sanders said a highlight was seeing the original Christmas parade queen from 1965 on a float.
He said it was amazing to see the community’s support behind the parade.
“I would be confident in saying it was the largest crowd I have seen yet,” he said.
“When driving past the spectators, there were no gaps in the crowd.
“It is a real tradition for people and I know people were there getting chairs ready at 8am in the morning to secure their spot.”
City of Mount Gambier community events team leader Denise Richardson said the crowd was bigger than ever and the smiling faces and enthusiasm of the children was a delight for her to see.
Compton’s Christmas Message by Compton Primary School was named most outstanding entry, claiming the top prize of $750.
The entry focused on the importance of spending time with family and friends and spreading Christmas cheer.
“The float featured a display of large photographs showcasing the history of the parade and the judges were impressed by the colourful display of Christmas costumes and presents, as well as the singing,” Ms Richardson said.
Morris and mates’ Naughty Elves display was awarded the best Christmas theme prize and St Martin’s Lutheran College won the best school entry for its King of the Jungle float.
The Mount Gambier Karting Club, Mount Gambier and Districts Maternity/Pediatric Unit and Geelong West Brass Band were also awarded for their efforts.
Moorak Primary School and Pre-School received the encouragement award, while Nangwarry Primary School won the best non-city entry.
Recycled Runway won the best recycled resources entry.
