IT IS starting to look a lot like Christmas in Penola and Coonawarra, with stuffed Santas soon to adorn the landscape.
Families and businesses from across the region are busy creating Christmas-themed scenes complete with a jolly Father Christmas as part of the annual Stuffed Santa competition.
Event organiser Jen McCulloch said around 40 entrants participated in the competition each year with similar numbers expected in this year’s competition.
“We are really looking forward to seeing all of the entries up around town,” she said.
“Hopefully people will have them up by now – we want to see all of the Santas as soon as possible.
“I think having them up gets more people from the greater Limestone Coast into town so they can take it all in.
“Plus while they are here they might do some shopping or head to a winery.
“It is a real drawcard.”
After winning the competition on multiple occasions, the Lambert family has now been inducted to the hall of fame, with Alex Lambert named as one of this year’s judges.
School principals Anna Copping, Olivia Thomas and Nicole Coote will also be part of the judging panel.
“Judging will take place on December 17 with the winners announced at the Penola Christmas Street Party,” Ms McCulloch said.
“This year the theme is ‘anything goes’ so we are hoping to see some really creative Santas.
“People can use their imagination and do whatever they like.”
Entries must be displayed until December 28.
The top three entrants will take home a share of $350 plus wine and chocolates with a trophy for the winner.
