SWISS and Italian Festa organisers have labelled this year’s event as “the best yet”.
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Vice president Ian Tinetti said the grand parade, fireworks, open gardens and art show were usual highlights – with the heritage attractions enticing more families than ever.
“We really wanted to give something to the community for free – a great event, and I think we succeeded again this year,” he said.
“The kids just had so much fun at the family event and I really do think it was the best we’ve had in 23 years.”
President Ian Head added the parade had dodged all the heavy rain and had attracted a “quality crowd”.
“It’s hard to estimate numbers but we had at least 3000 for the parade which was fantastic to see,” he said.
Mr Head said the annual event was built on the hard work of local volunteers.
“We have such strong support from local artists and everyone really wants this to succeed,” he said.
“The celebration of heritage gives children a first hand application of the Italian skills they learn at school and they can see all of those relevant costumes and dances.”
It brought great economic benefit too, Mr Tinetti said, with all the Hepburn Springs accommodation venues booked out over the weekend.
“That’s why we separated it from the Rotary Art Show event, to give people the chance to really experience both events as a whole.”