Wednesday, 19 March 2025

 Michaela SETTLE (Eureka) (10:09): On the weekend I attended the Ballan Autumn Festival. It may have rained on our parade, but it was still a fabulous turnout. This event has been running for many years, and each and every year it brings great joy and many visitors to the gorgeous town of Ballan. I want to give a special shout-out to the committee of volunteers, who worked tirelessly to make this a great event, Miranda, Kevin and all those who make this day so special; and a nod to the sponsors – it would not happen without you; and long-term supporters like Zest Licensed Cafe. The Ballan Autumn Festival is an annual celebration of local culture, creativity and community, and it is one of the oldest regional country fairs in the Moorabool shire. With around 5000 people flocking to the festival each year, it is also one of the most popular.

I had the honour of judging the parade. It is always tough as everyone puts such an effort into their costumes. A big shout-out goes to the community band as best community group, Studio C for best entertainment, the pink Thunderbird for best vintage car and Myrniong Primary School for best school. King’s Horses Equestrian Society won the most original, and Ballan Community Kindergarten won best overall. I give a really heartfelt congratulations to everyone involved, from volunteers, committee members, stallholders, sponsors and all the wonderful folk in the parade.