Begonia Festival: return to glory

WHETHER you’re walking, driving or riding on a float, the journey down the road can be nerve-wracking for any Begonia Festival parade entrant.At least that is how I felt six years ago when I was asked to lead the 2005 parade as the Begonia Princess.This city may be your home and you may know half the spectators, but it doesn’t stop the butterflies from creeping in to your stomach, even if you are driving down in a convertible.This year’s experience would have been the same for many of the entrants who travelled down Wendouree Parade as more than 5000 people watched on.For the primary schools pupils, it could very well have been the first time they had been on show in front of an audience of thousands.But the nerves didn’t stop the energy and spirit of yesterday’s parade entrants from permeating throughout the lake precinct.The consensus was clear, The Courier Begonia Parade had returned to its former glory.Vintage vehicles, lively lions, plush puppies, musical moments and colourful costumes combined to create a rejuvenated parade.Lake Gardens resident Merryn Ford said she was glad the parade was held on Wendouree Parade.“We’ve been coming for the last 10 to 12 years and the weather makes a difference, as does the full lake,” Ms Ford said.“It’s not just the parade but there are lots of stalls and activities for the kids so that brings families out.“The main thing is having it back here, and having the parade on Monday has certainly revived it.”Ballarat’s Craig Lightfoot remembered when he starred in the parade almost 35 years ago upon his school float.“This is the first time we’ve been back for years,” Mr Lightfoot said.“The kids love the whole thing and it’s good to see the community groups come along.“I think it’s back to where it was.”Ballarat mayor Craig Fletcher agreed the parade topped off what was a fantastic weekend.“The quality of entrants has been unbelievable. There has been a lot of hard work and dedication by everyone,” Cr Fletcher said.“The whole weekend has been a growth in numbers from what we’ve seen in the past.”