The paint has dried, the glitter and tinsel has been added and the last minute rehearsals have been happening around town in preparation for one of the most loved elements of the Festival of Busselton, the Float Parade.
As one of the only remaining ‘float parades’ to still be held in Western Australia, Festival President, Bernie Masters said the Float Parade offered a unique opportunity for businesses and their staff, and members of the community, to come together in a truly creative and fun way.
With over 40 floats anticipated today, Saturday, January 12 , old favourites will be represented such as Busselton Jetty Swim, Busselton Repertory Club and Relay For Life but with a large contingent of new and exciting floats parading for the first time.
The 10th Light Horse – Bunbury Troop with members with previous Armed Forces experience will be parading as well.
In addition, the Festival of Busselton have appointed two local artists to design two Spirits, effigies that are set alight at the end of the Festival with the intent that one or more Spirits will rise again at the beginning of the next year’s Festival.
This year Tonia Meerman and Jim Matan will be creating the two Spirits which will be proudly included in the Float Parade.
Festival of Busselton President, Bernie Masters said the Float Parade was the first event to mark the start of the busiest week of activities for each Festival.
“If the weather is hot, we can expect lots of children with lots of water pistols to continue the tradition of having water fights between some of the floats and spectators,” he said.
“A fun event not to be missed!”
The Float Parade will be held at 4pm along Queen Street.