The Christmas Parade in Mount Gambier today was a lot of fun. Sixty-two groups proceeded down Commercial Street including entries from schools, community organisations, brass bands, individuals and more.

I was able to compare it with the St Barbara’s Festival in Kalgoorlie, which occurs in the first week of December.

Mount Gambier’s effort is bigger, better and more inclusive. Kalgoorlie’s parade focuses on the mining industry and there are big trucks, which make a special highlight. In Mount Gambier it’s more a community event.

The crowd was big, possibly 10,000 people or more. The weather was cool and cloudy, ideal for the many little ones who enjoyed the occasion.