Fabulous fashion at Stawell Gift

Stawell Easter gift carnival organisers are in final preparation mode as they prepare for an influx of athletes, families, sporting enthusiasts and holiday-makers for the annual meeting.

While Friday night includes a host of activities at Stawell Town Hall – including a calcutta, call of the card and hall of fame presentations – Saturday provides the first opportunity to see the runners in action.

Although much of the attention surrounds the gift heats, the spotlight temporarily shifts to the garden area during the afternoon.

Saturday is ladies day at Central Park, highlighted by an increasingly popular fashions on the field competition.

Long-time organiser Joan Macpherson said the competition continued to go from strength to strength.

“Over the years we’ve got rid of the short skirts and the ladies are continuing to pull together looks you would see at the autumn or spring racing carnivals, depending on the weather,” she said.

“Judging is such a difficult job because of the increasing number of entrants plus the high quality of their outfits. They all look so lovely and continue to raise the bar.

“The men look great too. The men’s section is also growing. It’s a lot of fun and it always draws a big crowd. There are some fantastic prizes on offer, too.”

Lady of the day will win $1000 and the Billie Jo Petersen memorial sash, named in honour of the late sprinter and fashions on the field entrant.

Second prize is two pairs of Maui Jim sunglasses, third prize is one pair of Maui Jim sunglasses and the best hat winner will collect a $100 Gift Hotel voucher. The men’s winner will receive a $100 Gift Hotel voucher and a pair of Maui Jim sunglasses. Entrants will be judged at 3.30pm.

“Being ‘ladies day’, the first 200 women through the gate will receive a complimentary glass of sparkling wine,” Mrs Macpherson said.

Sunday is Cadbury Family Day and children will have an opportunity to participate in an Easter egg hunt, athletic clinic and Kelly Sports activities.

Monday will feature Stawell Gift and women’s gift semi-finals and finals.

Mrs Macpherson encouraged people to make the most of an action-packed timetable.

People can visit www.stawellgift.com for more information.