DIRNDLS OUT FOR THE DAY
IT was not quite Munich, but gallons of beer and bratwurst set the scene for revellers as they took to Townsville’s main street to mark Oktoberfest.
The annual celebration attracted more than 1200 partygoers who donned their dirndls and lederhosen as the group spilled on to Flinders Street.
Townsville man Jack Booth opted for something different wearing a full Heineken ensemble as an ode to the golden brew.
Mr Booth said he chose the outfit because of its links to Germany.
“It is the best beer, especially for Oktoberfest,” he said.
“We’re appreciating the culture of Germany too because Oktoberfest comes from Germany.”
Unfortunately for Mr Booth, the lager actually hails from the Netherlands.
For months, strict coronavirus restrictions have hampered night-life and quelled spirits at licensed venues.
Mr Booth said he didn’t think this dampened spirits yesterday.
“Look around, there are people everywhere,” he said.
“Yeah, not being able to dance puts a dull on things but not to the point where it cancels out the whole mood.”
Brewery tavern manager Dave Kearney said the event, which had been in the pipeline for almost a year, completely sold out.
He said a lot of work went on behind the scenes to bring it to life during the pandemic.
“It was always going to go ahead in some form,” he said.
“We always look for a way around things for a way to operate the event and remain compliant.
“You can’t just give up.”