Community open day back
Winton Open Day is a local institution. Organised by the Winton Business Association and Winton Area Promotions Ltd, the annual event has been a big hit for over 30 years.
Business association chairman Chris Menzies says the town can look forward to another action-packed, family-friendly open day.
Its success lies in its fun-loving family and community spirit. The town comes alive with a carnival-like atmosphere. There are loads of activities, music and entertainment for all ages, stalls and shops trading their wares, and the traditional crowd favourite – the Santa Parade.
On this Sunday, November 18, from 10am – 4pm, the event is a great way to promote Winton. It’s also an opportunity for community groups to fundraise and enhance their profile, and for businesses and other groups to open their premises and showcase themselves.
Fire Station/Winton Police
Winton Fire Station will be open for the public to visit to find out what life is like in a fire station, what the crews get up to, and different jobs they attend. The MBA firefighters’ demonstration is scheduled for 11am next to the station. And pop along to Winton Police Station to see dog handlers, Armed Offenders Squad members, and more.
Blue Duck Winton Teddy Bears Picnic
A firm festival favourite, the picnic gives bears at all stages of wear and tear a chance to step out into the fresh air, gather on blankets in the Anzac Oval and enjoy a noon picnic with their little owners.
Street Parade
The grand parade begins at 2pm and will wind its way down the main street. Floats of all shapes and sizes will provide a colourful display to the delight of throngs of people lining the street.
Drive a Digger Competition
It may be a small toy to a heavy equipment operator, but driving a digger can be a tricky for the uninitiated. The Drive a Digger Competition was such a success at last year’s open day that it is back again. The competition requires people to complete several tasks using two little diggers. And it’s free.
Winton Library
It’s all fun and games at Winton Library from 10am – 3pm with the ‘‘007 vs Johnny English’’ activities.
Crafts, Produce & Retail
Head to Winton Memorial Hall to browse the craft market and produce stalls. Winton’s retail sector will be open so there will wares galore and opportunities for Christmas shopping.
Winton’s Middle Pub is the scene for woodchopping demonstrations. Photos with Santa are being taken at the Memorial Hall, and Central Southland Presbyterian Church is the wet-weather venue for Anzac Oval activities. Bands and musicians will entertain throughout the day, and plenty of refreshments will be available.