The free pool party at the Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre proved popular, with hundreds of people enjoying a splash around to celebrate the day.

“It was a huge success. All of the Australian inflatables were quite popular and it was incident free as well which was great,” Northern Grampians Shire sports and aquatics team leader Jake Carr said.

”I think people appreciated us opening the doors for free too, it meant the whole community could enjoy the day without worrying about money.”

Stawell’s Cato Park was the place to be in the evening with face painting, an animal farm, jumping castle and sausage sizzle as well as official ceremonies.

Great Western was also abuzz throughout the day, hosting Show ‘n’ Shine event which proved popular among car enthusiasts and everyday community members alike.

“It was much busier than last year, it’s great to have an event like this bring people to a small town to enjoy the day,” Grampians Car Club’s Geoff Holm said.

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