Bairnsdale came alive with colour on Easter Saturday in support of Mount Taylor Fire Brigade.
Adults and kids of all ages walked, skipped, ran and jumped through an explosion of colour in the Colour Ya World 5km fun run.
The event was a joint venture between Apex Club of Bairnsdale and The HIIT Factory Bairnsdale and was hailed a massive success attracting over 600 people and raising an incredible $8000 for Mount Taylor brigade.
The event was originally planned to be held on the Easter long weekend in 2020 but was cancelled two weeks out because of COVID-19.
Kass O'Kelly from Apex said, "Early in 2020 after the bushfires, Mhairi McShane owner of the HIIT Factory Bairnsdale had an idea to bring back some fun and colour to East Gippsland and give the community a time to come together. They approached club members of the Apex Club of Bairnsdale to collaborate to bring an amazing event to the community.
"It has been 18 months like no other. Bushfires to COVID, but we were able to make the event happen this year. The turnout was amazing and to see the joy on people's faces was priceless."
Brendan O'Kelly from Apex thanked the many businesses and volunteers who assisted them with items to make the event such a success,
"We really couldn't do it without their support in the lead-up and on event day," Brendan said. "If you go by the smiles on all the participants' faces, the event certainly hit its mark in bringing fun and colour into the community and we will be looking to make it an annual event on the East Gippsland Calendar."
Mount Taylor Fire Brigade Captain Geoff Crane said the event was incredible and an amazing opportunity for the community and brigade members to come together and have some fun.
"Thank you to Apex Club of Bairnsdale and The HIIT Factory Bairnsdale for putting on such a well-run event," Geoff said.
"The response from the community and visitors to the area was overwhelming. We are very grateful to receive the $8000 in funds raised.
"We are looking at upgrading our oldest brigade-owned fire truck and this contribution will certainly help."
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