This weekend thousands flocked to Queanbeyan Showground for the signature winter event 'Queanbeyan Christmas in July – Winter Dream'. People from all over the region enjoyed market stalls, Christmas inspired food and kid's activities. The surprisingly warm weather ensured crowds of over 15,000 people were drawn to the mid-winter event in the sunshine.
The event run by Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council has seen success in highlighting local 'makers, creators and innovators' for the past four years at the Showground.
"We're particularly proud of how the event is a platform for dozens of community groups to raise awareness and funds," said Laura Shelley, Team Leader for QPRC Events.
The combination of fur and Christmas themed outfits kept the crowds entertained as part of the Oodle (Poodle breeds) races and dog fashion competitions.
"This is the first time we have had Oodle races and judging by the reactions it should be a popular inclusion for next year," said Rhiannon Beach, race organiser and owner of Pups4Fun.
Judge of the best decorated Christmas Cake and Gingerbread House, local baking identity and owner of Surrender to Cake, Monique Roeton said "there is certainly a lot of talented people in this community."
Couples also came together to kiss for a good cause and raise money for HOME in Queanbeyan by breaking the (unofficial) world record for the most people to kiss under mistletoe… well almost.
"In the weeks leading up to the event we realised that sourcing mistletoe was tricky with some suggesting that the plant could be harmful to dogs. Not wanting to give up we decided to give the (unofficial) world record an Aussie twist and have 'the most people to kiss under the gum leaves'. The result was 30 couples locked lips as part of a new Australian tradition," said Laura Shelley.
Tim Overall, Mayor of Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council, said that the event has grown significantly in the last four years which is a reflection of the growing popularity of the Queanbeyan-Palerang region.
"It is also pleasing see the success of the event being recognised as a finalist in the Local Government NSW Awards in the category of economic contribution," Mayor Overall said.
Did you take your merry self to Christmas in July on 7 July at Queanbeyan Showground?
For a chance to win a Christmas in July dinner package from Contentious Character Winery valued at $250, let us know your thoughts via the survey at https://bit.ly/2HmALUt as planning begins for 2020.
