By Rowan Forster
This year’s Yakkerboo Festival has been hailed a roaring success – despite some minor traffic snarls.
Thousands flocked to Pakenham’s Bourke Park and Main Street to partake in the 43nd annual event, which has continued to expand in recent years.
Yakkerboo committee president Michael Porter was extremely satisfied with the weekend, citing traffic control as the only issue.
He has implored the community to get involved, amid the committee’s declining size.
“As the shire grows, the festival has to keep getting bigger and better and with that comes more work,” he said.
“The biggest problem with that is that the committee keeps getting smaller.
“We struggled in manpower this year and we’re really looking for new people to spread the workload.
“Other than the car par incident, the day was very successful and we trust everyone enjoyed themselves.”
According to Mr Porter, James Street’s underground car park entry was closed when it should have remained open – creating congestion for those trying to leave.
However, festival goers have expressed overwhelming praise for the event.
“It was a great day out for the kids and one of the biggest turnouts we’ve seen so far,” Pakenham’s Sarah White said.
“Hopefully it will continue to grow in the years to come.”
Yakkerboo’s Saturday night entertainment was described as the highlight, boasting the biggest turnout of the weekend.
“The Saturday night was a huge success,” Mr Porter said.
“This year we decided to put a band on and have some food trucks and it worked.
“The park was just so full, we’ll definitely be doing that again.”
Those who are interested in joining the Yakkerboo Festival Committee can contact admin@yakkerboo.org.au.
