THE Maffra Mardi Gras is scheduled to take place on March 18, 2023, with the theme of ‘The Circus!’
The aim of the Mardi Gras is to enable community groups in Maffra and throughout Wellington Shire to raise funds for their organisation. One entrant from each organisation coordinates a fund-raising activity leading up to the Mardi Gras.
This culminates in a family-friendly evening with a street parade, marching band and floats, street and food stalls, entertainment and a lot of fun! The Mardi Gras has been operated by the Rotary Club of Maffra since 2010, but has been in abeyance for the past two years because of government COVID restrictions.
In the past, tens of thousands of dollars have been raised for community projects throughout the shire. Entrants have a six-week window immediately preceding March 18 in which to run their fundraising activities. A small percentage of those funds goes to the Rotary Club of Maffra to further their work in the local community.
Community groups are being asked now to consider entering a contestant. The entrant with the highest total funds will be named the Maffra Mardi Gras Winner for 2023 and receive a trophy.
The closing date for applications is November 4. A time will be arranged for a meeting for all entrants in November before the busy Christmas period, to explain the rules-and-answer questions.
Expressions of interest are also being sought from community groups and schools wishing to enter a float, with a trophy awarded to the best float. Start now to think up your best creative circus-themed ideas!
Street and food stall holders are also being asked for expressions of interest.
Get into the spirit of The Circus and note March 18 in your diaries, to bring back the Maffra Mardi Gras! Enter, or submit an expression of interest for a float or street stall, by sending an email to rcmafframardigras@gmail.com
St Mary’s Primary School principal Darren Stanbury leads the charge on the school’s float during the Rotary Club of Maffra mardi gras parade.
