Hot in the city: Parade participants march down Pakington St. See more of Tommy Ritchie’s Pako Festa pics by searching ID number 77819 at starphotos.com.au.
JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
HOT weather contingency plans helped crowds cope with extreme heat at last weekend’s 30th Pako Festa, according to the festival’s director.
Luisa La Fornara said extra umbrellas, fans and water had been stockpiled.
“It was a massive day but we’ve had a lot of positive feedback considering the heat.
“Some told us it was the best and most colourful parade ever. The community supports us rain, hail or shine and that’s very comforting to know.”
Ms La Fornara said participants attended in “shifts” to cope with the weather.
“The 30 Carmens were amazing and the Home and Away stars attracted a great crowd. The street performers and pavement artists did a wonderful job considering the conditions.”
Ms La Fornara thanked the community, corporate sponsor BCC/Betta and local, state and federal governments.
Geelong Police Acting Senior Sergeant Peter Griffiths said crowd behaviour was good, while attendance was on par with previous years.
“A lot of pre-planning went in so we were very happy with the result.”
