Auto collectors club dresses up cars for the Christmas pageant

This story was contributed by Liz Minge.

Christmas spirit has swept through Murray Bridge as the town celebrated one of its largest ever Christmas parades and riverfront festivals on November 15.

Clear skies and cool weather drew record crowds and parade entries, for an afternoon and evening packed with colour, music and festive excitement.

Most spectators and parade participants well remembered the previous year’s
celebrations, when temperatures reached a scorching 40 degrees, forcing many school children and bands to withdraw from entering.

Not so this year, however; the temperate conditions suited spectators, drivers and their vehicles.

Although the parade was scheduled to start at 4pm, families and friends arrived well before the first float arrived.

Many took advantage of securing the best vantage points along the route from South Terrace and Pine Park, along Bridge Street and Mary Terrace towards Sturt Reserve

Children were perched on shoulders, or sat patiently waiting - clutching empty bags and hats in anticipation of the traditional lolly shower, while some of the younger ones were curled up in prams.

They didn’t have to wait long and as soon as the music started and the first floats rolled into view, even the drowsiest little ones sat upright, eyes wide with the unmistakable spark of oncoming Christmas excitement.

As sweets were sent scurrying across the chalk-decorated bitumen, one could not ignore the good natured scrambling and jostling as the youngsters darted after them like seagulls to chips.

Despite the bustling activity however, the crowds remained notably polite and cheerful, with parents and volunteer marshals praising the friendly, festive atmosphere.

Brightly decorated floats, marching performers, dancers and costumed characters created a vibrant procession, with community groups, schools, service clubs and local businesses all taking part.

Among the many standout entries were the four local Auto Collectors’ Car Club members, each showcasing a uniquely decorated classic vehicle.

Claude and Liz Minge brought out their 1952 Mercedes Benz -resplendent with its enormous red bow and decorations, while Bruce and Marcia Eldridge opted for a more modern Mercedes, complete with Christmas signage and decorations.

Peter Mach drove his 1967 Volkswagon beetle and Jan Hall and Brenda Cowie made up the foursome in Jan’s 1951 Morris Minor (affectionately known as Morrie).

All vehicles behaved well on the day without fault, overheating or breakdown-something we all aim for on this sometimes “once-a-year” outing.

The gleaming bonnets, festive tinsel and imaginative Christmas themes earned loud applause as they cruised along the parade route, adding a touch of nostalgia and creativity to the afternoon.

Members of the ACCMB and their angelic helpers described the energy as electric and one of the most enthusiastic atmospheres they’ve seen in Murray Bridge for years.

Following the parade, the riverfront festival kept the momentum going with food stalls, live entertainment and activities for families.

The Rotary Club of Mobilong’s famous donuts proved a runaway hit once again, with queues snaking across the lawn as the sugary/cinnamon-aroma tempted festival-goers of all ages (including a couple of the car club members who will remain anonymous).

As twilight settled, families spread picnic blankets and set up outdoor chairs to enjoy the music, mix with neighbours and friends and await the fireworks grand finale.

The first explosion of colour drew a collective gasp from the crowds and what followed was nothing short of spectacular.

The amazing fireworks danced above the Murray, reflecting on the water and lighting up the faces of the delighted spectators below.

With its blend of tradition, community spirit and festive fun, the Murray Bridge Christmas pageant once again proved why it remains a cherished highlight of the local calendar, bringing together happy, excited people for a night of joy and celebration.

By evening’s end, most of the younger children had dozed off once more, this time with sticky fingers, full bellies and smiles of satisfaction, while parents agreed the event had recaptured the magic of a true community Christmas celebration.

With record turnout, record participation and a town buzzing with anticipation for the festive season, Murray Bridge has definitely kicked off Christmas in spectacular fashion.

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