Jeff wins again!

THE streets and surrounds of Port Fairy were abuzz with people, colour, sights and entertainment over the long weekend as thousands enjoyed the annual ‘Winter Weekends’ festivities.

By Staff Writer

‘Jeff’ made it back-to-back victories at the Port Fairy Dachshund Dash last weekend, taking out the Over 2 category. Jeff (who last year won the under 2 final) is pictured with proud owners Ben Holt and Kate Fergusson along with Damien Gleeson from event sponsor, Community Bank Port Fairy and District.

Not even threatening rain clouds could dampen the spirits of young and old who gathered to enjoy a variety of activities, ranging from poi twirling, vinyl swapping and toy making through to markets, art displays, basket weaving and music.

With so much on offer across the weekend, young and old were treated to non-stop entertainment.

The festival kicked off with an opening night party at the newly-refurbished Port Fairy Railway Goods Shed which saw visitors enjoying live music and an array of food and drinks.

A highlight of the celebrations for many was once again the annual running of the Dachshund Dash on the football ground on Sunday afternoon.

Despite earlier light showers, the sun managed to come out mid-afternoon just in time for the running of the under two, over two and mixed breeds races – along with the always-entertaining Dachshund fashion parade.

“The Winter Weekends is a truly amazing event for Port Fairy and it’s fantastic to see so many people in and around town,” Damien Gleeson, Community Bank Port Fairy and District said.

“We are very proud to be the major sponsors of the Dash because this really IS the race that stops the nation.”

Winter Weekends committee coordinator Melanie Schultz said her group of volunteers had spent countless hours planning the event and were “absolutely thrilled” with the large crowds that gathered to enjoy all that was on offer.

“Friday night’s opening event at the at the Railway Goods Shed really kicked things off and it was great to see so many people there enjoying the live music and taking the opportunity to see inside the shed,” Ms Schultz said.

“The shed was also the venue for Saturday’s young maker’s market and the Dirty Angel comedy night.

“We’ve received wonderful feedback from so many people who were in Port Fairy over the weekend, both locals and visitors, and to see so many happy, smiling faces really does make all the work worthwhile.

“We were very fortunate with the weather and we’re all very thankful to our many sponsors who helped make the event run so smoothly.”