By Rebecca Fraser
ELVIS was in the building last weekend when more than 15,000 people flocked to Hallam for its inaugural multicultural community fair.
The talented impersonator was one of many big drawcards during the three-day festival.
Event organiser Julie-Anne Peake said the Hallam Recreation Reserve committee, which hosted the event, was extremely pleased with the attendance considering the weekend’s cold weather.
She said they would definitely host a similar event next year.
Irish, Scottish, Ecuadorian and Hungarian dancers entertained audiences with their colourful performances over the weekend and Ms Peake said members of the CFA and local police had also been on stage to perform a jig.
Mark Andrews (aka Elvis leaves his Mark) entertained the crowd on Saturday night along with Queen tribute band Queen Essential, who gave a high-energy performance of songs and medleys from the iconic band’s most popular albums.
Ms Peake said the gumboot toss had also proved popular and many people had enjoyed the array of international food available at various market stalls as well as the carnival rides and novelty booths.
She also thanked the many local businesses that had supported the free event.
“The feedback from the community has been fantastic.
“To get 15,000 people despite the cold weather just goes to show that this is something the community really wants and is prepared to support.
“The event was very family orientated with rides for young adolescents as well as for younger kids.
“It seems that these sort of multicultural festivals are something the community really wants to see more of,” she said.
