By Corey Everitt
Mr Yakkerboo is once again loose on the streets of Pakenham to grace his iconic local festival this weekend.
Yakkerboo Festival returns this Saturday and Sunday. This local event has represented the local spirit for almost 50 years and will do so again in 2025.
In a yearly tradition, Mr Yakkerboo is released from his abode, given a good wash and shown through town before his landing in PB Ronald Reserve.
This year saw a change of hands in Mr Yakkerboo’s faithful guide.
Graeme Moore was his keeper for years before the former mayor’s retirement last year.
Now, Cardinia Mayor Jack Kowarzik has taken on the role of unleashing the iconic creature.
Before, Mr Yakkerboo resided with Mr Moore throughout the year; today, he hibernates at a top-secret, highly secure site.
Mayor Kowarzik provided a good wash for Mr Yakkerboo on Thursday 24 April and placed him out front of Toy World Pakenham for a period so all could see.
Yakkerboo Festival will be held at PB Ronald Reserve and start on Saturday 26 April at 4.30pm until 8.30pm where the night will end with a fireworks display.
Sunday will go from 10am to 4pm and will start with the footpath parade around the reserve.
A host of rides, market stalls, food trucks and performances will be provided throughout the festival.
Entry is free. On Sunday, you can purchase a $15 ticket for unlimited rides through the carnival section.
You can purchase these tickets at tinyurl.com/yakkerboorides
