The Moomba monarchs have been crowned, sporting and entertainment events organised and road closures imminent as Melbourne prepares for its annual Moomba Festival.
Local soccer star Archie Thompson and meteorologist and weather forecaster Jane Bunn will wear the coveted Moomba crowns for the 2019 festival which celebrates the city’s culture, especially its abundant sporting and entertainment credentials.
Sally Capp, the Lord Mayor of the City of Melbourne said the major event brings with it a huge array of free events throughout the city to suit all ages, adding:
“The Moomba weekend is a key calendar event for Melburnians. Last year, the free community festival drew crowds of 1.3 million into the city and generated an economic impact of more than $32 million. With an exciting and jam-packed program of free events all weekend long, we hope to welcome even more people back this year.”
She said this year’s parade through the city will include a new Monarch Float which will feature an elaborate and ornate castle, inspired by the iconic architecture of the Manchester Unity Building in Melbourne.
Poster printing will reveal a huge list of popular activities both on the festival site and on the Yarra River, including highlights such as the Birdman Rally, carnival rides and free film nights.
Melbourne Southbank is among popular vantage points to watch the fireworks which will feature each night of the festival to be held from March 8 to 11.