Maffra Mardi Gras

The Rotary Club of Maffra Mardi Gras is a family fun day with a carnival like atmosphere. There will be face painting, an animal petting zoo, jumping castles and arcade games , music, a street parade with colourful floats, walking groups and vehicles, and plenty of food and craft stalls. Entrants from local organisations such as community groups and schools take on a six week program of fundraising, culminating in the presentation on the evening of the Mardi Gras. Prizes are also awarded for the best Parade Participants. The Maffra Mardi Gras was commenced in 1957 by a group of local businessmen who gathered together to raise money for the Maffra and District hospital. Each entrant was voted for with a penny. The winner was the one who collected the most penny votes. Over sixty years later, little has changed, with a six week fund raising period where entrants and their committees raise as much money as they can from a variety of activities. In 2018 the event celebrated its Diamond Jubilee, making it the oldest running community event in the Wellington Shire! This years theme is under the sea!