FunLoong fun in the mall

MORE than one thousand children and families filled Hargreaves Mall on Saturday for the return of the traditional FunLoong Fun Day.

An archery course, arts and crafts workshops, a climbing wall, skating workshops, an animal farm, airbrush tattooing, and circus-themed activities were all on offer.

Local service organisations were part of the action, including YMCA Bendigo, AFL Central Victoria, Bendigo Toy Library, Connected Circus, and the CFA’s Golden Square brigade.

Members of the Rotary Club of Kangaroo Flat operated a sausage sizzle, and community director Judy Kidman said it was an enjoyable, well-attended day.

“It was a real good family day. We were near the roundabout end of the mall and the queue was nearly all the way back to Mitchell Street waiting for the snags,” she said.

“I was most impressed with the bubble man. The kids were all about, chasing them and popping them. Others were riding on the police car and fire truck.

“It was definitely a successful return with some great entertainment, and we’d nearly sold out of everything by the end of it.”

City of Greater Bendigo connected communities coordinator Jo Connell said the kids fest is the largest early years event the municipality leads.

“We were grateful the weather held and we were once again able to host this event for families in our community and bring some positivity to children’s lives after challenging times,” she said.