An ironic element to the glorious three-day event that was Snowflakes in Stanthorpe from July 4-6 was that some were "hoping for cooler weather". Thankful regardless for sunny skies, the enjoyment was more-than-evident among the record crowds, countless still using beanies, scarves and puffer jackets to be in the true spirit of Stanthorpe's iconic winter.
Key organiser and President of Snowflakes in Stanthorpe, Trace Gosney commented to our newspaper that visitors prefer "a good taste of the cold" and in its sixth year, the intake through the weekend was still a record, at approximately 11,250 and just over 4,000 people respectively. Friday, July 4 numbers were bustling in Stanthorpe's CBD too, adding to the school holiday spirit that countless travelled to the Southern Downs to taste and see.
"We're very happy," Trace told us after the Sunday pack up began. "It all went quite smoothly overall. Over $40,000 goes back to community groups for their contribution to running the Snowflakes event and without having good numbers, we couldn't afford to cover our costs."
Trace also said that he enjoyed seeing the smiles on the faces of thousands of the children "and that's what it's all about".
There was a host of activities for anyone heading out and the food vans provided such variety in the tastings.
Here are some comments from attendees:
"I love Snowflakes, it's awesome to come and get in the snow globe, I remember it from last time," Courtney, 8, said.
"My friends and I came from Brisbane and it wasn't too cold this year," Megan, 11, said.
"We were in the snow globe again and it was bigger than ever," Beth said.
"We always attend and hope for snow in Stanthorpe. The fake snow is still good and it gets into everything which means we remember the fun for longer," Marilyn, a mum, said.
"We enjoyed the Brazilian barbecue, there was a long line for it," Dave, a parent, said.
Congratulations to the organisers who are all volunteers that help our region shine biannually.
Read More: Stanthorpe
