WITH the sun shining almost as much as attendees’ quiffs, the Ballarat Beat Rockabilly Festival has further cemented its place as one of the city’s most popular celebrations. 

Run over four days but peaking on Saturday and Sunday, the festival saw 5000 people come out and enjoy the music, cars and competitions. 

Organiser Kate Burrows said she was happy it had become an all-community effort. 

“It’s all-inclusive ... whether that’s watching people dancing, the cars, (or) checking out some memorabilia,” she said. 

“Just seeing everyone dressed up and having fun has been fantastic.” 

“There are just so many happy faces.” 

The competitions proved a focal point. 

On Saturday, a crowd of more than 100 saw the new Miss Ballarat Beat – Miss Violet Vixen – crowned. 

Dozens worked on their dancing skills in the classes put on by Ballarat Rockers, and the rockabilly hair and make-up specialists made sure people looked the part as well as moving it. 

Ms Burrows said the traders on Lydiard Street pitched in and gave the festival a real local flavour. 

“No external food vendors came in, and the cafes and restaurants there showed we can cater for everybody,” she said. “Everybody’s gotten involved; the bar staff were dressed up and having a good time as well.” 

The Gravy Spot made a rare decision to be open during the day, and Ms Burrows said it had certainly benefited. 

“They had that courtyard, and I don’t remember it being empty all weekend,” she said. 

Before the bands closed the festival on Sunday night, dyed hair and poses were again in competition. 

This time, it was Ballarat’s best-dressed poodles fighting for the title. 

The standout had to be the Elvis-impersonating black standard, who had the hip-swivel set down perfectly. 

Ms Burrows said they would look to go even bigger next year with inspiration coming from larger national festivals such as Cooly Rocks On (in Coolangatta) and even overseas, with a trip to Las Vegas in the works. 

“I can’t wait to get started on next year’s,” she said.