Why the Loxton Mardi Gras Parade Is Held on the Oval

Each year, the Loxton Mardi Gras Committee looks at how to deliver a parade that’s safe, fun, affordable, and unmistakably “Loxton”. After weighing up the options (and a few kerbs), the oval continues to be the parade’s happy place — and here’s the honest reason why.​

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A Safer Space for Kids, Families, and Anyone Who Doesn’t Want to Trip Over a Gutter

The oval gives us a big, soft, grassy stage where kids can zoom around, grandparents can stroll without fear, and nobody has to tango with kerbs, gutters, or that one uneven bit of footpath that’s been plotting against us for decades.
It’s simply a safer, more comfortable place for everyone to enjoy the day without worrying about scraped knees or surprise acrobatics.

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Insurance Loves the Oval (Almost as Much as We Do)

Insurance companies see motorised vehicles on public roads and immediately start sharpening their pencils. They see a parade on a nice, calm oval and suddenly they’re all smiles.
Holding the parade on the grass keeps premiums manageable and helps ensure the event stays affordable for the whole community — which is exactly what a volunteer‑run celebration needs.

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Bookpurnong Terrace: Great for Trucks, Not So Great for Parades

A parade in the main street is meaningless unless the floats can travel in the main section. To do this requires that the roundabout be closed to normal traffic.
Here’s where things get spicy. Bookpurnong Terrace is a gazetted route for B‑doubles and certain road trains — and those big rigs aren’t known for their flexibility or love of detours.
The Department for Industry and Transport is understandably reluctant to close it, and even if they did, we’d need eight accredited traffic controllers to manage the diversion.
Volunteers can’t fill those roles, and hiring qualified staff on a Saturday would cost more than $7,000. That’s a lot of sausage sizzles.

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A Better Experience for Spectators and Participants

The oval lets everyone gather in one big, colourful, festival‑style space. Shade, seating, food, and fun are all in one spot — no long stretches of road, no scattered crowds, just a relaxed, family‑friendly atmosphere where you can enjoy the parade and stay for the celebrations.

Practical, Efficient, and Delightfully Drama‑Free

- No major road closures.
- No detours for half the town.
- No wrestling with traffic management plans thicker than a phone book.
Just a smooth, joyful parade that’s easy for participants, volunteers, and the community to enjoy.