TRADITION: Paul MacLean carring the Lochaber Axe. Picture: Peter Weaving
CAFES, bars, restaurants and petrol stations would have seen the benefits of the Scots Day Out event, according to City of Greater Bendigo major events manager Terry Karamaloudis.
Mr Karamaloudis said the people who “filled Rosalind Park wall to wall” on Saturday had stimulated the local economy.
“In the process of visiting they will look at what Bendigo has to offer,” he said.
“That helps to get return visitors to the area.
“It exposes the city and gives people an opportunity to see the kind of events we can display.”
Mr Karamaloudis said Bendigo was traditionally good at hosting sporting events but could cater to a wide audience.
“Groovin’ the Moo which sold out 15,000 tickets in two days, that caters mainly to 18 to 35 year olds,” he said.
“We’re really big in sport but we’re not a one-dimensional city.
“You can see today at the Scots Day out the diversity that’s clearly on display.
“Organiser Chris Earl has really done an outstanding job with this event.”
But Bendigo Moteliers Association president Charlie Loftus said the large turnout to Saturday’s event appeared to consist of local residents and day trippers.
“It hasn’t really had a major impact on the motels,” he said.
“There are still plenty of rooms around.
“It seems like people have come along for a look but only for the day.”
– BLAIR THOMSON