Bendigo celebrates 2019 Easter torchlight procession | Photos, Video

There were more than 50 entries in this year's event. An emergency services tribute started the procession with police sirens wailing. Colourful floats from local organisations and businesses followed with music blasting.

Want more? See all our Easter coverage here.

There was also some extra Chinese spirit this year in honour of the new dragon Dai Gum Loong.

Lion and dragon dance troops from around the country performed traditional dances and set off firecrackers for the crowds to enjoy.

Huntley Fire Brigade's Paige Mounsey walked in the torchlight procession for the first time.

"It was really good," she said. "It was really tiring holding the torch the whole way but it was a really good experience.

"The crowds are great. It's so great to have everyone clapping as you walk past."

Fellow Huntley firefighter Dallas Sumner also debuted at the procession.

"I felt like this year's crowd was definitely a lot bigger than last year although this is the first time I've been not in the crowd," he said. "I saw it from the inside out.

"It was also great to have a lot of family members and friends yelling out and everybody clapping and thanking us."

Bendigo resident Deanne Petterson said she thought this year's procession was lacking something.

"I come every year," said. "I did enjoy it but last year's had more in it. There was just more floats and there's not enough in it anymore."

Jessica Eagle secured a spot to watch the procession with her family near the Alexandra Fountain.

"We come every year," she said. "I thought it was just as good as last year's. There were probably less floats than normal but it was still a fun night. The kids enjoyed themselves."

The procession concluded with vibrant fireworks over Rosalind Park.

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