Designed by Lia Mewett from Ardtornish Primary School, the float will take to the streets of Adelaide for the event on Saturday 2 November.
Lia’s imaginative design, chosen from over 400 entries, depicts a whimsical beehive nestled among grass and flowers, surrounded by characters dressed in bee and honey pot costumes. ‘Bee Merry’ will bring a new layer of festivity to this year’s Pageant, where it will be showcased alongside 170 other theatrical sets in the southern hemisphere’s largest public parade.
Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison welcomed the new mini float.
“The National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant continues to be a beloved tradition in South Australia, and the ‘Bee Merry’ float is a lovely representation of the joy and imagination that this event inspires across the state,” Minister Bettison said.
The design impressed the panel of judges, including Pageant Director Brian Gilbertson for its originality and creative interpretation of Christmas cheer.
“Lia’s design stood out for its originality and charm. We’re excited to see it come to life on the streets of Adelaide, where it will add a new chapter to the history of the National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant,” Mr. Gilbertson said.
In recognition of her achievement, Lia was awarded a cheque of $500 thanks to National Pharmacies, a behind-the-scenes tour of Stardust Castle, and reserved seating for her family on Pageant Day.
Lia says, “I was inspired to design the Bee Merry float because Christmas is around summer time and that’s when all the bees come out. I also thought that saving the bees was a good message to spread.”
“It was so amazing to see my float come to life. I felt so proud and I’m excited to see my design next to all the other well-known floats.”
National Pharmacies Chief Executive Vito Borrello says that Lia’s winning design not only reflects the magic of the holiday season but also encapsulates the spirit of community and creativity that the National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant embodies.
“Seeing the creativity and passion that young South Australians bring to this competition every year is incredibly rewarding. Lia’s ‘Bee Merry’ float will undoubtedly bring smiles to the faces of the thousands of people who will line the streets of Adelaide on Pageant Day,” Mr. Borrello said.
Second place in the competition went to Maiya Grasso, who received a $300 cheque, while third place was awarded to Henry McElroy, who received $200.
Each entry showcased a unique perspective on what Christmas means to South Australian children, highlighting the significance of this festive tradition.
The National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant remains a free, community event.
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