Historical information

The origin of Moomba dates back to 1951, when Melbourne celebrated fifty years of Federation with a parade and the staging of the theatre production 'An Aboriginal Moomba: Out of the Dark'. The following year, the final Labour Day procession was held in Melbourne after running for almost a century. A parade through the streets of central Melbourne have been a key part of the Moomba festival since its beginning. The floats have an annual theme, usually an elaboration on 'Let's get together and have fun', the avowed mission and vision statement of Moomba. In the beginning the floats usually promoted a Commercial or Government organisation, but in later years, as business became more reluctant to spend money on elaborate floats, they tended to represent sporting clubs, ethnic groups and other community organisations (source Melbourne Museum).

Physical description

Mounted colour photograph with cover depicting the COGB Moomba Float. Taken on corner of Flinders and Swanston Streets, Melbourne.

Inscriptions & markings

Bendigo Easter Fair Guest Float.