mmg.com.au

Lederhosen and fake German accents were flying thick and fast at the inaugural Oktooberfest celebrations held in Tooborac on Saturday.

The Tooborac Hotel and Brewery hosted the event, which owner James Carlin said he hoped was just the first of many more to come.

‘‘We’ve been meaning to do this for a long time, so it’s fantastic to see so many people here today to help us celebrate all things beer,’’ Mr Carlin said.

‘‘It’s also good to see how many people got into the spirit of the day and dressed up, because there’s some great costumes out there.’’

Oktooberfest patrons were treated to live entertainment throughout the day, including some traditional beer swilling tunes by Alpine Cocktail.

A display of German folk dancing by the Oberbayern Folk Dancers left many gasping or giggling as the male dancers competed to woo their women, who proved not so easy to convince.

There were also plenty of activities for children with face and plaster figurine painting, a trampoline and games along with plenty of hot dogs, red lemonade and fairy floss to keep them well fuelled up.

Rob Dempsey from Bendigo said he had travelled down to Oktooberfest with a group of friends to join in the celebrations and thought they were lucky they were staying overnight locally.

‘‘I’ve toured the brewery, eaten way too many sausages, and now I’ve discovered the porter, so we’re in for a big one, I think,’’ Mr Dempsey laughed.

‘‘It’s also been nice to get out in the sun and enjoy a cold beer with mates, so I’m not planning on going anywhere in a hurry.’’