mmg.com.au

Okay men, it’s time to think outside the square and get busy for the big Kaarimba bake-off.

Co-organiser Gail Grinter said local blokes were getting serious about the annual event, now part of the state-wide community arts program Home is Where the Hall Is, produced by Regional Arts Victoria.

‘‘Rivalry among the men is red-hot this year,’’ Mrs Grinter said.

She said the 2012 bake-off would see her husband, Kaarimba farmer Col Grinter, defend his king of the chocolate cake title against fellow local farmer Graeme Sprunt.

Sprunt was disgruntled last year when judges gave his chocolate cake the big thumbs down because it was the wrong shape.

‘‘The judges didn’t like it because it was square. But there are new judges this year, so he might be in with a chance,’’ Mrs Grinter said.

Another keen contestant will be farmer Ron Robinson defending his best scones title.

Other sections this year include ladies sponge, ladies cake and children’s decorated Marie biscuits and novelty fruit and vegetables — toothpicks and horticultural material allowed.

There are also open sections on slices and high tea sandwiches.

Mrs Grinter said last year’s inaugural event drew 80 people.

‘‘We were really pleased. This is only a small district. If we get the same this year we’ll be really happy,’’ she said.

This year’s bake-off at the historic Kaarimba Hall will include a display of photos taken by locals of the floods that hit the district in March.

Mrs Grinter said the district’s upgraded Country Fire Authority fire truck will also be on display to coincide with Fire Brigade Sunday on the same day.

A barbecue will be run by local CFA volunteers.

The 2012 Kaarimba Hall Bake-Off takes place on Sunday, November 25 from noon to 4pm.

Bake-off entries need to be delivered by 12.30pm for judging and will be used as afternoon tea on the day.

Mrs Grinter said favourite recipes were being collected for a recipe book to be published next year.

Entry is $5 with students and children free.

The 112-year-old Kaarimba Hall is on Kaarimba Hall Rd, past Bunbartha off Shepparton-Barmah Rd.

For more information, phone Gail Grinter on 58269488 or Toni on 58269483.