mmg.com.au

Crows watch out — avoid Dookie for the next few weeks.

Paddy and his mates will be out and about giving crows, and possibly children under five, a mighty big scare as well as attracting plenty of rubbernecking townies.

Paddy came to life yesterday morning using the wardrobe skills of Lifestyle Dookie committee members keen to promote the special qualities of their corner of the world.

Committee member Julia McKay said a ‘‘make your own scarecrow’’ competition was designed to spark some creativity and fun as part of the SheppARTon Festival in early March.

‘‘We wanted something creative and which represents the area,’’ Ms McKay said.

‘‘We’re hoping people will become enthused and put them in their front yards, or in shops or in our CWA Gardens.’’

Ms McKay is confident Paddy will have a lot more mates by March.

‘‘There are some very creative people around,’’ she said.

As a helpful guide, Dookie community newsletter Major Saddleback News this month contains instructions on how to build a scarecrow.

They include: ‘‘Add a hat, scarf or bling to make your scarecrow stand out in a crowd!’’

Paddy yesterday sported an eye-catching pair of purple pants and a red check bandana on his hat.

Ms McKay said entries must be in by March 10 when judging will take place.

Entries are free and are open to everyone in the Dookie district.

There are four prize categories — open, traditional, children’s and a people’s choice award.

A $300 prize will be awarded for the best scarecrows in the open and traditional categories, while the best children’s entry will win $100.

The committee is looking for a sponsor for the people’s choice award.

Prizes will be awarded at the Day Out at Dookie event at Tallis Wines on March 17.

Ms McKay urged people to pick up an entry form at the Dookie Emporium, the Gladstone Hotel, the Dookie General store or at selected Shepparton venues.

‘‘You don’t have to be artistic — just use whatever you’ve got at home,’’ she said.

She said a scarecrow ‘‘map’’ will be drawn up, so people can view entries placed around the district including in downtown Dookie.

For more information, phone Ms McKay on 0438251001.