Dancing in the rain - wet weather does not dampen Potato Festival's spirits

The weather was far from ideal for the event, but it did not stop people from embracing it, and people could attended for free on the second day.

Although the grounds were muddy, this did not deter attendees from crowding around the festival stage to sing and dance.

More than 130 millimetres of rain was expected on the Sunday (May 5), according to the Bureau of Metereology.

Carolyn Kennedy attended on both days, and said she loved "dancing in the rain" to Peter Byrne's Forever Diamond tribute show.

"It was fun - good atmosphere, and it's fun when people dance in the rain together," she said.

It was the perfect weather to enjoy hot potatoes in soup, jackets and even on sticks.

The shed became a popular hub, as people gathered for cooking demonstrations and the festival favourite Hessians on the Field.

Then dubbed 'Hessians in the Shed', children, adults, dogs, and even a unicorn showcased potato sack couture.

It was judged by children's entertainer Emma Watkins and John Hill from Hill Family Farming, where both said that they were looking for creativity.

Creations went beyond hessian - one designer even used potato silk, and another used flowers she dried and grew in Robertson.

"We wanted to capture the essence of the sacks and Robertson potatoes," entrant Caren Taylor said, who used flowers in her dress and headpiece, as well as her daughter's.

Evie Smart from Nowra made her outfit, as well as her parents ensembles, which were all fully lined and included details such as petticoats.

The 13-year-old made the project with her nan, and was determined to get creative after placing second in the competition in 2023.

She came first in the under 16 category.

Zak won the pet category, which was made by his owner Oskar.

First prize in the open division, which was a $1000 cheque, was split into two between Erin and Dennis Smart, and Susan and David Natilli.

Susan said she used sacks from the potato shed.

Runner-up prizes were also awarded and chosen by the cheers of the crowd.

Festival organiser Gary Fit-zroy was contacted for a comment.