Melbourne Council Investigates Werribee Easter Event After Complaints
A Melbourne council is investigating an Easter event held at Werribee racecourse after attendees reported issues regarding its organization and safety. The Easter Show Fun Day was advertised as a family event featuring rides, a petting zoo, an Easter egg hunt, and live music. Tickets for the event ranged from $7 to $10 for general admission, with family packages available for around $30.
Complaints have been posted online since the event on Easter Saturday.
Attendees reported a myriad of issues. High entry fees were a significant complaint, with some claiming even newborns were charged for admission. Insufficient eggs for the advertised Easter egg hunt was also a widely reported problem. Further complaints highlighted hour-long entry lines and extended waiting times for various attractions. Overcrowding was a common grievance, alongside the high prices for additional items like show bags, face painting, and pony rides.
Safety Concerns Raised
Beyond organizational issues, safety concerns were also brought to light. Attendees reported issues in the car park, where vehicles operated near pedestrian lines without any visible marshals. One attendee detailed observing an extension cord left in a publicly accessible area. Another alarming report cited a staff member mentioning a dropped knife in the hay, where young children were present.
Refunds Sought and Official Responses
Many attendees have indicated their intention to seek refunds following their experience.
The Wyndham City Council confirmed it was not involved in organizing the privately-run event, which took place on land managed by the Werribee Racing Club. The council is currently investigating whether a Place of Public Entertainment Occupancy Permit was required but not obtained, as no application for such a permit was received.
The council clarified that if a permit had been granted, it would not have influenced event pricing, activities, or suppliers.
Victoria Police confirmed they had received traffic-related complaints and have referred inquiries to the event organizers for a response.
Organizers Remain Unresponsive
Advertisements for the Easter Show Fun Day provided only an email address for contact. Requests for comment sent to this email address, as well as to the Werribee Racing Club, have so far gone unanswered.