Dozens of Elvis Presley impersonators flooded Sydney’s Central Station on Wednesday morning, as a tiny rural NSW city prepares for a five-day pageant devoted to the King of Rock and Roll.
Before punters made their strategy to the thirtieth annual Parkes Elvis Festival, Elvises, who travelled from so far as Japan, sang beloved hits like ‘Jailhouse Rock’ and ‘Hound Dog’. In the gang, Hawaiian leis, aqua and white flared fits, and completely gelled black wigs have been a typical website.
Dressed in gold sequined blazers, an identical Hawaiian-print set, aviator sun shades and thongs, uncle and nephew Damien and Luke Barden have been headed to their fifth pageant.
The five-day occasion goes from Wednesday to Sunday, with this yr’s theme – Blue Hawaii – a tribute to Presley’s musical comedy of the identical identify.
“It’s a town of 8000 that swells to over 20,000 and everyone is Elvis. It’s a wonderful week and you can’t get much better really,” stated Damien.
While the pair remained tight-lipped when requested about their most memorable expertise from their 5 Parkes Elvis Festivals – “we do but we can’t share it unfortunately,” declared Luke – they stated the weekend was full of sing-a-longs and “good fun”.
“You walk around the pubs and the clubs and there’s just Elvis impersonators. I think some of the worst ones are the best ones. They’re just getting up and having a go,” he added.
Friends Jean, Megan and Jane stated they have been most excited to “meet new Elvises,” who journey to the agricultural city from all around the world.
Jean and Megan made their strategy to Sydney from Geelong, Victoria, and have been gearing as much as make the 365km prepare journey to Parkes.
The devoted NSW Trainlink service presents a return journey from Sydney to Parkes, with the carriages decked out in Elvis paraphernalia. The tickets are priced at $299, which additionally features a ticket to the Festival Finale, snacks and a welcome bag.
Sharing their love of Elvis’ music, Megan accredited Presley’s enduring reputation to his iconic songs and affect in a number of genres from nation, pop and naturally, rock and roll.
“The music is just so versatile too. It’s not just rock and roll. It’s gospel, it’s country – a little bit of everything.”
Ahead of the Elvis Express’ 8.33am departure, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway confirmed the NSW Government would assist the prepare service till not less than 2025.
It’s estimated the occasion brings $15 million to the central-west area, with all lodging absolutely booked throughout Parkes and the encompassing cities.
“This isn’t just important for Elvis fans, this is important to the central-west of NSW. It’s important for Parkes, it’s important for Forbes, it’s important for the region that has faced significant flooding over recent weeks,” stated Mr Farraway.
Mr Farraway was joined by Parkes Shire Council Mayor Ken Keith, who was dressed on-theme in a pastel blue jumpsuit.
Cr Keith stated the pageant was “much needed” after three years of drought, two years of Covid, and up to date flooding.
“It’s so important to the regional economy (and) more important for the mental health of our town,” he stated.
“It gives a chance for people to relax and get back to normal life.”
