Signalling the start of Spring Fest, hundreds of volunteers gathered to create the citrus marvels on Sunday, and visitors and locals alike flocked to check out the ever-growing Griffith tradition.

Steve, Daniel, Lucy and Eliza Mitchell with Robyn Meeham were some of the 800 volunteers bringing the sculptures to life.

“We were up very early to help put together the castle and the tennis racquet,” Mr Mitchell said.

“I think it’s fantastic how the community gets together,” Mrs Meeham said.

“Everyone is happy, you hear them talking and laughing, it’s just beautiful.

“There are so many people, and so many oranges, it’s just amazing.”

After volunteering for a more than a couple of years, the family said the tradition is one that will remain.

“It’s just so much fun,” Eliza said.

“My favorite is definitely the Collier and Miller one – the castle,” Daniel said

“Mine is the robot – it talks to you and everything,” Eliza added.

Described as the “number one volunteer” by the committee, Trevor Ceccato dedicates his time behind the scenes to maintain the tradition started by his mother.

“It’s not only important for me, but for the town itself,” Mr Ceccato said.

“It’s created a lot of tourism, we are a citrus growing area, one of the biggest in Australia.”

His mother kicked it all off almost 25 years ago, when a friend of hers saw the festival in France in a magazine.

“Mum wrote letters to the council in Menton, France and they didn’t reply.

“So she went to information center and sent a letter with the council letter head with Ellen Kelly, and they replied says it was fine for us to do it here too.

Starting off with only three sculptures, there are now over 70 lining the main street.

“It’s unique in Australia, no where else does it. I’m here to keep the ball rolling and keep everybody on their toes.”

Griffith City Council’s Event Coordinator Karly Sivewright was completely delighted with how the morning’s work panned out.

“With six new sculptures the line up is pretty impressive,” Mrs Sivewright said.

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“We also finished as early as we ever have. We got here pretty early this morning and the forklift drivers dropped all the oranges and grapefruit out, the Real Juice Company have been fantastic.

“Last year it rained, so to have this beautiful day is just fantastic. Everyone has been great, Rotary coked the barbeque and everyone enjoyed themselves.”

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