Fired up to spread the Easter cheer

A parade of flashing lights and sirens sounded the arrival of a special visitor on the streets of Kojonup last Sunday as fire trucks carting the Easter bunny spread some cheer to families hunkering down at home.

With Easter traditions put on hold due to COVID-19, local firefighter Matt Crabb hatched a last-minute plan to deliver some much-needed smiles to the doors of local children.

With the help of Kojonup local Kellie Miles, he organised an Easter parade in less than 24 hours.

Volunteers quick to jump on board included Kojonup IGA and local woman Cathy Shand, who donated more than 100 chocolate eggs to share with the community.

Ms Miles said onlookers could not wipe the smiles off their faces, with children and adults rushing to their driveways to wave to the Easter bunny as the convoy passed.

“We let off the big siren to let everybody know we were on our way and we drove around literally every street, streets I’d never known existed in Kojonup, and I’ve lived here for 20-odd years,” she said.

“Everyone was in absolute amazement. There was laughter, giggling from kids, excitement — it was just fantastic.

“Even the parents came running out, taking videos and photos themselves.”

“Everyone was waving and just saying thank you - so they were very happy.”

Ms Miles encouraged anyone who had an idea to lift community spirit to speak up and see who could help make it a reality.

“If people have an idea, just come to us and we can try and make it happen,” she said.

“As soon as it is for the community, everyone pulls together.”