Why should Germany have all the fun? Port Douglas' own take on the famous beer fest, dubbed 'Porttoberfest' is fast gaining a reputation as a not-to-be-missed event.

Lure Restaurant on the Port Douglas Marina boardwalk are pulling out all stops for the running of the 2012 festival on Saturday, 27 October from 2pm to 9pm.

Eight bars representing eight countries will serve beers native to that country, beer maids in authentic German dress will keep the drinks flowing (responsibly), and there'll be entertainment galore including live band 'Hip to Soul', DJ's and dancing girls.

Pictured above: Victoria, Lisa, and Liz will be adding to the authentic beer festival flavour.

While drinks and food can be purchased, the event is free, and for those who want to get into the spirit of the festival there'll be heaps of fun merchandise available including hats, beads, and huge glass steins filled with genuine Oktoberfest beer straight from Germany for just $20.

According to event organiser, Lure's Wayne Stapleton, the event has the potential to one day draw crowds to the boardwalk the size of the Seafood Extravaganza held during Carnivale which numbers around 2000.



Pictured: Dylan Rice and Sandy Ellis in solid training for Porttoberfest on the Port Douglas Marina boardwalk.

"There's no reason Porttoberfest can't rival some of Carnivale's big events in terms of numbers, and to have it held nearer the end of the traditional high season can only be a good thing for Port  
Douglas," Wayne said.

"The atmosphere we experience when the boardwalk is packed with people at the Seafood Extravaganza is brilliant, and we're working hard to ensure Porttoberfest creates its own festival atmosphere."

The boardwalk will be transformed with tents and long trestle tables reminiscent of famous beer gardens around the world.

To add to the fun, the boardwalk will have Oktoberfest-themed photo booths so even if you haven't come in costume you can still get involved in the fun.

For those who like to take their beer festivals a little more seriously, there'll be an exclusive VIP area with its own bar, personal service from the Porttoberfest beer maids, a German hat and beads, and of course the magnificent beer filled stein all thrown in.

Tickets to the VIP area can be purchased beer...I mean, here.

This Porttoberfest promises to be the biggest yet.