After the terrible weather conditions that caused the delay of the opening street parade last year, the organisers were keeping an eye on the weather throughout the afternoon as it looked like the weather would once again close in on Port Douglas.  But the Gods were kind to us this year and a beautiful evening allowed the Carnivale 2013 Macrossan Street Parade to proceed without a hitch.

Just prior to the cavalcade moving off a representation of runners from the CANEGROWERS Great Barrier Reef Marathon Festival scheduled to be held on November 3rd this year put on an exhibition of running up and down the main street of Macrossan Street to draw everyones attention to this phenomenal event.  About 15 runners ran the 1km exhibition course and although it was just meant to be a gentle jog to show off the event, the lads encouraged by local legend Nick Carling gave it everything they had in the final leg and thrilled the crowds with some devastating sprint finishes.  The ladies however maintained their decorum and ran in style across the finishing line to the cheers of the huge crowd lining Macrossan Street.

Once the runners were moved away, some on stretchers with oxygen (only joking) the full parade was given the go ahead.

About 40 floats and walking demonstrations gently wound their way along Macrossan street to the delight of the huge crowds lining either side of the main street.

The classic cars led the way with a real mix of colourful floats streaming on behind.  The Port Douglas Community Centre - Going to Rio, took out the $1,000 prize for Best Overall float, The Gazette took out 'Best Commercial Float' with their 70s style disco float and Julatten State School took out the Best Community Float.

Any fears of smaller crowds and lack of interest were soon dispelled as the superb crowds who generated a fantastic atmosphere to welcome in Carnivale 2013.

For full schedule of events visithttp://www.carnivale.com.au/events/