Don’t rain on our parade

Wet weather could not dampen the parade at OBF.

Selina Porracin, 6, and Grace Heylbut, 7, at the OBF on Saturday. Pictures: David Swift

• OBF keeps blossoming
• Zest for life
• Kenthurst’s Sunday funday

Wet weather could not dampen the parade of the more than 14,000 people who flocked to the 56th Orange Blossom Festival on the weekend.

The sun shone on Saturday but rain forced the festival to close early at the Castle Hill Showground on Sunday.

The Castle Hill Knights in the OBF Parade.

Dodgem cars were popular at OBF.

The Hills District Pipe Band marching during the OBF Parade.

Kylie Yovich with children Jessica, 11, and Liam, 7.

Selina Porracin, 6, and Grace Heylbut, 7, jump for joy.

Margo Walker, Kaarin Cotterill, Amira Falconio, Addie Fowler, Delle Fowler and Lyzette Sethna from the ONYXtribal dance group.

Elaine Heng and daughter Eleanor, 9, enjoy the sunshine on Saturday.

Drum 4 Fun and the Shimmi Belly Dance groups.

OBF mascot Pippa with a couple of helpers.

Members of the Hills Relay For Life during the OBF Parade.

The Knafeh Jerusalem Bakery team at Eat Street.

Hills Shire Mayor Yvonne Keane (centre).

Despite the weather the event was an overall success, with more than 100 community groups taking part.

Local talent shone during the Zest Quest competition, which replaced the popular Crestwood Idol, and featured a surprise performance by 2016 The Voice Australia contestant Brianna Holm.