Emma Watkins and Peter Helliar crowned Moomba 2024 monarchs

Peter Helliar has been named as one of the Moomba Monarchs alongside former Wiggle Emma Watkins, who lives in NSW but was chosen because she “transcends borders”.

Peter Helliar and Emma Memma (Watkins) have been crowned the 2024 Moomba Monarchs. Picture: David Crosling

City leaders say Sydney-based children’s entertainer Emma Memma “transcends borders” and is the perfect pick as a Melbourne Moomba Monarch.

Emma Memma, also known as the former yellow Wiggle, Emma Watkins, was crowned Moomba royalty, alongside comedian, actor and TV presenter Peter Helliar for the festival’s 2024 event, on Wednesday.

“Moomba is an event synonymous with Melbourne,” Watkins said.

Peter Helliar and Emma Memma (Watkins) sitting on the iconic Moomba throne. Picture: David Crosling

“It is an honour to be crowned Moomba Monarch. I’m absolutely thrilled for a vibrant celebration.”

Despite breaking with tradition and picking someone who doesn’t live in Victoria, acting lord mayor, Nicholas Reece, said Watkins was the right choice.

“As is the case every year, our Moomba Monarchs are chosen on merit,” he said.

“Emma Memma is a national treasure and has a presence and personality that transcends borders.”

Peter Helliar and Emma Memma (Watkins) celebrating their unveiling as this year’s Moomba monarchs. Picture: David Crosling

He added: “Her work with children, especially those who are deaf and hard of hearing, is highly relevant to Moomba’s family audience.”

Moomba organisers cited the event’s 1977 Monarch, Disney rodent Mickey Mouse, as another out-of-towner.

Watkins’ Moomba Monarch role will include raising funds for Expression Australia, which provides vital services and resources for the deaf community. She will also take flight in the famous Birdman Rally and plunge into the Yarra.

At the announcement event, Melbourne’s new royals wore their crowns proudly – Watkins’ decorated with pink and orange butterflies, while Magpies tragic Helliar went with a black and white trim.

“Never would I have dreamt that one day I would be a Moomba Monarch,” Helliar said. “I promise to use my newly acquired powers purely for fun and togetherness.” He added: “ I couldn’t think of a better co-monarch than Emma Memma. You can call me ‘Petey Meaty’ if you’d like.”

Moomba, celebrating its 70th anniversary, runs from March 7-11. Last year it attracted 1.3 million visitors.