Massive crowd brave Melbourne heatwave to make a splash at Moomba

The extreme heat did not deter a huge crowd turning out to the 70th anniversary of the Moomba Festival as the council announced its decision on whether it would reschedule the parade.

Thousands of people have braved the heat to take part in Moomba celebrations which have been heralded a “success” despite lower than usual crowd figures.

Despite temperatures reaching as high as 39 degrees on Sunday, hordes of spectators lined the Yarra River banks to soak up the iconic Birdman rally and fireworks, taking the total crowd figure to more than 300,000 across the first three days of the annual event.

Lord Mayor Sally Capp said early numbers were on track to break records before the extreme heat hit and remained confident of seeing a big crowd on Monday.

“We have been really astonished and delighted with the number of people who have come to this amazing Moomba Festival,” she said.

Emma “Memma” Watkins leaps off the stage as part of the annual Moomba Birdman rally. Picture: Tony Gough

JJ Taiki dives off the stage dressed as “Nacho Libre” Picture: Tony Gough

“On Thursday and Friday the numbers were actually up on last year so heading into record territory and (on Sunday) we were only (down) 17 per cent on crowd numbers which is amazing and a testament to the popularity of the festival.

“People are still making the most of what is the biggest community festival in Australia.”

Sunday’s Birdman rally was heavily supported by the masses along the Yarra as 11 brave contestants made a splash in their attempted to fly over the river.

Even former Wiggles favourite Emma “Memma” Watkins took part in the Birdman rally.

But she was no match for Birdman legend Michael Paul, competing in his 18th rally.

He flew the longest distance at 12.5m, winning the event for the 15th time since his first appearance in 1991.

He dedicated this year’s win to his late brother Luke who died to multiple sclerosis.

“We lost Luke to MS and cancer in November last year so this year we did it in honour of him and it was the best flight I’ve had in years,” he said.

“I felt him here with me today.”

Michael Paul won his 15th Moomba Birdman rally with his 12.5m leap. Picture: Tony Gough

Mr Paul and his team “In honour of Luke” also won the People’s Choice Award while “Team Alfred” raised the most money for charity with $14,004.

A large crowd was also expected on Monday — which has traditionally been the busiest day at Moomba — despite the decision to cancel the annual parade.

Moomba organisers pulled the pin on the iconic parade due to the extreme heatwave covering Victoria, with temperatures expected to reach 38 degrees for a third straight day on Monday.

Ms Capp said logistical issues as well as the heat made it difficult to reschedule the much loved parade.

“We considered having the parade on a different day altogether but are very conscious that this extreme heat is going over a number of days,” she said.

“The sheer logistics of running the parade, closing down streets, making sure people are available, making sure all our emergency services (are available) makes it a really difficult thing to move.

“We literally spent hours (discussing) what the alternatives could be in delivering the parade”.