Pumpkins hurtling down streets, disguised as hedgehogs and rock stars and competing for the prestigious Giant Pumpkin title...this golden event known as the Goomeri Pumpkin Festival will roll around on Sunday, May 28.

Celebrating its 10th year, the annual festival expects to draw some 12,000 people to Goomeri in Queensland's South Burnett, three hours' drive north west of Brisbane.

Pumpkins disguised as hedgehogs, lady beetles, rock stars and scarecrows line the streets in fierce competition for the prized title of best decorated pumpkin; while growers from around the region roll their largest pumpkin into battle for the Giant Pumpkin Competition. With last year's winner weighing 77kg and standing half a metre tall, it is no wonder this event is a big drawcard for many visitors.

At 2pm, the much anticipated Great Australian Pumpkin Roll begins. Pumpkins of all shapes and sizes hurtle down Policeman's Hill in a sometimes unpredictable manner. The ?high rollers' tear obediently down the hill and stop gracefully on a flat grassy platform at the bottom. Other rollers are not so lucky as their golden representatives take an unwelcome turn and splatter into the gutter.

Test your skills at Pumpkin Bowls, or enjoy the Pumpkin Pageant, Pumpkin Ploughing Competition and the Pumpkin Patchwork Challenge and Quilt Show as well as more than 200 markets stalls.

For the hungry, there are all sorts of tempting pumpkin treats including scones, soup, damper and pie as well as the very unusual and delicious pumpkin fudge! And what Australian festival would be complete without traditional billy tea and damper to start the day?

There are also traditional Aussie attractions including whip-cracking displays and competitions, cooking demonstrations, working dog demonstrations, a fashion parade with a difference, street parade, square dancing, antique cars and children's' rides and amusements.

A variety of local buskers and bands also play music throughout the festival day. Goomeri's antique shops are open for the day and wine tasting is also available.

The celebrations will begin the night before the festival with a dinner dance in the Goomeri Hall of Memory, featuring a delicious country style dinner, local wines, dancing and entertainment.

Getting there:
Goomeri is located in Kilkivan Shire, on the Burnett Highway approximately 265km or three hours' north-west of Brisbane.

For more info visit www.goomeri.org.au/pumpkinfest/ or call Goomeri Pumpkin Festival Co-ordinator, Geof Stumm (07) 4168 1925.

For more info on the South Burnett area visit www.southburnettholidays.info