FAMILIES are the focus of community New Year's Eve celebrations across the Wimmera.
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In Ararat families can enjoy festivities organised by the Ararat State Emergency Service, at Russell T. White Raceway.
SES Ararat unit controller Russell Graham said the fun would start at 6pm and continue to 10pm.
"We're celebrating the New Year on New Zealand time so adults have time to go home and do adult things," he said.
Entry is by gold coin donation.
Mr Graham said there would be a barbecue, musical entertainment as well as children's activities such as a jumping castle, fairy floss and appearances by Mickey Mouse and Goofy.
He encouraged children to come dress up as their favourite character.
"We will have a hand ball and a colouring competition," he said.
Stawell's Cato Park is another centre of celebration.
Stawell Visitor Information Centre volunteer Estelle Hirst said the New Year's Eve Party in the Park included spectacular fireworks.
"It's a bit of a picnic so people should bring blankets and rugs," she said.
"Chris Doheny is the drawcard performer as well as Dingus and Wallaby Stew.
"There's full catering and bar facilities, people can bring their own food but there's no BYO alcohol."
She said there was face painting for children.
"It's $20 for families to get in, $10 adults and $5 pensioners and students."
Warracknabeal also has a Party in the Park planned at Anzac Park and community centre.
Warracknabeal Community Centre Committee secretary Alan McLean said the indoor-outdoor function was aimed at getting people together for a good yap.
"Instead of sitting at home on their back lawn we want people to come down here to celebrate together," he said.
He said the event included a disco indoors, barbecue and a Strawberry the Clown appearance.
"It's a family night. People can bring their deck chairs and set up a camp for the night."
Mr McLean said the event started at 6pm and entry was by gold coin donation.
