Eleven-year-old Annika of Warburton battles the Yarra River.
By Melissa Donchi
THE second Annual Charity Warburton Lilo Derby took place over the weekend with over 500 ‘lilo pilots’ taking the plunge in the Yarra River.
Around 50 spectators braved the heat to cheer on friends and family, but it was the kids from Warburton Primary School who were the real stars of the day.
The winning time was a quick 34 minutes while the slowest time was two hours and 11 minutes.
All three prizes were taken out by students from the local primary school, which included a three-man tent and sleeping equipment from Anaconda Camping.
Event manager Ben Schubert described the annual race as a success.
“We had a really good day despite the heat,” he said. “All in all a few Bandaids were required, there were a few punctured lilos and a bit of sunburn.”
After the race there was a barbecue down by the river and then an awards presentation at the back of the Wild Thyme Cafe.
The event is in its second year and there are definite plans for a third next year.
“It should be around the same time,” Mr Schubert said.
The Annual Charity Warburton Lilo Derby raises money for Camp Quality and Warburton Primary School where the money will go towards an arts and music program.
