By GEORGIA WESTGARTH
HE’S watched Mr Yakkerboo parade through town for 39 years; he was there when Pakenham’s favourite swamp creature graced Moomba and he watched as the town went into mourning when Mr Yakkerboo was set fire to.
He’s the local barber and a good mate, he’s our Uncle.
Graham Treloar is proud of the long standing festival tradition and grateful his very own grandchildren can experience the free rides that his own children once did.
“The major concept since its inception has been the free rides for the kids, which is one of the main things we strive to do each year,” Mr Treloar said.
Having been involved in the community event since it started, Uncle remembers it all.
“It’s a big day, Mr Yakkerboo’s birthday is a big occasion- lots of people treat him like he’s half human!”
“When Yakkerboo was burnt down in a shed on the racecourse kids put death notices in the paper,” he said.
Mr Treloar has been Pakenham’s uncle for 48 years and says it’s a nickname that stuck.
“Jack Drake and I went on a trip to Canberra and he started calling me uncle, I just think of it as a nickname,” he said.
A nickname that has got some into trouble in the past.
“Many years ago, I went to Pakenham High School and a student said ‘Hi Uncle’ and the teacher told him to pay Mr Treloar more respect, another student walked past and said ‘Hi Uncle,’ the teacher replied with the same remark … ‘but he actually is my uncle’ my nephew said.”
Blood related or not, it’s clear Mr Treloar has Pakenham running through his veins.
“My dad was born here and I arrived at 18 months old.”
Mr Treloar’s grandfather started the barber shop named Treloar’s Hairdressing on Station Street, Pakenham, in 1912.
“My dad worked there and so did I, we were there for 76 years.”
“But more talking than cutting goes on now,” he said.
A Yakkerboo committee member for 22 years and former secretary and president, Mr Treloar is expecting big crowds on Sunday 19 April.
“This year I’m looking after the market and the classic and vintage cars which kick off before the parade,” Mr Treloar said.
“People say to me, ’what’s Yakkerboo’ and I tell them ’it’s Pakenham’s answer to Moomba’.”
A wealth of knowledge and a friendly smile, you’re sure to find our uncle front row as his good mate Mr Yakkerboo takes centre stage.
