Hot as hell, but the show must go on

DESPITE the extremely hot temperatures tipped to hit southern Australia this weekend, it seems the show must go on.

Whittlesea battled fires last weekend but the Whittlesea Country Music Festival will still go ahead this weekend.

"At this stage the festival is going ahead as planned" said Julie Sutherland one of the festival's organisers.

"People have already arrived to set up camp for the weekend.

" We have spoken with the CFA and emergency services and strategies are in place.

"We are hoping for a large attendance though it may keep some families away." In order to make the most of the festival Julie suggests people come early so that they can go home in the heat of the day.

President of New South Wales' Carrathool Jockey Club, Mick Armstrong, said the Carrathool Races will be held this weekend.

" As far as we know the races will go ahead. The final decision is up to NSW Racing." Saftey measures will be in place on the day with fire trucks on stand by and shade and water for both patrons and horses.

All events, such as the fashions on the field will be held as planned, Mr Armstrong said.

"The only change at this stage is that the day will start earlier at 11.30am," he said.

Echuca will still have its fair share of fresh produce this weekend despite the heatwave with the central Murray farmers market still running.

Manager of the Central Murray farmers market, John Butler, said they would brave the heat under the cover this weekend.

"Lots of trees shade the area and plenty of water will be on tap," he said.

"We expect the regular customers to attend, they will come in early and it will be all over by 11am.

"We haven't missed a market yet and we are not planning too."