The annual family-friendly event continues to grow in popularity and is the iconic church’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

The addition of pony rides for the first time proved a hit with children, as did the jumping castle, face-painting, puppet show and fishing pond.

Adults spent hours perusing the plant, book and white elephant stalls, while music and dance performances contributed to the convivial atmosphere.

Co-ordinator Ruth Blakely said the fete had raised about $24,000, with the majority to be spent maintaining the Carthage St church.

She said a garage sale of unsold items, to be held from 7.30am next Saturday, would likely see the final figure exceed the church’s target of $25,000.

“I’m quite sure there were more people than last year,” Mrs Blakely said. “We had quite a lot of things for kids, which meant it was a really good family event.

“It’s lovely because it brings in people from all over who don’t know the church and don’t know the op-shop is there.

“It’s a very friendly fete and it was great to see so many people smiling and chatting and laughing and eating together.”