Judges described the movie-themed creation, complete with an evil Gru and dozens of his little yellow minions, as “very impressive”.

“The float itself was very well made and the participants had an absolutely fantastic energy that was continuous,” judge Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash said.

Cr Gash said the standard of floats in this year’s parade made choosing a winner extremely difficult.

“There were a few less floats, but the quality certainly surpassed past years,” she said.

“The parade was very impressive and every year it’s getting harder and harder to decide on a winner.

“It’s not just the floats, it’s the costumes and the people in the parade that make it a fantastic community event.”

Festival coordinator Phil Brown said “perfect weather conditions and massive, enthusiastic crowds” made for a “sensational” day.

He agreed the standard of floats in the parade was “magnificent”

“Every float was spectacular, everyone did a terrific job.”

Baylee Roughley and Taelyn Puglisi’s families and friends worked on the Despicable Me float for three months in the lead up to the parade.

Criminal mastermind Gru was joined by Dr Nefario on the float, with a trio of orphans and posse of minions dancing along behind.

Coming in a close second was the Surf’s Up float topped by princesses Skyla Rayner and Courtney Hill and featuring a bunch of cool skateboarding penguins.

Third prize went to Kalarni Fox and Lily Morton’s A Bug’s Life float, while highly commended awards were presented to the colourful Lego and Friends Garden Party created by Abbie Wilesmith and Amy Flamminio and the frightening Hunger Games featuring dozens of characters and topped by princesses Tenayah Hatch and Jenna Mack.

Mr Brown said this year’s festival really put Ulladulla on the map, with a wonderful parade, free entertainment all day and a host of stalls and activities.

“It’s a real drawcard for people, both locals and visitors,” he said.

“This year we had lots of stalls and eateries, as well as the Navy and the Navy helicopter flying around – which was great.

“The blessing ceremony was wonderful and Princess of the Fleet Lilly Hatwell spoke magnificently on stage.

“The greasy pole competition and the kids games on the harbour foreshore were a hit as usual.”

Mr Brown commended the team of volunteers that spent months planning and putting the festival together and the many volunteers from community organisations, such as the SES, RFS and Marine Rescue, who acted as marshalls during the parade.

“It’s a real community event and so many people work hard to make it happen,” he added.

Cr Gash said this year’s parade reflected a “magnificent community spirit”.

“I love coming to Ulladulla, this is my favourite event of the year,” she said.

“So many locals get involved and you can see they are really enjoying themselves.

“It’s fantastic to see the joy they bring to the audience.

“Words can’t describe how wonderful it was and I understand how much work goes into every float – well done Ulladulla.”