It received another huge boost for the 2016 festival when supermodel and now best selling author, Tara Moss made a surprise visit.

Tara proved a huge hit with locals, making herself available for all photo requests.

“I have wanted to come to the Elvis Festival for three years,” she told the Champion Post.

“I have friends who come every year, booking the same motel.

“I am often on the road, and have not been able to get organised but this year, we have made it and are having a great time.”

Tara was with her partner, Berndt Sellheim and they are travelling in a vintage caravan.

“We love the old caravans, and going around Australia calling into inland small towns.  It’s where you meet and see all the character of Australia,” Tara said.

“The festival is great. We have only been here 24 hours and already we are surprised at how the community has pulled together to put on this festival.

“If I have the opportunity, I would love to take part in the street parade as well.

“Elvis was a fascinating character but the legend of Elvis is the real celebration. It’s bigger than the man himself.

“All these people who come to the Parkes festival obviously feel a connection with him, whether you are young or old.

“He truly was a trendsetter in so many ways, pop culture, his singing, his music, his style.”

Tara said she has many Elvis songs.

“But I only just found out how many he actually had, so I have a very small percentage.”

Her favourite Elvis movies are Blue Hawaii and Jailhouse Rock.

Tara was fascinated with the 1963 caravan owned by local resident, Kristy Berry parked in the CBD, and took the opportunity to inspect it