A cap of 1000 adults was reached and they, along with children, enjoyed activities ranging from whip cracking to hay stacking.

Market co-ordinator Lorrae Smyth now hopes 5000 can attend next year's milestone muster after a bid for that tally was rejected this year by the state government.

About $5000 was spent on COVID measures, including marshals and toilet hire, but Mrs Smyth was thrilled with the outcome.

"I'm pleased we were able to hold the event to start with, because that was scary (the uncertainty), but everyone seems happy and it's been a good day," she said.

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Jousters on horseback from Ballarat's Kryal Castle were a hit with the crowd after having never previously performed at the celebration of country life.

There were 'oohs' and 'aahs' as the riders took on each other and their poles snapped into pieces.

Announcer and Mitta Valley identity John Scales said it had been "a mighty job by the committee to get it up and running" considering recent COVID uncertainty and the five-day lockdown in February.

"To get that number of people shows people are ready to spend and read to get out and about," he said.

It is hoped more than $30,000 will be raised through gatetakings and other expenditure.

That money will then be distributed to Mitta Valley community groups who apply for grants.

The muster was held last year, a week before mass COVID cancellations.

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