BOTH the weather and the atmosphere for our local Australia Day Celebrations on Saturday were extremely sunny, with a big crowd rolling up to the Bombala Exhibition Ground to share in some Aussie fun.
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The backbone of the day was once again the excellent shearing and woodchop competitions, with fantastic local and visiting talent being showcased (results page 15).
Of particular interest this year was the High Country Intermediate Challenge which was won by local shearer, Scott Moreing, who earned himself a trip to New Zealand for his efforts both here and in Omeo.
The shearing and woodchop events were complimented by our latest Australia Day tradition, with an emergency services demonstration really grabbing the interest of the crowd as our fireys, paramedics and police showed their skills.
Meanwhile there was plenty of laughter to be heard from the kids as they made the most of the Patting Paddock, the all new BMX jumps, having their faces painted and building their own kites.
This was just the tip of the iceberg, however, with a model boat display, the National Parks stand, a lavender oil demonstration and even a palm reader all adding interest.
Of course it was the annual biathlon/triathlon that actually kicked the day off, with the event proving particularly popular this year as the competitors hit the pool, the river track and the recreation ground (results page 16).
For those a little less active, the cooler hall was tempting with its market stalls and CWA barbecue, and who could resist a soothing massage and health check from the Monaro Rural Health Service.
A peek at the photography competition was also a must, with the Essence of Rural Australia theme providing plenty of great images; the judges deciding that Carol Badweitz captured the feel best in her winning shot.
At lunchtime there was a pause for the presentation of awards, with President of the Australia Day Celebration Committee, Colin Green welcoming the crowd and kicking off the official proceedings.
Here Mayor Bob Stewart took the stage to present the Citizen of the Year Award to John Ratcliffe, who was certainly a popular and well deserving recipient (see page 3).
Australia Day Ambassador, Michael Crossland also gave the Australia Day Address, with the young cancer survivor sharing some inspiring thoughts on how he looks at the world, and the need for us all to embrace life a little more.
During his address Michael spoke of time he has spent in the US and Haiti and reminded the crowd of the freedom we enjoy in Australia, and that we live in a hope filled land.
Michael said he felt privileged and honoured to come to Bombala for our Australia Day Celebrations, and wished all a very enjoyable day, himself getting involved in the emergency rescue demonstration.
The official proceedings also saw the winners of the biathlon and triathlon congratulated, while Mayor Stewart commended the Australia Day Celebration and Exhibition Ground Management Committees on an excellent event.
The singing of the National Anthem and the flag raising concluded the formal part of the day, with a relaxed afternoon of Australia Day celebrations then being shared amongst the enthusiastic gathering.
The Australia Day Celebration Committee would like to offer its sincere appreciation to all of those who helped make the event a success, encouraging more members to jump on board and help with the day next year.
For more photographs, stories and event results, please see pages 3, and 12 to 16.