However, the celebration at the park went ahead as planned, the new commemorative iris garden was planted and people gathered to hear former Shire President Stuart Hood tell of the parks’ beginning.

Some former members of the Bombala High School community band gathered to hear a recording of the symphonic piece “High Country” written especially for the original opening of the park composed by Ralph Hultgren.

Another highlight at garden celebration was the branding of Lightening Strike sculpture.

The Lightening Strike sculpture by local artist Pat Lomas was commissioned by the Bombala Lions Club and is one of several in the Bicentennial Park.

“The idea about putting the brands of settlement farmers on the sculpture was raised by John Adamson and the Lions Club,” local producer Charlie Maslin said.

“We approached Pat Lomas about putting the brands on the lightening sculpture, which he agreed to, so we got people to bring along their brands on the day.

“There are 26 brands from properties in the Bombala district, and we think there will be more once the word gets around,” Mr Maslin said.

“There were a few hiccups getting a complete impression and one or two brands that were too big for the branding fire, but all the brands have also been placed on a ply wood board which will hopefully be housed in the Historical Engine Society Shed.

“The identity of the brand will also be on display,” he said.