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Woodn’t be better in Glenreagh

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With the introduction of several new attractions including a competitive chainsaw competition and a bullock team, the 2024 Glenreagh Timber Festival attracted more than 6500 attendees to the Glenreagh Recreational Grounds on July 27, with Event Organiser Mike Pollard declaring the occasion a big success.

While guests were afforded the convenience of parking in an adjacent paddock this year, and with the lingering wet weather staying away during proceedings, families of all ages enjoyed themselves as they celebrated the rich heritage of the rural village.

From a humble beginning which started as a conversation in a pub between local community groups who were inspired to create a fun day out to draw visitors to the region while sharing the history of the local industry, the Glenreagh Timber Festival has once again proved itself to be one of the most beloved attractions in Northern NSW.

“It’s such a fantastic event, and it’s got something for everyone,” said Coffs Harbour visitor Delphine Reilly, who brought her young sons to Glenreagh on the weekend.

“The kids had a lot of fun watching the working dog demonstrations while trying to guess the weight of the cattle in the yard, and we all loved having a close-up look at the vintage steam machines on display and the woodchopping.

“There were a really good line-up of market stalls and food vendors, and the live entertainment was also really good.”

Renowned singer Mick Harrington, who was the headline act during the 2023 Glenreagh Timber Festival, was the MC this year and said it was great to see so many families in attendance.

“This event is all about being people together,” he said.

“It’s also about supporting the timber industry and sharing its history with visitors.”

Describing the Glenreagh Timber Festival as much loved and popular attraction, Mr Pollard said it presents locals with an opportunity to welcome visitors to the community while showcasing their historical connection to the timber industry.

“Everyone loves it, and for us to put on such a big event in a small town, and to see so many people come out to support it, it means a lot,” he explained.

“It has really put Glenreagh on the map.”

Mr Pollard said introduced changes to the annual event this year, including a designated parking area nearby and a more structured layout for market stalls and food vendors contributed to its overall success, with visitors praising the set up.

“We also had around 100 volunteers assist in the preparations of the event, and that is 10 per cent of the population of Glenreagh,” he said.

“I think that shows just how much the festival means to the local community.

“We’ll debrief, and then we’ll get ready to do it all again in 2025.”

Clarence Valley Independent 31 July 2024

This article appeared in the Clarence Valley Independent, 31 July 2024.

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