The 2024 Glenreagh Timber Festival held last Saturday was a resounding success drawing record crowds and celebrating the region’s rich history and deep connection to the timber industry, according to Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson.
Held at the picturesque Glenreagh recreation reserve grounds, Mr Williamson said the festival is a much-loved event on the annual calendar and showcased the best of local craftsmanship, an impressive display of steam engines, cultural displays and community spirit.
“I was pleased to announce on the day that the event was backed by a $20,000 grant from the NSW Government to help with its promotion, and this has certainly paid dividends with thousands of visitors flocking to the area providing a real boost to the local economy,” Mr Williamson said.
“The air buzzed with excitement and enthusiasm with plenty of opportunities for children a key focus of the organisers with bouncy castles and inflatable slides to traditional carnival games on hand to entertain them.
“The woodchip and chainsaw events were a crowd favourite with competitors demonstrating remarkable skill and strength in a serious of thrilling timber-cutting challenges.
“Not to be outdone, the impressive display of steam engines was another highlight which saw enthusiasts from near and far bring their meticulously maintained engines, adding a touch of historical charm and awe to the festival.”
Mr Williamson said the Glenreagh Timber Festival was a much-loved event on the annual calendar that has grown significantly over the years and is testament to the hard work and commitment of the organisers, volunteers and sponsors who made it possible.
“The 11 community groups involved rallied over 100 volunteers who dedicated their time to the event. That’s 10 percent of the population of Glenreagh which is just remarkable,” Mr Williamson said.
“It’s events like these that should be backed with Government support to help them grow by reaching a wider audience, and I thank and congratulate everyone involved in making this year’s event a huge success.
“I also thank my NSW Nationals colleagues, the Member for Coffs Harbour, Gurmesh Singh and Member for Oxley, Michael Kemp for coming along and supporting the event.”
PHOTO: Richie Williamson is pictured with some of the hardworking organisers of the Glenreagh Timber Festival, his NSW Nationals colleagues, Gurmesh Singh and Michael Kemp and former The Voice Australia semi-finalist Mick Harrington (red & black flannie)
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