Five Rivers Rule
15 July 2010A concept born out of the need to attract visitors to the town of Balranald and boost the local economy, has taken off in the shape of an outback festival that is set to become an event not to be missed.
This three day festival to be held 1-3 October 2010 will have something for everyone, Mia Zaffina one of the driving forces behind the festival said, “When I talk to holiday makers or people passing through the region, they always say the same thing, they are crying out to really experience what the bush is all about. Our friendliness, history and humour are all qualities this festival will exhibit.” The Five Rivers Outback Festival will include a bush dance at the historic Yanga Woolshed and National Park rangers will be conducting guided tours of the notable Yanga Homestead.
A tour of the Burke and Wills Trek through the Balranald Shire will give visitors the chance to emulate the history books and the Royal Society of Victoria will be entertaining the crowd with an information session on Bourke & Wills passing through Balranald 150 years ago.
There is talk of Macca from ABC radio’s “Australia All Over” program attending to join in the celebrations, and another major draw card is the “My Camp Oven Rules” a massive camp oven cooking competition to test the skills of the best camp cooks.
Chris Littlemore, General Manager of Balranald Shire says “This will also be a perfect weekend for travellers to explore one of Australia’s newest National Parks – Yanga. Featuring 170 kilometres of river frontage, it has rich colonial and indigenous heritage, extensive Redgum forests and riverine wetlands, its going to be a cracking festival”
Balranald Inc. is the committee behind the Festival. The committee members consist of passionate local businesses and community leaders. As Chris Littlemore explains, “This festival aligns with Balranald Shires Economic Development Plan and the Balranald Inc. Action Plan. Council provides the support but the townspeople are running the show. It’s great to see our community working together to promote Balranald and assist in economic development initiatives.”
With funding and support from Balranald Shire, National Parks, Regional Development Australia Murray and winnings from an entry in the ABC’s Revive and Thrive Challenge. Balranald Inc is promising an event that will not only promote the history of this part of the country, but will showcase how friendly and welcoming the townspeople of Balranald are, and how much of a good time they like to have!
For further information contact the Balranald Information Centre website or phone 1800 444 043 03 5020 1599 or visit their website
