THE Back to Bowra festival scheduled for 15 November is shaping up to be a day of old-fashioned fun with billy cart races, tug-of-wars, whipcracking competitions and a street parade part of its jam-packed program in Bowraville’s High Street.
This year marks 150 years since the establishment of the town and although once considered to be the thriving heart of the Nambucca Valley, in recent years Bowraville has struggled with the challenges many other small regional communities are facing.
Many once-bustling hubs across New South Wales are now little more than ghost towns with dwindling populations and few businesses to employ those that remain.
Determined to reverse the trend in Bowraville, a 19-member committee have been holding weekly meetings at the Bowra Hotel in preparation to reinstate this traditional festival which was first held 50 years ago to celebrate the town’s centenary.
This year’s event will see more than 40 market stall holders, four major local sponsors and 17 small business supporters pool their efforts to keep Bowraville alive and celebrate its historic past.
Returning after a hiatus of sixteen years, Back to Bowra is “back on track” according to committee president Gav McKinnon.
“We hope to offer events to suit all ages and interests,” Mr McKinnon said.
“We have a real variety in the line up from face painting, balloon twisting, line dancing, nostalgic artifacts and exhibitions to popular music performers like locals Alicia Parry and Glen Price as well as welcoming some new talent to the stage.
“Spots are limited for things like the billy carts and even though we have six age groups, they are filling up fast.”
The Nambucca Valley Rotary Club will supply six purpose-built billy carts for those who do not have one of their own.
All billy carts entered in the competition will be assessed and approved for roadworthiness by event sponsors Bowraville Tyre & Auto.
One well-known local preparing to race is Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee.
“I’ve got a beaut billy cart ready for Back to Bowra, hand-painted in Peter Brock’s racing colours,” he said.
Back to Bowra Committee Vice President Barney Townley, who attended the festival as a young child, remembers it being the highlight of his year.
“We’re hoping this year’s event will be just as memorable, so we are urging local business owners and producers to book in a stall, build a float or just come along with your family and friends and join in the games.”
To register your interest and to see what is on offer, visit the Back to Bowra website.
By Ned COWIE
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