Victory was snatched from the jaws of defeat on Saturday at Killabakh's annual Day in the Country.
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For the first time in its 33-year history, the event almost had to be cancelled due to a thirteen-hour power outage commencing at 8.30pm on the Friday night and the gale force winds that howled through the night, with the prediction to continue well into Saturday. An emergency 6am meeting on Saturday morning was called to discuss the concerns and it was decided to proceed, noting visitors and stallholder's safety was a priority.
A good call as it turned out as the wind died down mid-morning, the power returned and the visitors arrived in their thousands, travelling from as far afield as Sydney, Newcastle and from across the region with two coaches arriving from Port Macquarie.
Stallholders reported a great day with visitors poring over everything from antiques and old wares to artisan handmade products, plants, books, clothing and even bee boxes. Three local bands provided all-day entertainment, the food stalls all but sold out, the Kids Fun Zone delighted the youngsters and the Art Show in the old schoolhouse was at times standing room only.
The Scarecrow Competition was a big hit once again with appearances by Dame Edna, The Queen, a Cheeky Bum and a Brave Scotsman. Bunnings Taree generously donated gift vouchers for the section winners and operations manager Peter Ragno was on hand to do the judging honours. The display by Taree and District Vintage and Classic Motorcycle Club was much admired and the kids loved the 'can crusher' at the De Olde Nabiac Klub (DONK) display of vintage of stationary engines.
"On behalf of the organising committee, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the section heads, members of the Killabakh community, our many friends and the thousands of visitors who ventured up to Killabakh on Saturday", said George Hoad, one of the event coordinators.
"We all had a sleepless night and a precarious start to the day but by closing time we were so pleased we had decided to proceed. An enormous amount of time and effort goes into the planning and mounting of such an event and the community really rallied to ensure it was another great success!"
All profits from the day are used to maintain and upgrade the Killabakh Hall and its surrounds, the much loved and well used 'heart' of the community.