The Manning River Aquatic Festival lives in the hearts and minds of all of us who grew up in its hey day.
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The festival parade was legendary. Thousands of people lined Taree's main street and clambered onto roofs and awnings to view the incredible floats prepared by clubs and organisations as well as businesses, and including candidates in the Aquatic Queen quest.
Held over the Australia Day long weekend, the carnival program featured sailing, speed boats and rowing on the river, motorcycle racing at the Old Bar Roadside Circuit, fun runs, sand modelling competitions at Old Bar Beach, a children's fancy dress competition and entertainment by leading Australian performers such as Jade Hurley, Little Pattie, Judy Stone, Col Joy, The Delltones and Marcia Hines.
And then there was the "bucks' show" at Taree RSL, then located on the riverbank, on the Sunday morning, often featuring performers from the night before. It was tradition for the RSL to announce how much beer had been sold during the two hour show - 36 x 18 gallon kegs was one milestone.
The riverbank was lined with carnival rides and sideshows, and numerous food stalls selling everything from fairy floss and toffee apples to dagwood dogs and hot chips.
Families set up chairs and picnic rugs to enjoy the action on the river. And sometimes it rained, but that didn't deter the crowd.
Can you help?
The Manning River Times photographer was regularly tasked to attended social functions and this stunning collection of images is a snapshot of the time.
We have been delving into the Manning River Times photo archives and while every picture tells a story, sometimes the background to that story is lost.
Which is why we are asking our readers to help. Do you recognise a face, a venue, an occasion?
Over the next few weeks we will publish a selections of images from events such as the Manning River Aquatic Festival (remember the children's dress up night), Taree Show, race days, surf carnivals and school functions.
Soak up the nostalgia. Feedback and shared memories are most welcome.