How Kangaroo Valley kicked up their feet at the Back to Kangaroo Valley Week in 1988
On Saturday 24 September there was a “Light Luncheon Available” with the “Inauguration of the Flying Fox”; a hockey match; St Joseph’s Church service and straight after “Wine and Cheese followed” at the Kangaroo Valley Hall.
Sunday 25 September saw church services at the Anglican Church and the Uniting Church, but at different times. A street parade from Hampden Bridge to the Showground followed with trophies for “Best Float, Best Dressed Bike, The Better Lady Godiva”. After the parade there was tree planting, a harness derby, BBQ lunch, craft market and white elephant stalls. To end the day a “Smorgasbord at the Bowling Club – $5.00 per head” was put on.
Monday 26 September saw an open day and children’s art show at the Public School; tours of the Power Station and Dam; “Shove Ha’penny Contest at Friendly Inn”; and 1920 movie “The Man from Kangaroo” showing at the Hall that night.
On Tuesday 27 September 2ST were conducting radio interviews in the morning; there was a Combined Bowls Day and Tennis Tournament and “Ben Hall” film night at the Hall.
On Wednesday 28 September the Tennis Tournament continued; a Golf Day at Devon Hills Resort with a Woolshed Luncheon; a tour of Sharply Vale and farm visits.
On Thursday 29 September a Junior Tennis Tournament was played; a bus tour of gardens; tree planting at the Cemetery and a “Heritage Ball at the KV Hall”, where “Period Costume Optional – B.Y.O.G.” Dinner would be served at $10.00 per head and you could dance to Alan Ford’s Orchestra.
Friday 30 September was a late start, at 12 noon, after the Ball the night before with a picnic lunch at the Showground and fun sports day. Cricket eliminations were played throughout the week and the Cricket Final followed with a “Twilight Rodeo” with BBQ dinner available.
At 3pm on Saturday 1 October a “Sink Time Capsule” was placed at the Pioneer Farm and that night a Bush Dance at the Hall – B.Y.O.G. with supper provided – featuring “Wongawilli Bush Band” and a “Horse Endurance Ride at Showground”.
It would be interesting to know, as the reader of the above, what your thoughts are. Can you see yourself in one of the photos? It was suggested the Historical Society might like to do this all over again this year to celebrate our 70 plus years. Sorry, but I was exhausted just at the thought!
Our membership is not as big as it used to be and our museum items are needing lots of attention; however, if you feel you can help by recording history or preserving some amazing museum objects, for the Kangaroo Valley Historical Society, please call me on 0466 954 681.
Christine Murphy