On Saturday September 29 and Sunday September 30, 2001 the Araluen Progress Association will be holding its annual long weekend activities in the Araluen Valley, situated 27km’s south of Braidwood.
The picturesque valley is known for the large amount of gold extracted in the 1800’s and presently the growing of delicious stonefruit and prime cattle production.
The Araluen Federation Festival 2001 will kick off at 10am sharp at the Araluen Recreation Ground. There will be a line up of events and entertainment for everyone. Races, games and a free icecream for the children and many novelty events including horizontal bungee, tug-o-war, pillow fights, whip cracking, cross-cut saw and the pub crawl. With ribbons and special commemorative medals for the overall best competitor of the day, you’re guaranteed to have a great time joining in at the Araluen celebrations.
Whip maker Jack Christie will be showing his skills, along with many other displays. Be entertained with live music and presentations from local and regional guests including country singer Kelly Moy.
Precision Helicopters will be flying their machine in to attend the day. They will be offering joy flights, at reasonable rates, if you wish to view the day’s activities and the beautiful Araluen Valley from a different perspective.
A barbecue will be available also drinks and refreshments. Admission for the day will be $5 per family and $2 per single. Could you please leave your dogs at home.
At 2pm the Araluen Federation Celebration 2001 will be officially opened by our guest of honour, historian Mr Chris Woodlands.
Don’t forget tickets in the raffle now available at $2 each or three for $5 with all proceeds going towards the construction of the Araluen Museum. 1st prize: camp oven made by Furphy’s, inscribed with ‘Araluen 2001’ valued $230; 2nd prize: swag generously donated by John Lamont of Braidwood Rural valued $200; 3rd prize: Norsewear vest supplied by Muttons of Braidwood valued $90; 4th prize: stock whip handcrafted and donated by David Cooper of Braidwood Saddlery valued $80. Drawing of the raffle will be announced on the day.
To top the day off enjoy a cool drink at the Araluen Hotel with hosts Stan and Margaret, whilst enjoying music by ‘State of Mind’.
The grand finale of the weekend’s celebrations will be the Centenary of Federation Grand Parade commencing at 2pm on Sunday September 30. Participants to assemble at the Araluen Federation Hall for official ceremonies with special honorary guest. A presentation will also be made to the trustees of the Araluen Recreation Reserve from the Department of Land and Water Conservation in recognition of the their long service in this position.
The procession will then be led by the Queanbeyan Branch of the Lighthorse Brigade onwards to the Araluen Recreation Grounds for festivities and entertainment from days gone by. From boiling the billy to the maypole dance, there will be something of interest for everyone. Barbecue, drinks and refreshments will be available.
As part of these festivities we will also be holding a Bush Poetry Recital Competition. There will be a junior and a senior section also a category for those of you talented enough to present an original poem. Call the secretary on 4846 4142 for competition details. Everyone is welcome to attend this memorable occasion.
On Sunday evening from 8pm the Araluen Federation Hall will be the venue for a night to remember with live band, Backlash. Admission to the dance will be $7 including an excellent supper.
A big weekend is planned and we look forward to seeing you. Araluen has a camping area situated by the creek, there is plenty of space and the surroundings pleasant.
Any enquires to the secretary on 4846 4142 or the president on 4846 4020.
Upcoming events
Construction of the Araluen Museum: The Araluen Progress Association in conjunction with the Araluen Recreation Trust are planning construction of a museum in the Araluen Recreation Reserve to accommodate and preserve items and documents from our extensive and significant gold digging and pioneering history. We are currently seeking donations of artifacts to preserve. Call Don on 4846 4085 for further information.
Access For All Federation Celebration - October 27 and 28: Will see the gathering of horse riders, trail bike riders, four wheel drivers and associated groups at Araluen to celebrate the Centenary of Federation. Riders will travel the fire and bridle trails including the recently re-opened Shoebridge Track to meet in Araluen. Food and entertainment will be catered for at Araluen on Saturday night. If you are interested in participating in this historical ride please call J Snell on 4846 4014 or Neil Waddell on 4846 4056 for further information.
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