Karoonda Farm Fair 2009 Wrap Up
What a great two days of action.
The Yard Dogs and Working Dogs provided some great action – with the fast and furious Yard Dogs under lights Friday night throwing in comedy as well as they raced the clock.
The Mallee Millions sheep race raised funds for the Karoonda Community Playground Project – helped along in part by the very popular black sheep taking part. It was a toss up as to whether the sheep running or the punters chasing were the most entertaining but either way they drew a crowd and a great deal of enthusiasm.
The sheep counting was again hotly contested and quite close and possibly frustrating – the sheep aren’t always cooperative.
The Speed Shear contest on Friday Night was another great success. The atmosphere was electric as the large crowd cheered on their favourites. Many local lads gave it a try and some of the competitors even drove from the West Coast, where they were working, to compete in the event.
Shannon Warnest was on hand again to inspire the younger shearers and provide some valued tips.
The Shearing competitions on Saturday were taken a little more seriously and were hard fought. Once again the local lads put in a great showing.
A great contest ensued in the Wool Handling events. Competing for the Karoonda title as well as the State Title the top two will represent the state in the teams event and the top three will represent in the individual contest. Matt Stasinowsky copped plenty of ribbing after being beaten to top honours by his girlfriend Tina Denholm in a very tight contest.
The friendship and co-operation amongst the entire shearing shed competitors, helpers and officials helped to set the atmosphere and made the two days of events much more entertaining.
While overall crowds were a little lower than last year they were still enthusiastic and the site holders where still reporting a successful fair. The huge Australian Zircon Lifestyle pavilion was a very popular place. The Fashion Parades were again extremely entertaining and well put together.
The shade sailed food court area was a great place to kick back and enjoy a drink, some food and some great music.
The BankSA Kids Entertainment Marquee was hugely popular with families and children. The face painting, craft, puppet shows and area for the littlies to run around and play were well praised by those who attended. As always Grandpa’s Nursery, Ravello’s Circus and Wobbles the Clown were also greatly enjoyed by the children (and being free – appreciated by the parents).
Other popular displays appeared to be the Reptile Awareness sessions, the bull ride, the Fire Extinguisher Demonstrations and the vintage cars.
The Stihl girls and the pink fairies made a little bit of an impact also – although for different reasons I think.
Four site holders who have been long term attendees at the Farm Fair were awarded certificates of appreciation. These were: Landmark Greenfield, Mike Mason Fencing, BBB Outback Clothing and Rural Merchandise Trading.
Ray Bald, Fair Manager, was also presented with a gift in recognition of his 25 years of service to the Farm Fair.
All in all not a bad way to celebrate our 25th year.
Thank you to all who helped in any way to get this event happening and to have it run as smoothly and successfully as it did. Your dedication is very much appreciated.
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