Local collaboration

Local collaboration

Bairnsdale Aerodrome came alive with people at the weekend with thousands enjoying a day out at the East Gippsland Field Days (EGFD).
EGFD chairman, Ronald Alexander, said on Saturday alone 6000 adults passed through the gates.
“We were helped by good weather and a very supportive public,” Mr Alexander said. 
Organiser, Sue-Ellen Latham, said the committee was incredibly grateful to the local community who supported the event year in and out.
“Due to COVID restrictions, exhibitors were capped at the 200 mark this year, which is around 50 less than we would normally have,” Ms Latham said.
“However the quality of products on sale was exceptional and we thank all of the site holders for their patience while we worked through an ever-changing trove of new rules and restrictions.”
She said gate numbers were at capacity each day and the volunteers manning the entry and exit points did an incredible job keeping track of contact details and entry numbers as the event moved to a predominantly online ticketing system.
“In terms of entry numbers it was by far the most successful event in the seven years I have been in this role and I genuinely thank the community for their patience and support as we navigated unchartered waters with COVID restrictions and online tickets.
“On the whole it was wonderful to see such a respectful and patient crowd, most of which were clearly so excited to be out and about once again.”
Ms Latham said the half-price tickets courtesy of funding from EG Shire, EG Water, Southern Rural Water and EGCMA were well received.
“It came at a great time for East Gippsland residents who have been through so much over the past two years,” she said.
“We also need to give a big shout out to the hundreds of volunteers who give up their time year round to make sure the field days run.
“From maintaining the grounds 12 months of the year, to working throughout the event in the car park, ticket boxes, main office and as COVID marshalls and runabout workers.
“The field days is a genuine collaboration between the committee, Lindenow Lions Club, the Lindenow community and surrounding schools and sporting clubs.
“We might take the chance to have a debrief and a few weeks to re-surface, then planning will commence for 2022,” she said.

IMAGE: Pictured at the East Gippsland Field Days nice and early on Friday morning was the Mekken family from Newmerella, Jason and Kate, with Charlotte, 4, and Jack, 6. They said they were in the market for a new cattle crush and they were happy to be making their annual pilgrimage to the field days, especially after COVID. K109-4574

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