ONCE notorious for bush ranger Captain Thunderbolt, Uralla is becoming well known for something else.
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Festivals and fun.
With a theme of fairies and elves, the Uralla Thunderbolt’s Festival is ready to kick off with colour.
Festival committee member Bevely Stubberfield has been organising the festival since it started in 1998.
“We work towards it all year, we’re all volunteers so we do it when we can,” Ms Stubberfield said.
Now in it’s 19th year, the festival was called the Thunderbolt’s Spring Fair when it began.
“It was a very, very small event when it started,” Ms Stubberfield said.
“It consisted of a community barbeque that was free, a few market stalls and a small Battle of the Bands.”
Since then the markets have grown far bigger, a street parade has become the jewel of the event and a rodeo and poker run have joined the ballot.
In the park, the Paws Up High Jump will entertain crowds, while Shep Huntly the Master Showman will show off his magic.
Put simply, it’s a fun day out for the community, Ms Stubberfield said.
“It’s very much a community event – it’s an opportunity for organisations to get involved in whatever way they can,” she said.
“We try and keep as much money in Uralla as possible.”
The Poker Run helps book out the accommodation in town, that in turn fills the cafe’s and boutique shops.
People come from as far as Sydney and Queensland to take part.
Last year a punter came from Willow Tree to race in the Pheonix Foundry Billycart Derby.
“Even though the main crowd is local we get people that come from all over,” Ms Stubberfield said.
“We change the festival theme every year.
“This year we thought we would go for something that really targeted the children.”
Ms Stubberfield said she hopes the event is a great free day out in Uralla for families.
“It provides a platform for small businesses to join in,” she said.
“It celebrates many aspects, including history and heritage, and the town’s attractions.”