Council kicks off 150th celebrations in February
Wingecarribee Shire Council will officially launch the 150th anniversary, or Sesquicentenary celebrations, of the townships of Moss Vale and Bowral with a Community Gathering on the Bong Bong Common on Friday 1 February 2013 from 4.30pm to 7.00pm.
Both Bowral and Moss Vale communities are encouraged to walk or ride from either end of the picturesque Bong Bong Track which is located adjacent to the Wingecarribee River.
A ‘pop-up’ rest area will be erected directly behind the Briars and will include a free sausage sizzle, entertainment, displays, and opportunities to purchase Sesquicentenary merchandise and learn more about upcoming events.
Wingecarribee Shire Deputy Mayor, Councillor Larry Whipper will officially launch the Community Gathering celebrations at 5pm with a cake cutting ceremony at the birthplace of the Shire’s European settlement. Member for Goulburn, the Hon Pru Goward MP will also take part in the celebrations.
Birthday celebrations continue on Sunday 3 February when both Bowral and Moss Vale Cricket Clubs host a Cricket Picnic Family Day on the grounds of Bradman Oval. The day will also include displays of historic cricketing memorabilia. Members and spectators are encouraged to wear period cricketing attire and both clubs are keen to hear from past players and family members who may know of any club history or have any documents of interest of their respective clubs.
On the weekend of the 9 and 10 of February the Berrima District Historic Vehicle Club will host a historic car rally starting at the Bong Bong Picnic Racecourse on Kangaloon Road, Bowral celebrating 150 Years of Transport with a motor vehicle rally across the Shire. The day will feature over 200 exhibits of classic and vintage cars, trucks, tractors and motor bikes. Trade stalls including food and refreshments will also be available.
Celebrations for February culminate with a special Sesquicentenary Church Service at the Moss Vale Uniting Church on Sunday 17 February.
“After three years of preparations and regular meetings with community volunteers, it’s a great feeling knowing the celebrations are finally here,” said Council’s Coordinator of the festivities, Mark Pepping. “We truly hope the community takes part in the celebrations and find the variety of events interesting.”
For more information on Sesquicentenary events, locations and starting times, visit www.wsc.nsw.gov.au/sesquicentenary-2013, phone Wingecarribee Shire Council on phone 4868 0888 or Tourism Southern Highlands on phone 4871 2888.
A year-long program of events can also be found on the limited edition Sesquicentenary calendars available from Council’s Moss Vale Civic Centre, the Southern Highlands Tourism Visitor Information Centre in Mittagong and newspaper and gift shops across the Shire starting from just $9.95.