The festival began with a lively debate between the Inverell Toastmasters and Breakfast Toastmasters, and Inverell Mayor Barry Johnston was named Communicator of the Year at the debate.

Gabi Potbury was named Young Communicator of the Year. Ann Clydesdale of Inverell Tourism said the festival was looking to be a great success.

“It has been a great start to the festival so far, particularly with the beautiful weather we have been having.

“The festival started with a lively debate from the Toastmasters, and we had the races, dog show, car show, quilt show, flower show and the art exhibition on over the weekend.”

There is plenty more events coming up during the week, with the Restoration and Preservation Expo at the Inverell Transport Museum on Wednesday, featuring the Shannons Superrig and Goggomobil.

Also on Wednesday is a Newstead tour of the north homestead and shearing shed with bookings to be made at the Inverell Tourist Centre.

The Art Gallery is open all week displaying the annual competitive exhibition, and the town will be a shopper’s paradise on Thursday as the Inverell Chamber of Commerce Market Day gets into full swing.

The Festival continues until Sunday October 23, with plenty more events to come this weekend, including the grand finale, with fireworks spectacular, the Telstra Road to Tamworth heats and Jetty Road and Felicity Urquart performing.