Kicking off with an evening of silent theatre, music and poetry; this year’s Sapphire City Festival officially began at the annual Communicator of the Year dinner on Friday, October 20.
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Founder of the Inverell and Surrounding Districts Memories Facebook page Allison Lane was awarded the top prize for her role in connecting people from all over the globe through their mutual love of the area. The page currently has well over 8000 members.
Ashford’s Emily Murphy was named Junior Communicator of the Year for her wide involvement in community events, including agricultural shows and fundraising.
Inverell Theatre Company performers Peter Caddey, Jade Bradley, Maggie Thomas and Lachlan McDonald took on the unique challenge of telling the tale of their characters’ fight over a comfortable park bench without using words. The energetic mimes were a crowd favourite, and demonstrated the wide variety of communication techniques the Inverell Breakfast Toastmasters promote.
Britt Turner Conley performed two songs on the night, and Rob Parsons shared his love for bush poetry.
The weekend was bursting with festival events, from Holy Trinity School’s ever popular race day, to a Shindig in the Shed to raise funds for the Nullamanna Hall. Inverell Swimming Club took a step back in time, as old and new members gathered to celebrate 100 years in operation.
Culture-lovers were invited to learn more about the town in a walking tour led by the Family History Group and many explored ‘Sporting Spirit’ themed Inverell Art Prize pieces during happy hour at the Inverell Art Gallery.
The Body, Mind and Soul Expo, two bowls carnivals, a fossicking tour, quilt show and open townhouses gave festival-goers a glimpse into Inverell’s rich community.
Around 5000 people are expected to visit during the festival, which officially finishes with a parade, the Great Duck Race, the queen crowning ceremony and fireworks on Saturday, October 28. Local singers and entertainers are busy polishing their performing skills in time for Inverell’s Got Talent this Friday night, October 27.
More exciting events follow on Sunday and Monday, including open gardens, a karate championship and an Elizabeth Campbell and Friends concert.
To see a full schedule of events, visit the Sapphire City Festival website.