Escape the city and head to the country town of Stroud for their annual Brick Throwing competition, where bricks are not all that are thrown. This unique event, now in its 58th year, also sees rolling pins hurled by women and rubber chickens flying from children's hands.
Kicking it off is a street parade, with this year's theme being
Trains, Planes and Automobiles. You can expect some interesting and wacky floats along with marchers making their way through the main street to Stroud Showground, where all the festivities take place.
A flag raising ceremony and military re-enactment will occur before the throwing starts with local MPs Dr David Gillespie and Mr Michael Johnsen throwing the first brick and pin, thus declaring the competition open. Men will then give it their all for the title of '2018 Supreme Chucker'. But beware, Hunter strongman and current Australian champion brick thrower, Kurt Livens, will be back to defend his title and distance record of 97' 7". All categories, including women's and children's events, will start from noon. Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded later in the afternoon.
There's another record to be broken this year with Stroud attempting to break a Guinness Book record of the largest gathering of people wearing Akubra hats in a single venue. It's a country fashion statement with the Akubra brand born way back in 1912 and the year is the exact number this historic town is looking to beat in order to knock out Kempsey, who have held the record since 2012. Beginning at 12.30pm, all participants will also go in the draw for the chance to win a new Akubra hat.
A wood chopping contest near the rodeo ring sees 7 events, including an Underhand Handicap, a Standing Block Handicap and a Veteran's Handicap. There's also a Taekwondo exhibition and a tug-o-war heat.
Music-wise there's the Marching Koalas, No Control (Allan & George), Megan Spiller, Dekota Blue and country music legend Lucky Starr (who can forget that 1962 hit
I've Been Everywhere) as well as African drummers, the Waratah Brass Band and the Newcastle RSL Pipe Band. Buskers are also welcome at the event.
Car lovers will enjoy the vintage display of Ford cars whilst creative women will delight in the quilt exhibition and children will love magician Troppo Bob as well as a hat hunt and a host of novelty events. Amusement rides plus gigantic sports and games, such as Dart Ball and Connect 4, provide further entertainment.
Craft stalls and market stalls will grace the showground, along with food stalls and bar facilities. Eftpos will be available for cash withdrawals.
Check out the
main program of wacky traditions for further details and timings.
Only one hour north of Newcastle or two and a half hours north of Sydney, make it a day out or weekend away with a difference and be sure to take a look around the picturesque village of Stroud itself with a heritage walk of the convict-era buildings. The whole town is under National Trust classification.
