Wednesday, 22 February 2017
GUYRA’S famous potatoes have gone straight from the underground to the NSW Parliament after a speech put the Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival on the public record forever.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall delivered an address in Parliament last week to recognise the efforts of volunteers in every aspect of the event.
Mr Marshall said after their countless hours of work, it was the least he could do.
“Dozens of volunteers work hundreds of hours to make the Guyra Lamb and Potato Festival a huge success,” Mr Marshall said.
“The community of Guyra will continue to thrive and when it is running, what a festival it is. You can have your fill of locally sourced lamb and potatoes in the form of rolls, pies, chips, bakes and more roasts than you can poke a chop at.
“In many ways, the Hansard is a history book that records all the big events and ideas that define NSW. It’s an incredible achievement for the town to attract thousands of visitors from across the country, and now it will be on the public record forever.
“The 31st festival was better than ever. Whether it was the perfect potato bake by Bertha Reeves, or Ian Russell’s wrangling of big city musos, the event was put together with a sense of professionalism and civic pride that really helps it stand out”
After Guyra was hit by a sudden storm, the community rallied to get the event back on track. RFS and SES crews from Guyra, Black Mountain and Armidale collaborated to reconstruct tents, sweep up debris and help those injured by the storm.
Mr Marshall retold the story of their actions to the speaker of the house.
“The RFS’ Steve Mepham and SES’ David Godlonton worked and tirelessly with their crews. It was an honour to share their dedication and perseverance in the face of struggle with my colleagues, and it will be recorded in the parliamentary Hansard in perpetuity.
“Being elected to parliament is about so much more than politics and legislation. It’s also my honour and duty to celebrate the thousands of people that keep the Northern Tablelands moving forward.”