FOLLOWING its inaugural success, the second Grey and Thespian Mardi Gras is just over a week away.

A group of dedicated volunteers from the Hawks Nest/Tea Gardens Progress Association has been working tirelessly organising its many events.

“It’s now envisaged that the Mardi Gras will grow over time to become a major event of regional and possibly national significance and focus favourable attention on Hawks Nest, Tea Gardens and the whole Midcoast region,” Trevor Jennings told News Of The Area.

The weekend kicks off with the Grey Nomads Golf tournament on Friday 7 April.

Keeping in touch with its nautical theme, the classic film ‘African Queen’ will be shown in the Hawks Nest Community Hall on Friday night.

There’ll also be free wine tasting by Tamburlaine Wines to enjoy Bogart and Hepburn.

On Saturday morning, the Hawks Nest Village Square will come alive with free entertainment from bands, singers, and line dancers.

Free tea and cakes will be on offer to all Seniors.

A Market stall in the adjacent car park will showcase and promote local retirement facilities, mobility aids and local community groups.

On Saturday night, a nautically themed dinner/dance is being held at the Hawks Nest Golf Club with all proceeds going to Alzheimer’s research.

“This event proved very successful last year and tickets are selling fast from the golf club for this year’s event,” Trevor said.

On Sunday morning the children’s movie ‘Finding Dory’ will be shown in the Community Hall.

Entry will be by a gold coin donation.

New to the Mardi Gras is the Kayak’n’Coffee guided tour on the Myall River.

Tours will leave from Moira Pde near Yamba St, weather permitting.

And to cap off a great weekend, a Baby Boomers live show ‘Blast from The Past’ is being staged in the Community Hall on Sunday afternoon.

Tickets for the “African Queen” and “Blast from the Past” are selling fast from Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens pharmacies.

For a full program go to //www.grey-and-thespian-mardi-gras.net.au/.

 

By Margie TIERNEY