Woodchips flew, the oysters were delicious, and the weather was absolutely superb.

Thousands of locals and tourists enjoyed the best Karuah had to offer at the annual Oyster and Timber Festival last Saturday.

They came from all over New South Wales.

Among the competitors in the woodchop, World Champion Australian axeman Brad Delosa.

“I’m from Lithgow in the Blue Mountains, but this is one of my favourite events,” Brad told The News Of The Area.

For Trish Marsh from the Hunter Valley, woodchopping is a family affair.

“I have 3 sons, a husband, and a son’s girlfriend competing.”

There was something for everyone at the Festival, from the duck race to junior fishing competitions and an oyster eating challenge.

The entire town of Karuah kicks in to make the event a success.
Karuah RSL Club is the major sponsor of the Festival.

“It keeps going from strength to strength,” said RSL Secretary ManagerRoss Parr.
“We also have the only indoor woodchopping event in Australia.”

The local IGA made a donation on Saturday and the market stalls and competitors all contribute to help keep the festival financially viable.

It also requires lots of hard work and dedication by the volunteers.

“We’re already talking today about what worked and didn’t work so it’s a whole year in the planning,” said Committee member and Secretary, Stacey Ebben.

In the wake of Saturday’s success, it’s sure to be back next year.

By Margie TIERNEY