The Riverina has lined up an eclectic social calendar this week – from the Gundagai Show to kids’ art workshops and a jam-packed cultural festival telling the “untold Wiradjuri story”.
In between, the region’s most fabulous foodie products converge in Ganmain and over in Narrandera, there’s a good old-fashioned rodeo. Sunday brings a women’s wellness day to Griffith and on Wednesday, an Aussie author comes to Bland for a chat and writing workshop ideal for budding writers.
All Weekend
Warangesda cultural festival
When: Friday 17 February and Saturday 18 February, various times, see program here
Where: Warangesda Mission, Warangesda, 8192 Kidman Way, Darlington Point
Cost: Adult $15, child $5, pay what you can option, $25 bush tucker meal add-on, book here.
An opportunity to immerse yourself in Indigenous culture and thought, this festival comprises two days of music, panels, theatre, dance, food, storytelling, art, interactive workshops and more. Highlights include a special performance from Christine Anu, the “Theatre Under the Stars” component, discussion panels hosted by Professor Stan Grant Jnr and Charles Sturt University and the Marrambidya Music Festival, featuring performances from Roger and Buddy Knox, Birdz and Dizzy Doolan.
Saturday
Gundagai Show
When: Saturday 18 February, 6 am to late
Where: Gundagai Showground, Oibell Dr, Gundagai
Cost: Adults $10, pensioners $5, children under 15 years free, vehicles $2, car reservations $3 to $7, payable upon entry.
Though there are horse events all day on Friday 17 and Sunday 19 February, Saturday is the main show day in Gundagai. Expect all you would from a country show, including a kids’ animal farm, show dogs, show jumping displays, exhibits, rides, buskers, a rock climbing wall, a magician, vintage cars, sideshow alleys and show bags.
Gourmet Ganmain
When: Saturday 18 February, 4 pm to 8 pm
Where: Victory Gardens Ganmain, Ford St, Ganmain
Cost: Gold coin donation, payable upon entry.
Meet your mates, grab dinner and soak in the chilled-out vibes of this event, designed to bring some of the best the region has to offer its foodies. Browse more than 60 stalls and head to the bar area where you’ll find Tumut River brewing, Borambola wines, Vineyard 1207, Happy Days & Co and The Aisling Distillery. There will be a roving acrobatics crew from Zana Dance Academy and live music by Montana Pretzel, among other live entertainment.
Trivia Night for Wagga Ovarian Cancer Group
When: Saturday 18 February, 6:30 pm – 10 pm
Where: Rules Club Wagga Wagga, Fernleigh Road, Wagga Wagga
Cost: $10, book here.
Nothing beats trivia for a fun night out with mates – unless it’s for a good cause. Organised to raise funds for Ovarian Cancer Australia, this trivia night is MCd by local comedian Aidan Mungai. Gather seven of your friends to form a table and expect a night of fun, entertainment, spot prizes and giveaways. There will also be a raffle on the night. Rock up at 6:30 pm for a 7:30 pm start and remember, this event is cash only.
Narrandera Rodeo
When: Saturday 18 February, 6 pm to 11:45 pm
Where: Narrandera Showground, 35-45 Elizabeth St, Narrandera
Cost: $15, payable upon entry.
Grab your mates and head down to Narrandera Showground to catch one of New South Wales’s longest running professional rodeos. As the evening cools, check out the best of the roughriders, buckjumpers and bulls. A kiosk will be available with hot and cold food and cold drinks.
Still Rock & Roll To Me: Billy Joel Tribute
When: Saturday 18 February, 2 pm and 7:30 pm
Where: CSU Riverina Playhouse, 8 Cross Street, Wagga Wagga
Cost: $48, book here.
Local musician Josh McKellar stars in this tribute to the legendary Billy Joel. You’ll hear all of your favourites including We Didn’t Start The Fire, Uptown Girl, Piano Man and many more. Josh McKellar isn’t just a talented vocalist – he recently enlisted in the Australian Army where he is currently based at Kapooka and works as the vocalist for the Australian Army Band.
Sunday
Mastering the Art of Painting workshop
When: Sunday 19 February, 10 am to 11:30 am (six- to 12-year-olds) and 12 pm to 2 pm (13- to 18-year-olds)
Where: Griffith Art Gallery, 167 Banna Ave, Griffith
Cost: 6- to 12-year-olds $30, 13- to 18-year-olds $35.
Your young creatives are invited to join artist Isis-Rae Ronan from Tambourine Art Studio for one of two painting workshops looking at artists Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso. The first session is for ages six to 12 and then ages 13 to 18. Creative Kids Vouchers are accepted and all materials are supplied.
Shine 2023 Women’s Wellness Day
When: Sunday 19 February, 11 am to 5 pm
Where: Exies Bagtown Motel, Function Room, 2 Blumer Ave, Griffith
Cost: $39, book here.
This jam-packed program of fabulous guest speakers and topics will help inspire and equip women to achieve better health. The keynote speaker is Heather Ward, motorcycling, travel and people enthusiast and author of Fat Bob and the Blonde. She’s accompanied by presentations from local health and wellness professionals, a forum about mental health in our region and a range of interactive sessions. Tickets include a gift bag valued at more than $35, and all ticket holders have the chance to win a float therapy session.
Wednesday
Author Talk and Writing Workshop
When: Wednesday 22 February, 10:30 am
Where: Bland Shire Library, 6 Shire Street, West Wyalong
Cost: Free, to book call 6979 0272.
Calling budding writers and bookworms, join inspiring young Australian author JS Davidson as she speaks about her life as a young mother of two who writes fantasy and romantic dramas. Then at 12:30 pm Davidson will run a writing workshop. Both events are free but bookings are essential, so call the library to secure your spot.