18 October 2024

Nine things to do in the regions this week (18 - 24 October)

| Claire Sams
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A child throwing hay in the air at Murrumbateman Field Days.

Murrumbateman Field Days are returning this October and everyone from far and wide is invited. Photo: Murrumbateman Field Days.

It seems we’ve been making our way through the year at lightning speed. And reaching the end of October means the return of several annual festivals across the regions as well as other shows and activities that will keep everyone entertained.

Multiple days

A crowd of people walking in front of market stalls at Murrumbateman Field Days

Murrumbateman Field Days will feature activities and demonstrations for the young and young-at-heart. Image: Supplied.

Murrumbateman Field Days

When: 19 October and 20 October, 8 am to 4 pm
Where: Murrumbateman Recreation Grounds, 19 East Street, Murrumbateman
Cost: Tickets from $22 to $82.50 available via 123Tix.

Head to Murrumbateman for a taste of rural life. The Murrumbateman Field Days bring together farmers, agricultural businesses and those living on the land from across capital country – and further afield. Attendees can check out visits from working dogs, a range of horse events, displays of agricultural technology and lifestyle exhibitors, camel rides, free face painting, a snake display and enjoy more country fun.

Gina Chick

Gina Chick, winner of the first series of survival reality television show Alone Australia, is speaking at the Headland Writers Festival in Tathra. Photo: Mark Rogers.

Headland Writers Festival

When: 18 October to 20 October, events at various times
Where: Various locations in Tathra, some livestreamed; see program
Cost: Depends on event; see program.

This festival of storytelling is making a return to Tathra – though with several livestreamed events, guests from far and wide can join in. The writers’ festival spans a range of genres and topics as the participating authors and artists lead attendees through live performances, talks and panel discussions and workshops.

Eden Whale Festival poster

Enjoy everything whale-related in this annual festival. Image: Eden Whale Festival/Facebook.

Eden Whale Festival

When: 18 October to 20 October
Where: Events at various locations in Eden; see program
Cost: Depends on event; see program.

The annual whale migration always draws crowds to the South Coast – so check out a festival dedicated to the gentle giant! This year, the schedule includes whale watching tours, the famous street parade through Eden, chainsaw carving, live performances, activities for kids, workshops, a fireworks display and much more.

Friday

When: 18 October, from 8 pm
Where: The B, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, 253 Crawford Street, Queanbeyan
Cost: Tickets from $54 to $59 available via the Performing Arts Centre’s website.

Two Strong Hearts: A tribute to John Farnham & Olivia Newton-John sees audiences hear the best of the famous singers. Together, Anita Spring and Jeff Fallon will perform hits from the Whispering Jack album, songs (and dance moves) from Grease, as well as duets the two legendary musicians performed together. Head along, but don’t be surprised if you feel the urge to dance to the music! The show contains haze effects.

Saturday

Black-and-white photo of two people in costume

Steampunk doesn’t exist in real life, but every year it takes over Goulburn. Photo: DTC Photography.

Steampunk Victoriana Fair

When: 19 October, 9 am to 5 pm
Where: Marsden Weir (off Fitzroy Street), Goulburn
Cost: Tickets from $8 to $18 (depending on age, with children under five free) available via Humanitix.

Steampunk (a subgenre of science fiction, set in historical times with steam-powered machinery) is coming to Goulburn! As it returns for its 10th year, the fair is transforming Marsden Weir – and bringing a Victorian flair! Attendees can enjoy sword fighting demonstrations, a costume parade, tea duelling, live performances, horse and carriage rides, market stalls and much more.

South Coast Craft Beer banner

Try some of the craft beers brewed on the South Coast – you may find a new favourite to quench your thirst. Image: South Coast Craft Beer Festival/Facebook.

South Coast Craft Beer Festival

When: 19 October, 3 pm to 9 pm
Where: Milton Showground, 107 Croobyar Road, Milton
Cost: General admission tickets cost $30 per adult (children free entry but must be accompanied by an adult) and $40 for a camping ticket available via StickeyTickets.

Grab some mates and head to Milton Showground – it’s time for a festival showcasing the craft beers brewed on the NSW South Coast. Bring a camp chair or picnic blanket and find a spot before exploring what’s on offer!

Wombat Eats, Fatty Dumpling and the Lions Club will be cooking up a feast, while attendees can enjoy live music, a dedicated kids zone and camping opportunities. Proceeds from the festival go towards the Apex Club’s charity projects.

A firefighter and a young boy using a firehose

This annual event brings together Googong’s residents and firefighters in a day of family-friendly fun. Photo: Googong RFS.

Googong Rural Fire Service Open Day

When: 19 October, 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Bunyip Park, Wellsvale Drive, Googong
Cost: Free entry.

As a new bush season starts, have you thought about what you would do in a fire? Googong’s Rural Fire Service Open Day is returning for another year with local firies from the Jerrabomberra Creek Rural Fire Brigade keen to answer questions and help residents plan.

There will also be family-friendly activities including live music, chances to try on some of the firies’ emergency gear, and stalls from local organisations and sporting clubs. Attendees can also bring a picnic to enjoy or try delicious treats from stallholders (with burgers, a sausage sizzle, cupcakes and more on the menu).

Thursday

A woman smiling at a man in an office

The Batemans Bay expo is being held as part of NSW Small Business Month. Photo: File.

Batemans Bay Expo

When: 24 October, 1 pm to 7 pm
Where: Batemans Bay Soldiers Club, 6 Beach Road, Batemans Bay
Cost: Free entry, though online registration is essential.

The NSW Small Business Commission is leading a series of expos across the state during NSW Small Business Month 2024. This week, it’s coming to the coast.

The Small Business Month Expos will give small business owners and their staff the opportunity to network with government agencies and large organisations, connect with other small businesses (including those from their region), and learn new skills. The day will see top industry professionals and emerging talent come together to showcase the latest advancements and trends.

Man's headshot on a blue and yellow background

Benjamin Stevenson’s latest novel comes with a festive twist – but what does it have to do with an advent calendar? Image: Eurobodalla Libraries/Eventbrite.

Author Talk with Benjamin Stevenson

When: 24 October, 10:30 am to 11:30 am (Moruya) and 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm (Narooma)
Where: Moruya Library, Vulcan Street, Moruya or Narooma Library, Field Street, Narooma
Cost: Free entry, but attendees need to book via Eventbrite at Moruya Library or at Narooma Library.

Bestselling author Benjamin Stevenson is coming to two Eurobodalla locations for an entertaining chat about his latest book – Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret. While he’s known for his Ernest Cunningham Mysteries, his new book has a Christmas twist (and even a deadly advent calendar). The session also provides refreshments.

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