This weekend Kempsey Railway is marking its centenary with three days of festivities.
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The event will kick-off at noon on Saturday, November 25 with a reunion luncheon for ex-rail workers, and their families and friends. Unfortunately, bookings for lunch have closed.
Guest speaker Mrs Joan Dooley will entertain diners with relatable stories of her father’s time as manager of the Kempsey Railway Refreshment Rooms.
The Tin Hare Rail Motor will arrive in the early afternoon in time for a 3.40pm journey to Eungai that will be back in Kempsey by 4.45pm.
At 5.30pm there is a wine and cheese trip to Macksville which is scheduled to return at 7.45pm.
The celebrations amp up on Sunday with a massive family fun day. Go along to enjoy the musical performances and carnival atmosphere, purchase a souvenir or shop at the market stalls, browse the vintage car and bike displays or sample a Devonshire Tea served in the Anglican Church Hall. There will also be a jumping castle for the kids and plenty of delicious food and beverage available, including a BBQ.
The ceremonial part of the 100-year commemoration will take place on Monday.
School choirs from West Kempsey Public School and St Joseph’s Primary School will perform from 9.30am.
At 10.20am Uncle Bob Smith will deliver the Welcome to Country. Then Mayor Liz Campbell will extend a warm welcome to all visitors.
At 10.30am Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey will unveil a commemorative plaque and light aircraft from the Kempsey Flying Club will conduct a flyover before the official speeches.
The weekend draws to a close with morning tea and the cutting of the centenary cake from 11am.