A decision by Laidley Shire to stage its own ‘Laidley Games’ has proved a winner for the rural community, bringing visitors, entertainment, new economic opportunities, a higher profile and accolades to the Shire. Situated 90 kilometres west of Brisbane, over 3,000 people attended the Games. The event was so well organised it earned Laidley the South East Queensland Regional Tourism Award for 1997.
Professional expertise was employed to organise and promote the Games with a view to ‘doing the job properly’. Mayor Shirley Pitt said the success of the Games was due to the tireless work of Council staff led by Community Services Director, David Churchill.
“Staff worked tirelessly to ensure the program embraced all sections of our community, as well as drawing visitors to our Shire from many parts of Queensland and interstate,” she said.
Held in October, a highlight was the resurrected Mulgowie Gift. This 120 metre sprint had been part of an annual festival of sport in Laidley between 1955 and 1973. The modern event attracted over 30 top runners. Other events included a men’s 175 kilometre road cycling race, a women’s 95 kilometre cycling race and the Laidley Challenge, comprising long distance running and walking events.
Team and fun events were catered for with Touch Football, Junior Soccer, Little Athletics, and a Tug 0 War. Teams from Canungra, Toowoomba, Glen Innes and Tenterfield all competed. Bands from throughout Queensland arrived to compete in the Queensland Pipe Band Championships which were a major drawcard of the Games.
The massed bands provided a fitting finale to the Games. This year, Laidley plans to build on its success and stage an even better event on October 4. Woodchopping and camel racing are some of the new events proposed to add to the program and enjoyment.
For further information contact Lorraine Walker, telephone (07) 5465 7642.
