The sun shone brightly over Molyulluah on Easter Monday as locals, visitors and generations of families gathered for the much-loved Molyulluah Easter Sports 2025.
An event spokesperson said that from the opening foot races to the final egg throw, the day was packed with excitement.
“Children laughed as they crashed the rat, balanced eggs between throws and flung gumboots across the sports ground in the crowd-favourite gumboot toss,” the spokesperson said.
“The heaviest pumpkin competition was a talking point, with one local farmer’s entry tipping the scales at a whopping 140kg, with Bella Walsh guessing the exact weight.”
A new crowd favourite was born, with the ferret races being well embraced.
The vintage tractors and trucks pumped away in the background, stirring memories of when these machines worked the land and delivered goods.
“The woodchop events, sponsored by Extons and Somerset Pastoral, returned with a thunderous echo of axes and applause,” the spokesperson said.
“On the oval, horses put on a stunning show of skill and style, with the kids’ fancy dress horse parade stealing hearts and drawing the cameras of proud parents and grandparents.”
But it wasn’t just the activities that created a sense of magic — it was the feeling of nostalgia that swept through the crowd.
Long-time locals reminisced about their own races decades earlier, as children now ran the same track.
Old-time favourite foods were served by volunteers, and the market stalls displayed various goods for those needing a little retail therapy.
The kids’ zone was alive with free activities for children and the young at heart.
The Midland Freight horse and cart ride clip-clipped along the road, while the train rattled through the bush.
The jumping castle, face painting, animal nursery and shearing display delighted all.
“None of this would be possible without the generosity of our sponsors,” the spokesperson said.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Midland Freight, Extons, Somerset Pastoral, Moly Moo, Living Here, The Payne Family and Ryan & McNulty.
“And the many families and individuals who donated goods, time and energy. Your support keeps this tradition alive and thriving.”
In the evening, a time capsule buried in the year 2000 was opened, revealing letters from locals of the day, photos of the old sports ground and memorabilia from past events.
The Ensign’s Issie Hill popped along and took these photos.