General News
5 April, 2023
Rheola Charity Carnival a family affair
Rheola, the tiny town with a population of 50, expects to welcome up to 10,000 visitors through the gates on Easter Monday when the Rheola Charity Carnival returns after a pandemic hiatus forced the delay of its milestone 150th anniversary. Since...
Rheola, the tiny town with a population of 50, expects to welcome up to 10,000 visitors through the gates on Easter Monday when the Rheola Charity Carnival returns after a pandemic hiatus forced the delay of its milestone 150th anniversary.
Since the first carnival in 1871, the event has become renowned as a traditional celebration of the best of country life, with sheep dog trials, a vintage tractor pull, foot races and the always popular woodchopping event.
Leesa Catto is one of a dedicated group of volunteers who have worked hard behind the scenes to ensure the day is one of fun and celebration of all things country.
Leesa grew up on a farm a stone’s throw away from the carnival grounds, and said for many local families, the carnival is an important community event. Leesa’s father, Geoff Catto, was a member of the organising committee for many years and president for one year.
“When we were kids it wasn’t uncommon for us to find Dad at the grounds, fixing up something that needed to be done,” Leesa said.
“Especially in the weeks leading up to the carnival, there was always a fence needing painting or grass to mow.”
Geoff passed away in September last year, but his legacy lives on through his family. Daughter Leesa is a committee member, son Matt is now vicepresident of the committee, and Geoff’s wife Susan will be busy on the day selling raffle tickets.
“Dad was for ever working in the secretary’s box on the day; the shed has become known locally as Geoff's Shed,” Leesa said.
“My sister Jane will collect money for the lunches, my nephew Mitch is running the spinning wheel, my nieces Nicole and Charli will be riding in the pony club and my sister-in-law Karen will be with them.
“Matt is the reigning sheaf tossing champion and my other nephew Jimmy will be helping out.”
As Leesa explains, her family’s involvement is typical of many associated with the carnival.
There’s Ellen Roberts, now in her late-80s, who organises the raffle each year. Her son has made the journey home and has been busy painting.
Current president Peter Mason has taken on the role occupied for years by his late-father Mervyn, and the Mason family organise the pies for the day, following in their mother Barbara’s footsteps.
Most of the catering is provided by local women, with sandwiches, salads and cold meat available in the hall, along with carnival favourites like popcorn, ice cream, pies and fairy floss.
As well as welcoming visitors to the town, the carnival is a chance for former Rheolians to catch up with friends and family.
This year will include a display of historic photos and memorabilia, and a plaque will be unveiled to commemorate 150 years of celebrations.
“A lot of families who have moved away come back to the area for the carnival, it’s a massive reunion of old residents,” Leesa said.
“It’s also a great day to welcome visitors, some who have never been here before, and show them how beautiful the area is.”
All money raised on the day is donated to the Dunolly and Inglewood hospitals, with proceeds from the raffle going towards upkeep of the Rheola Hall.
The Rheola Charity Carnival will take place on Monday, April 10 at the Rheola Public Hall and Recreation Reserve.
Gates open at 7.30 am. Entry is $10 for adults and free for under 15s. The event is cash only with the closest ATM 20 minutes away in Inglewood.