MORE than 70 community groups from all corners of the Hastings and Camden Haven will gather at Wauchope Showground on Saturday October 22 to celebrate the Hastings Co-op’s centenary.
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In a display of community spirit the region is renowned for, local groups, schools and clubs will embrace the opportunity to showcase 100 years of history and achievement.
Hastings Co-op’s chief executive officer Allan Gordon said the 100 year community party on Saturday is the highlight of centenary celebrations, all of which are designed to thank the Co-op’s valued staff, shareholders, suppliers and customers for their support.
“The community party is all about good, old fashioned family,” Mr Gordon said.
“As one of the longest-serving independent co-ops in Australia, we were originally established by a group of local dairy farmers who saw the benefits of joining forces, so it’s fitting that we mark 100 years in this way.”
In addition to displays by local clubs and community groups, the community day program includes the monthly Wauchope Farmers Markets, annual Rotary Book Sale, a petting farm, lawn mower racing, kids rides and much more.
Festivities will kick off at 8am and include an official opening by Member for Oxley Melinda Pavey and Member for Lyne David Gillespie at 10am, a community tug-o-war challenge from 12pm and music and dance performances right through to 5pm.
People wanting to register their tug-o-war team of 10 can email timw@hastingscoop.com.au or just arrive on the day.
“We have been overwhelmed by the number of groups coming and warmly welcome everyone to come along, as this is our way of saying thank you,” Mr Gordon said.
“Over the past 100 years we've grown from strength to strength, both in size and diversity, however, we've never lost sight of the importance of the local community.
“We have done a lot over 100 years and with the community’s continued support and loyalty, our children, grand-children and their children, will be celebrating our sesquicentennial and bi-centennial anniversaries in no time at all.”
A spectacular social event tonight (Friday) will bring together business people from across the Hastings for a 100 year celebratory dinner.
Hastings Co-op began as a dairy factory in 1916 and has evolved into a diverse retailer which employs more than 270 people across six very distinct business divisions.