Stroud Saddles up for the Wild West

Nobody would have ever assumed that an entire event could be based on a brick, and that so much fun could be had from such a basic object. The little town of Stroud, NSW however had very different ideas for this slab of cement, and have used it as the building blocks for a historic and international event for several decades. It's that time of year again, the time where the iconic Stroud Brick-throwing competition takes place, this year striding into the wild, wild, west for their 56th brick and rolling pin throwing event.

This is an exciting time for all, with the contest dating back to 1961, with contestants actually competing internationally against Canada, England and the United States, with people believing it is responsible for putting this humble little town on the map and making an impressive name for itself. The first event gathered a crowd of 3,000 for a town that only had a population of 450, and morale has never wavered since.  In previous years, more than 2,500 people have turned up for the historic event, making it one of the most well-known and talked about festivals in town.

Traditionally, the male event includes brick throwing, a chance to demonstrate their impressive skills and masculinity while taking part in a historic event for their town. Women on the other hand get to toss specialised rolling pins, with the fun-filled addition of children being able to chuck a rubber chicken provides laughter and entertainment for everyone, and ensures all family members can get involved in the days' festivities. This -chuck a chook' element embodies the events sense of family spirit and light heartedness, which keeps attracting participants and spectators year after year. There is something for everyone at this monumental family based event which has community values embedded in its foundations.

The days' festivities begin with the Street Parade which starts the entire show at 10:30am. The funky floats and marchers will make their way through the main street and concluding at the Stroud Showground.  The town will be alive with a tangible buzz and sense of merriment, with the parade starting the events high energy ambience, even throwing lollies and treats for the kids. 

Following this, the show will officially open at 11.30am, where the real fun will begin, with an endless list of family activities and amusements on offer.