Tasmania’s north was buffeted by strong winds and lashings of rain on 19 October, but it all eased to a bright and sunny day which attracted 7000 people to Longford’s 157th annual show… and the Navy Community Engagement Program team from Navy Headquarters Tasmania was there to make the most of the large crowd.
Show President, Mr Bill Williams was quoted in the Sunday Examiner (20 October 2013) as saying the committee had a few anxious moments during last week but on Saturday they were ‘truly blessed’.
“It’s easily one of the better years we’ve had – it was absolutely chockers all day long,” Mr Williams said.
A steady stream of show-goers showed a genuine interest in the Navy’s display with many commenting on how they had enjoyed the televised IFR and the spectacular fireworks display.
Several ex-Navy personnel made themselves known, commenting on how proud they were to have served and to have been part of the 100 years of service that the Navy is celebrating.
By mid-afternoon, the winds had picked up again, buffeting all the displays and attractions and thinning the crowds out. However, the day was an extremely worthwhile engagement for the NCEP team, who found the community reception warm and recieved lots of comments about how much the International Fleet Review had impressed everyone.
[mappress] Press Release, October 30, 2013; Image: Australian Navy