Town gowns for big day

By Melissa Meehan
KOOWEERUP is a thriving community, and thanks to their township committee the town will continue to progress as it grows.
President Frank Crameri said the opening ceremony for the refurbished clock towers last month went very well despite the wet, cold, and inclement weather.
Mr Crameri said the work done on the panels was excellent, adding that the enamelled surfaces will prolong their life. He said other groups in the town should put their own history on to one of the blank panels.
He saidthe CFA, the RSL or the town sports groups, i.e. cricket, netball and football clubs, would be ideal additions to the site.
Mr Crameri said the construction of the walking track proposed for Cochrane Park had been started, adding that it was the first phase of the park’s makeover.
Also a tank has been installed for the purpose of providing flush water for the toilets, and some water spouting around the community hall’s roof eaves is being renewed.
At last week’s township committee meeting, it was announced that the Kooweerup CFA would host a major display and competition over the Australia Day (Wednesday) holiday and on into the weekend.
About 25 to 30 brigades will be taking part in the celebration of 80 years of history of the CFA Eastern District.
There will be several spectacular events commencing at the football oval with a disciplined march to Cochrane Park; this is the where the competition in earnest will take place.
On the Saturday evening, there are plans for a torchlight march around the town.
On competition days, 28 and 29 January, the brigade expects at least 1000 people in the town, making it a super showcase, not only for the town but also for Cardinia Shire.
Brigades will be coming to Kooweerup from Orbost, Yarrum, and all over South Victoria. The Kooweerup CFA has asked the Police Band and the Cardinia Civic Concert Band to provide the music, and there will be entertainment for children.
The competitors will need a place to stay, as also will the visiting spectators and this will bring good business to the local motels, shops, pubs, and caravan parks, boosting the local economy.