“I was thrilled to not only see such a wonderful turn out from the local community but to see guests come from further afield to enjoy this evening with us,” Federation Council Mayor Pat Bourke said reflecting on the success of last week’s Flame N’ Feast event at the Urana Aquatic Centre.
The event, held on February 3, drew large crowds from Urana and beyond, marking a vibrant celebration of community, barbecue, and shared experiences.
The festivities began with a touching Welcome to Country and a didgeridoo performance by Wiradjuri elder, Michael Lyons. Attendees of all ages enjoyed a variety of free attractions, including amusement rides for children, face painting, and a captivating cooking demonstration by celebrity BBQ pitmaster Grant Neal.
The assortment of food trucks offered a feast for the senses including a demonstration with the preparation of local lamb cut with expert skill.
The day culminated in the presentation of the Flame N’ Feast ‘Dish of The Day’ award to Cody and Mandy from Redhead & Chef for their innovative Beef Brisket & Stacked Fragrant Rice.
The evening also celebrated the culinary talents of the community with awards for Best BBQ Sauce, Best Sauce, Best Condiment, and Best Sweet Treat, showcasing the diverse and rich food culture of the area.
Live performances from local musicians Toby Mobbs, Dylan Raath, and Marcus Osborne, alongside the Mulwala Waterski Club, added energy to the night.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Urana Aquatic Centre foreshore, the event provided a platform for local culinary talents.
“It has been a tough couple of years for us here in Urana and the Federation Council, so events like Flame N’ Feast are crucial in reminding us of the strength and support we have in each other,” Mayor Bourke said.
Flame N’ Feast was supported by the Waterfront Pavilion, Urana Bowling Club, Corowa Lions Club, and cookbook author Nikalene Riddle.