HERITAGE Weekend gets underway this Friday, April 25 with three days of events celebrating and reflecting the rich history of Nyah and Nyah West.
The weekend will blend Anzac commemorations, local sport, historical displays, live entertainment, and community connection.
Long-time Nyah West resident Ian Brauer said it’s more than just looking back.
“There’s so much history here; people don’t realise how much has happened in these little places,” he said.
“The weekend’s about honouring that, and giving locals and visitors a chance to come together and remember.”
The program begins with an Anzac Day Dawn Service at 6am on Friday at the Nyah Memorial, offering residents a chance to pay tribute to the fallen.
Attendees are being asked to arrive at 5.40am.
This will be followed by a tour of the Nyah District Cemetery and will offer insights into the area’s history.
From midday local footy takes over as Nyah Nyah West United faces off against Woorinen at the Nyah Recreation Reserve.
The senior game will be a night match kicking off at 5.45pm.
Alongside the game there will be a traditional Anzac service, a car raffle, followed by a chance to reconnect at the Grand Hotel’s Meet and Mingle.
Mr Brauer said the celebrations continue on Saturday with a bus tour at 10am.
“We’ve got a tour of the district leaving from the park in the morning, and a few local spots will be opening their doors too,” he said.
“The primary school, the fire brigade, and even the old bowling club will all be welcoming visitors throughout the day.”
There will also be a Steam Oil and Vintage Car Display at the Nyah West Park alongside market stalls and a range of memorabilia exhibits.
Mr Brauer said “the highlight of the evening is the Heritage Weekend Ball” at the Nyah Memorial Hall and “will bring people together the old-fashioned way.”
The night will feature live music from the Drowning Sorrows and guests are encouraged to BYO alcohol and a plate to share.
Entry is just $5 per person or $20 per family.
Sunday’s events begin with an Ecumenical Church Service at 9.30am in AN Lewis Park.
Attendees are asked to bring their own chair.
The weekend wraps up with a Family Picnic at the Nyah Recreation Reserve from 11am to 3pm featuring a live performance by Scoogs, a BBQ and bar, traditional games, and plenty of space to relax on your picnic blanket.
The weekend is set to be a warm and lively tribute to Nyah and Nyah West’s roots.
“Everyone’s welcome,” Mr Brauer said.
“Come for the stories, stay for the people.”
Full Schedule
Friday, April 25
6am – Anzac Dawn Service at Nyah Memorial
10am – Nyah District Cemetery Tour ($5 fee)
From 12pm – Local footy: Nyah Nyah West United vs Woorinen at Nyah Recreation Reserve, Anzacf Service, Car Raffle Major Draw
Evening – Meet and Mingle at Grand Hotel.
Saturday, April 26
9am – 4pm – Heritage Display at Nyah West Park Area, Memorabilia, Vintage cars, steam & oil machinery, Market and food stalls
10am – Bus tour of district (leaves from Nyah West Park)
10am – 1pm – Nyah District Primary School open
12pm – 3pm – Nyah Fire Brigade and Nyah Bowling Club open
From 7pm till late – Heritage Weekend Ball at Nyah Memorial Hall
Sunday, April 27 – Community & Family Day
9.30am – Ecumenical Church Service at AN Lewis Park (overlooking Murray River)
Please bring your own chair
11am – 3pm – Family Picnic at Nyah Recreation Reserve
