Photograph caption: Steph Cooke was on hand to help officially open this year's National Cherry Festival alongside (from left), Hilltops Deputy Mayor Alison Foreman, Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack, Hilltops Mayor Marg Roles, Young High School student Bella Charles, and reigning Cherry Queen Brianna Long.
Nationals Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has applauded all those involved in the 2023 National Cherry Festival in Young, praising their dedication and hard work in making the event a resounding success.
Ms Cooke commended the meticulous planning of the organisers, volunteers, and sponsors, who all contributed to the festival's success.
"This year's event was hands-down one of the greatest National Cherry Festivals Young has ever seen," Ms Cooke said.
"I had a wonderful weekend experiencing the sights and sounds of the festival. Young came alive and was such a hive of activity; I spoke to so many people who all commented on the vibrancy of the town, and the wonderful activities and attractions on offer," she said.
Ms Cooke said the festival's diverse array of activities, from cherry picking, to live musical entertainment, wood-chopping, carnival rides, pie-eating competitions, and live poetry performances, made it a memorable experience for all.
"Congratulations to the organisers for once again putting together an amazing event, and to all those who took part - from the musicians to the float organisers, to those who marched in the parade, the market stall-holders, the council staff, the list goes on - it was a big effort, and one that well and truly paid off," Ms Cooke said.
"A big congratulations also to the winners of the various festival prizes, including Young High School for 'best overall' in this year's parade, and Young Public School for 'best cherry-themed float'," she said.
Ms Cooke also highlighted the festival's role in promoting local businesses, fostering tourism, and highlighting Young as a vibrant regional hub.
"It's events like this that contribute significantly to the prosperity and growth of our region. It's become such a popular drawcard for visitors on the region's calendar, and it's all thanks to the unwavering commitment of organisers and participants," Ms Cooke said.
