Bingara has convincingly taken out the Doug Barrett RSL Memorial Shield. The inter-town carnival against Warialda was held here last Friday evening. It has been a long time between victories, but this time there was even more reason for swimmers to put up their best effort. “This year we were determined to win it, and I really think this time a lot of people were swimming for Lee (Baldock),” Bingara Swimming Club president Bez Dixon said. Lee, the daughter of Doug Barrett passed away in January.
The competition was first held in 1980. Of its history, Bingara has only been able to claim bragging rights five times. This time Bingara came home strong though, winning with 548 points to Warialda’s 386.
There were events for every stroke and almost every age.
Children and supporters offered cheers of encouragement from the sidelines which made for a great atmosphere all round, as well as the barbecue and caramel tarts.
“It was an awesome night, and there was a great level of effort and involvement. Even people who are not on the committee played a huge role,” Bez said. “We would not have been able to do as well without the expertise of our coach Tim Cox. Nedine Young did a fantastic job announcing all the events and Ann Lewis organised the races very well. It all went very smoothly.
“A huge thank you and well done to all infants, primary and high school participants, parents and other helpers and of course to Warialda for making the trip.”
Due to a variety of factors including weather and clashing timetables and commitments, the Doug Barrett RSL Memorial Shield has not been held for five years.
“There is a lot that goes into organising something like this so thank you everyone.
Here’s hoping we can win it again next year!”
See fantastic photos of the proud participants on page 4 of this week’s Bingara Advocate
