A celebration of the most romantic transport in history, Timbertown’s largest event is set to attract 4000 people with its wheels and whistles, offering a steam-filled weekend of activities for the family.

Timbertown’s Festival includes a Grand Parade at 12noon daily, magic shows, music, street performers, steam train rides, clydesdale drawn carriage rides and whip cracking lessons. The little ones will also love the miniature railway rides, damper making and story telling to find Trev the Tractor.

Hosted by the Timbertown Steam and Oil Engine Club, this group of enthusiasts will roll out their prized collection of engines, crawlers, vintage trucks, tractors and cars, many more than 100 years old.

A hands-on education program includes ‘sawmill tours’, ‘butter making’ demonstrations and ‘steam engine’ talks from qualified operators. A special sheep shearing show will use old equipment, notably a chaffcutter weighing two tonnes and once operated by four men.

The festival will run from 9.30am to 4.30pm on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 July 2008, with demonstrations held at various times.

For more information, contact Timbertown on (02) 6586 1940 or go to www.timbertown.com.au Cost is $5 for adults, $3 for children and $12 for a family of four.

Wauchope once handled more timber than any other Australian town with its blackbutt forests, and steam trains were central to the transport system.

To receive more ideas on family fun these school holidays in Greater Port Macquarie contact the Visitor Information Centre for a Free Holiday Planner and CD on 1300 303 155 or book on-line at www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au