Started in 1999, the then Deniliquin Council put an ad in the Pastoral Times seeking interested people to start a new town event.
The famous, 20 year plus Easter event had just folded.
The first meeting had an attendance of 36 people, and ideas went to and fro.
“There were not as many at meeting number two, but the ideas came out - an air show, hot air balloons, and a big ute weekend, as the local ute group were showing utes at local shows.
The three ideas were discussed and out of it came Play on the Plains, and the first Deni Ute Muster in 1999.
It was not held on the present site, with years one and two off Conargo Rd.
It all started with a bang with lots of utes, great entertainment and lots of fun.
A new and bigger site was found, the hard work then began.
Bigger ideas, and a bigger site off one of our travelling stock reserves.
Look at how it has grown.
Our own little town can successfully cater to and look after in excess of 20,000 people.
Last weekend was special in every way.
Travellers from all parts of Australia all had a great time.
The professional way it has all played out is nothing but spectacular.
To the CEO, the chairman, board members, staff and volunteers - my congratulations.
And prior to the event, Wednesday’s Spirit of the Muster event was a dream come true.
Our early idea was to have entertainment in the town, but the sheer number of utes rules that out. And we always needed our police on board.
So that’s why it became Play on the Plains.
All those early committee members who put in the hard yards, we would be very proud.
Yours etc.
Linday Renwick
Original committee member
Deniliquin
9°C