Peter Gambrill and Mia Finch claim top honours at Stroud Brick and Rolling Pin Throwing Competition

PETER Gambrill and Mia Finch claimed the Men’s Open and Women’s Open titles as hundreds of competitors and spectators gathered for the annual Stroud Brick and Rolling Pin Throwing Competition during the town’s bicentenary celebrations.

The pair emerged as the day’s top throwers at the Stroud Showground, where one of regional Australia’s most distinctive sporting traditions returned for another year.

Event spokesperson Christine Stani said the event continued to celebrate the town’s history while bringing the community together.

“One of regional Australia’s most unique and beloved events returned this July as the Stroud Showground came alive for the Stroud Brick and Rolling Pin Throwing Competition – a celebration of heritage, community spirit and quirky tradition in the heart of Stroud’s 200th anniversary year,” Ms Stani said.

“This year’s celebrations were especially significant as they formed part of Stroud’s 200th anniversary, with the theme ‘Looking Back. Moving Forward.'”

The day began with the annual Street Parade through the town centre, featuring colourful floats, vintage vehicles, marching bands, school groups and community organisations.

The spokesperson said the competition had remained a treasured tradition for decades.

“Dating back to the 1960s, this quirky competition connects Stroud communities across the globe and remains a proud and enduring local tradition,” said Ms Stani.

Away from the throwing arena, families enjoyed putt putt golf, cage soccer, dartball, the Sweet Valley Petting Zoo, free face painting, balloon art, the Children’s Art Awards, quilting displays, market stalls and the Show and Shine vehicle display.

Live performances by No Control, the Waratah Brass Band and the Newcastle RSL Pipe Band rounded out the festivities as Stroud celebrated both its newest champions and its 200-year history.

By Sis HIGGINS