Uralla will ring to the clang and clash of sword against shield, of battle and affray, this Saturday as knights - in shining armour, natch - compete in the lists.
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The annual Thunderbolts Festival is Uralla's community event. This year, local mediaeval combat group, the New England Renegades, will hold what is billed as the largest historical mediaeval battle in the Southern Hemisphere.
Eighty warriors - from China, New Zealand, and Australia - will fight (not to the death, fortunately!) in a tourney behind the Bowling Club in the evening. There will be buhurt (team) events and duels.
The annual Thunderbolts Festival will, in fact, be a knight to remember.
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The festival is a terrific day out for families, organiser Bev Stubblefield said.
"People can come into the town, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, get something to eat, and check out the shops in town."
The day starts with the Fleet Warbirds Street Parade at 10.30am, before Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall will officially open the event.
At the Alma Park markets, visitors can watch Paws Up Dog High Jump demonstrate dog training, or buy food. Kids can have their photos taken with the Fairy Lady; learn to juggle or roller bowler at the Circus Confabularium; dress up and have their photos taken at the Papermoon Photo Booth; or enjoy the jumping castle, rock climbing wall, giant slide, or ponies.
In the afternoon, local motorcyclists the Oxley Riders will ride their Bail Up Poker Run, finishing at the Top Pub.
The Thunderbolt Cup - the mediaeval battle - starts at 5pm, at the rear of the Bowlo. Spectators can buy food from a barbecue; no word on haunches of venison, roast peacocks, or cockentrices.
The day finishes at 8.30pm with Holy Smoke Fireworks, also behind the Bowlo.
Thunderbolts Festival is supported by Uralla Shire Council and the Rotary Club. The day is also local community groups' biggest fundraiser.
"It's the opportunity for those local organizations to raise funds for their cause, and we try our best to to contain most of the money in the local economy to give it a boost," Ms Stubblefield said.
"We don't have any private coffee people come in. We encourage people to go up the street to the cafes, support local business, and keep the money in town."
A two-dollar wristband gives visitors access to the festival.
For more information, visit http://www.thunderboltsfestival.com.au/.