The iconic bush bash which put Wattle Flat on the map was cancelled at the beginning of this year because of last year’s equine influenza outbreak.

But it will be back bigger and better than ever next month.

Committee member Ann Bennett said she had been very disappointed having to cancel the 2008 event, but was looking forward to getting back into business next month.

“There were people last year who were telling us they had no chance in hell of making it because of the EI,” Ms Bennett said.

Many competitors for the horse races trek from Hawkesbury or Mudgee but were not legally allowed to move horses through those areas last January.

Faced with the prospect of delaying the inevitable, organisers decided it was fairer to cancel the Thong earlier rather than at the last minute, she said.

The 26th Bronze Thong Race Meeting and Gymkhana will start at 8am at the Wattle Flat Racecourse on Sunday, January 11.

There will be horse sporting events and races, a gymkhana, thong tossing, junior foot races, Wattle Flat Whirlwind, pedigree Sheep Dog trials, kids’ face painting, wood chop and chainsaw events, food and a bar as well as market stalls.

The prestigious Bronze Thong Princess and King of the Track titles for 2009 will also be up for grabs.

“It’s a very full on fun type of day,” Ms Bennett said. “We’re hoping it will be bigger and better than ever.”

Admittance is adults $6, pensioners and students $3 and kids under 12 free. Camping is available on the grounds.