The iconic bush bash which put Wattle Flat on the map was cancelled in 2008 because of equine influenza outbreak which brought all horse activities in the state to a stand still.

Committee member Ann Bennett said she was delighted the full day of fun was going ahead again.

“After missing out on it last year, we are pleased to have it up and going again, and it looks so good out here now with everything so green from the rain,” she said.

“Everything is looking to be coming together for the day which is exciting too.”

Large crowds are once again expected to return to the track after the 2008 event was cancelled due to EI. As many competitors trek from Hawkesbury or Mudgee, they were not 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. But it’s not just the horses which attract the large crowd.

“It’s just a fantastic family day,” Ms Bennett said. “The day’s events start early and basically there’s some happening all day.”

The 26th Bronze Thong Race Meeting and Gymkhana will start at 8am at 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, woodchop and chainsaw events, food and a bar, as well as market stalls. The Bronze Thong Princess and King of the Track titles for 2009 will also be up for grabs.

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