The large crowd enjoyed listening to Lee, but most of all appreciated the opportunity to chat to him during his two and a half hour visit, where he signed autographs and spoke to just about everyone who came to the town oval.

Blyth resident Tanya Bertlesmeier was instrumental in bringing the Spirit of the Bush – The Paddock Tour to the town and said the response had been fantastic.

“I stood back and listened to what people were saying about it and they were really happy,” she said.

“There were farmers communicating and chatting to people they didn’t know and it was a great family day, without anyone having to put their hands in their pockets,” Tanya said.

The event and the food and drinks were free – the sausage sizzle was cooked by Clare and District Apex Club members while Blyth community groups also kept busy serving refreshments. The day was supported by a $6500 Landcare grant through Woolworths.

Visitors came from throughout the region and as far away as Port Augusta to enjoy the afternoon which incorporated entertainment by Clare band Hindsight and country singer Danny Hooper as well as a clown and face painters. Speakers included Clare doctor Steve Holmes who talked about the effects of the drought on community health.

The event attracted media attention from the press and Channel 7 which sent their helicopter along and has helped put Blyth and issues associated with the prolonged drought in rural areas in the spotlight.

“It was a great success and now I’m thinking about what could be organised next year,” Tanya said.

Keep an eye out for Blyth’s next fabulous event when the Kauzzie Boys Drought Buster comes to town on Saturday, August 30.

– More photos, Page 5