Unlike the cloying thundering days which have curtailed events past – today was just summer hot, with a gentle breeze to keep things late January pleasant.

Food van alley was a reflection of the nation we have grown to be – alongside the Nambucca Heads Lions Aussie snagfest barbie there were Mexican, German, Mauritian, Greek and sushi offerings. Literally the world on a plate on the banks of the Nambucca River. There were even Vietnamese-style coffees … no, I’m not sure what they are either.

The gourmet offerings set the scene – and were just the pick-me-up for the early starters who set off on the fun walk, jog or run from the park to the Nambucca Plaza and back.

Back at party central, by 9am the entertainment swang into gear. A small but spirited group from the Holiday Coast Boot Scooters did their thang, and they were soon followed on the big stage by the Nambucca Valley Country Music Club. And, of course, there were ukes.

As well as a small battery of stalls selling everything from plants, woodwork, books and jewellery – the emergency services were on hand.

Particularly popular were the ‘townies’ – Nambucca Heads Fire and Rescue – who backed one of their pumpers down to the river and did some drafting while the crowd got a handle on the power of their hose lines.

Out on the water, Marine Rescue Nambucca had their skis milling about and providing ‘back-up’ should anything go awry in the raft race.

All craft survived and finished, and the only hint of skullduggery was a small cat, which had an outboard motor concealed by palm fronds on the back. But the skipper kept the rip cord at bay in the event open to passive non-powered vessels.

Back on land the punters were getting itchy for the start of the mud crab races – and conversation turned to how you might judge a willing crustacean.

Enjoy the gallery.

Our Rhonda Hoban in national honours’ list

Nambucca’s very special Australia Day ambassador