By Michael Doran
The Upper Yarra Valley Historical Society is reeling from the sudden death of its president , Tom O’Meara. With this years showcase event, Crank Up, only days away, the team behind it are working feverishly to plug the huge gap that Tom’s passing has left.
The volunteers organising the event are all determined to make this years Crank Up a success and said that it would be dedicated to the memory of Tom O’Meara, a devoted member and friend for more than 10 years.
The group spoke as one in saying that the best way to honour Tom’s memory and devotion was to make this Crank Up the biggest one ever and for as many locals as possible to attend the event Tom was very passionate about.
Crank Up is on the weekend of 6-7 April and this year marks its forty-third running, which last year drew more than 2,200 people. All of the favourite attractions are back with a balance between the historical side and plenty of things to keep the kids involved, like the animal petting farm.
The ever popular exhibition by the Yarra Valley Preservation Society running vintage engines and machinery of all types, big and small, will provide all the noise, banging and whirring that typifies every Crank Up.
The steam engines will be chugging away along with a team of draught horses pulling sleds around and many other working demonstrations, including blacksmiths, chainsaw sculpture and old mechanical saws.
Community involvement is a big part of Crank Up and groups such as the CFA, Red Cross and U3A will have stalls over the weekend as well as many arts and crafts activities.
There will be plenty of food and drinks from the barbeque run by society members and the monster raffle and the under 15s naming competition.
Crank Up is the major fundraising activity for the historical society and any enquiries for stalls can be made to 5967 2167 or email uyvhs.info@gmail.com
