Helensburgh Lions celebrated the town’s 35th County Fair last Saturday, hosting a fun day of stalls, rides and the famous Lions BBQ at Charles Harper Park.

“It's all about the community coming together,” said Rod Peppernell, president of Helensburgh Lions Club.

Guided by their motto, ‘We Serve’, the Lions not only delivered a fun fair but a charitable showcase of local clubs and essential services for residents to browse.

“The thing about it is that they get to see the other service providers like the RFS, the ambulance, the Men's Shed and all the other community groups,” Rod said.

Fran Peppernell, publicity officer for Helensburgh Lions, said the turnout was “fantastic".

“The amount of people that have turned up is brilliant,” she said.

The Lions will use funds raised at the annual event to support other projects, such as neonatal cots for Wollongong Hospital and tools for children with disabilities. A small portion will go to supporting disaster relief for bushfires, floods and other emergencies.

Wollongong City Council had a stall, so people could chat directly to staff about plans for Helensburgh’s new library and community centre, which is set to be built next door to the current library on Walker Street.

“People don't see the visibility of what the council is about and does,” Rod said. “But they come and see us to support us a lot.”

The Rural Fire Service (RFS) drove their fire truck to the park, giving kids a chance to climb aboard and meet their local heroes. Country Companion Animal Rescue brought dogs in need of a forever home, raising awareness of the need for adoption and charming fairgoers.

“We rescue dogs, cats and other animals from outback pounds where they don't get much of a chance to find a home,” said the organisation’s founder Julie-ann Ehrlich, who has run Helenburgh's animal rescue centre for the past 20 years.

“We get them desexed, vaccinated, microchips, lifetime registration and we find a good life for them.”

Children enjoyed carnival rides and performances by Helensburgh Public School Choir, Zumba Dance Demonstration, Chimera, ADA Dance Group, and George Mann. The fair was also a chance for families and friends to catch up.

“A great thing is that they get to meet their neighbours,” Rod said.

“A lot of people don't know who their neighbours are, but it's a good chance to have a chat and see who their kids go to school with.”

“That's what it is about – bringing the community together to socialise.”

Want to join the club? Email info.helensburghlions@gmail.com