The last Sunday in July / first Sunday in August has traditionally been the home of the annual Positive Rugby Foundation NSWJRU City vs Country Carnival. But with COVID-19 impacting the 2020 and 2021 event it had been a very long 3 years between drinks.

This meant that Bathurst Bulldogs Rugby and their President Phil Newton, alongside the Bathurst Regional Council - had 3 years to prepare for the pinnacle event of the club rugby Rep calendar. And what a fine job they did too.

We arrived at Ann Ashwood Oval very early on a chilly Sunday morning, with the temperature gauge showing a -3 degrees. The venue is a stunning example of everything that is good about bush rugby - two magnificent ovals with a clubhouse that the city folk can only dream about.

The games across the day were simply brilliant as well - all live-streamed on NSW Rugby TV. The results were all very tight with Sydney taking the first few games before NSW Country stormed home to claim the last three contests in spectacular fashion.

Thanks to all the people involved in making it such a special day - Bathurst Mayor Richard Taylor, Daily Telegraph's Amanda Lulham, IRAA's Andrew Fraser and Active Farmers Justin Sampson. Also need to mention Matt Waterford from NSW Country whom made sure the carnival had everything sorted in the lead up to the event.

Bathurst is a fantastic venue and we'd love to come back.

BG