mmg.com.au

Preparations are in full motion as locals gear up to commemorate the 1879 raid on Jerilderie by Ned Kelly and his gang during the Ned Kelly Jerilderie Letter Event, which will be held this Saturday.

The event acknowledges Jerilderie’s role in the unfolding of the Kelly legend, with the main focus surrounding Ned Kelly’s manifesto, the document he unsuccessfully attempted to have published at the town printery during the raid.

Kelly’s manifesto, now referred to as ‘The Jerilderie Letter’ is one of only two surviving original documents by the infamous bushranger and contains his accounts of events — including the Stringybark Creek murders.

Kelly’s manifesto is now considered an important historical document and is housed in the State Library of Victoria. Several pages of the original letter will be on display during the Letter Event.

The day includes plenty to see and do including: An historical enactment; a newly written play which will have its premier at the Letter Event; readings of the entire Jerilderie Letter by poet, Alex Allitt; and the Victoria Police Museum’s Ambush exhibition in the RSL Hall which contains genuine Kelly artifacts.

The printery where Ned tried to get his letter printed will be officially opened after extensive reconstruction and renovation and will house the Doing the Bolt Exhibition.

There will also be a Street Parade which will include vehicles taking part in the tractor trek and the show and shine, as well as numerous groups, organisations and business of the Jerilderie community.

Evening entertainment in Luke Park will be provided by Irish duo, Eireraid.

Markets in Luke Park, CWA Devonshire Teas and craft displays in The Willows and children’s heritage games in Luke Park will be a feature of the day.

A cemetery tour will also be held, guided by Jerilderie Shire councillor Laurie Henery.

A great family day out. For more information please contact Jerilderie Shire on (03) 5886 1200 or visit www.jerilderieletterevent.com.au