Mrs PHILLIPS (Gilmore) (09:46): On the June long weekend I was thrilled to join in the festivities of the Viking Festival at Sussex Inlet.

It was a huge event, with thousands of people turning out to enjoy all the fun activities that the Viking Festival brings. The festival is run by the Sussex Inlet and Districts Chamber of Commerce, their dedicated organising committee and their team of volunteers. It's supported by local organisations, businesses and sponsors. The Viking Festival celebrates the Scandinavian heritage of Sussex Inlet and the settlement of the area by Jacob Elmoos and his family from Denmark. 

Set on the banks of the waterways of Sussex Inlet, we were part of a boat flotilla with the Sussex Inlet River Dragons and the Sussex Inlet Marine Rescue, alighting at the new jetty, where we were met by the Steampunk Vagabonds. An opening ceremony, which included an acknowledgement of country by Aunty Denise Bradshaw, and an inspiring dance performance by Vincentia High School's Dhawaari Dancers. Then there are the participants: the stallholders, like Sussex Inlet Public School, community groups, food stalls, entertainers and the Vikings themselves.

There was a Viking village where Vikings taught us about Viking life. There were so many people getting in the Viking groove, even Havoc the Irish wolfhound and the other doggos were getting into the Viking spirit.

There were music and Viking festivities into the night. The Sussex Inlet Vikings Festival helps bring people to Sussex Inlet. It's great for community and business, and for more people finding out about this great village.