The inaugural Erica Country Expo on Saturday was a sell-out event.

The community-led event saw the Erica Recreation Reserve transformed into a COVID-safe country festival with family friendly entertainment, carnival rides, live music and stalls on every corner for patrons to enjoy. 

Locals and visitors from across the state were treated to a wood chop challenge, with world champion Laurence O'Toole stealing the show and creating an electric atmosphere in the heart of Erica. 

Erica resident Michael Briggs was a fan of the wood chop challenge.  “It was great to bring the wood chop back to Erica, it was a big success and the community thoroughly enjoyed watching the champion and King of the Mountain in action” he said.   

The expo provided a welcomed vital boost for the local businesses and tourism operators who have faced many disruptions over the past few years.  

With the tourism industry in the shire’s eastern region still battling the impacts of bushfires, storm events and the ongoing pandemic, the highlighted the strength and resilience of the local community and its commitment towards economic recovery.  

Committee member and organiser Bec Closter said she was overwhelmed with the huge turnout to the small country town for a community driven event.

“The day was a huge success especially in light of COVID and being a capped ticketed event. The support received was outstanding and the wood chopping blew me away,” she said.  

Baw Baw Shire Council partnered with a local community planning committee and residents from Erica and surrounds to deliver the Expo.  

All funds raised from ticket sales will go towards recovery and support initiatives for the local community. 

Mayor Michael Leaney said it was incredible to see so many visitors and locals show up in numbers to support the expo.

“This community led event has shown just how dedicated and focused our small communities are to work hard to ensure their ongoing viability and recovery from the impacts of disasters. 

“Thank you to all the volunteers and staff who have been involved in the delivery of this amazing event for our region,” he said.