Star Wars Day celebrated across NSW

The Southern Cross Garrison participated in a range of events across NSW this May the Fourth.

KOFM Radio, Newcastle

With a 7am on-air start, the Hunter Hornets arrived early at KOFM, located on the foreshore of the Hunter River in Newcastle. Breakfast hosts Tanya and Steve interviewed Squad Leader, Glen Fredericks, flanked by three Stormtroopers, a Republic Commando, a lone Jawa, and a mischievous Ewok. They discussed the significance of May the 4th, otherwise known as Star Wars Day, and asked several questions about the various costumes. Steve fondly recounted his May 4 adventure at the John Hunter Hospital last year, when he dressed as Darth Vader.

Photo credit: Glen Fredericks

Our Kids Day Out, Ballina NSW

Our Kids day out is a family friendly fun day out for children in the Northern NSW region, focussing on those that have been in children's ward or Special Care Nursery throughout the years. The day consisted of pony rides, games, rides, magic shows, reptile shows, Paddington bear, SES, Police and Fire Brigade.

Photo credit: Michael McBride

Pictures and Popcorn, Goulburn

What better way to spend Star Wars Day than to watch one of the saga films on the big screen! Star Wars: The Force Awakens was shown at the family-friendly Pictures and Popcorn at the Veolia Arena in Goulburn. The event also hosted a Kids Zone, demonstrations from Sons of Obi-Wan Saber Academy, Laser Tag, face painting and a jumping castle.

Photo credit: Jason Feldner

Charlestown Square, Charlestown

The troop arrived at the shopping centre, just outside of Newcastle, mid-morning and were greeted by Star Wars fans and shoppers alike. The characters proceeded to spread the joy of Star Wars day throughout the centre, much to the delight of customers and staff.

Photo credit: Paul Hempsall

Black Dog Institute, Randwick

Fresh from visiting the nearby Children's Hospital, troopers visited the Southern Cross Garrison's chosen charity partner, Black Dog Institute, not just to thank them for their tireless efforts in the research, prevention, and treatment of mental illness, but to also share the fun of May the 4th.

Photo credit: Genevieve Lyons

Crumpler Store, Sydney

Late afternoon saw the arrival of several First Order Stormtroopers, Chewbacca, an original trilogy Stormtrooper, Stormtrooper Commander, and a Rebel Pilot to the busy Crumpler store located at The Galeries, Sydney to help with the product launch of a series of Star Wars themed bags. The Star Wars characters created quite a stir, with countless photos taken and the odd selfie or two.

Photo credit: Garrison CO