It all began with an Ugly Man competition! That’s right, in 1950, the Ugly Man Competition raised $1,221 towards the building of ‘proper learn-to-swim facilities’ in Mullumbimby.
According to Mullumbimby Happenings, by Reg Byrnes, many ‘local male identities raised funds on the basis of three pence (2 cents) per vote.’
From there, it was a range of fundraising events and carnivals that eventually became the Chincogan Fiesta, including Matron of the Mountain, Queen competitions and Maid of the Mountain.
First run in 1960
The first Chinny Charge was run in 1960, and the second race was run in 1967, which was won by Mullumbimby local Colin Creighton.
Once the Mullumbimby Memorial Baths were opened in 1967, the first Chincogan Fiesta followed in 1968.
The fiesta ran annually, raising funds for all sorts of community needs, from the provision of a car for the community nurse in 1972, to supporting local preschools and Coolamon Villa Home for the Aged.
The race and fiesta ceased in 2002, but the Chinny Charge race was resurrected by the Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce in 2017.
Apart from the two years when it was cancelled owing to covid, it has been running each year as a walk and race up Chincogan Mountain.
This year, the Chinny Charge will take place on Saturday, September 16, and it is the one day of the year that the access up the mountain is open to the public. It is a great opportunity to either test your endurance in the run, or just enjoy a lovely afternoon walk with friends.
There is the open adult race, as well as the children’s race, from Mullumbimby to the bottom of the mountain and back with multiple prizes on offer.
All participants are asked not to take single use plastics onto the mountain. No dogs allowed.
There are 500 spaces for runners and walkers on the day. All participants must be 12 years or older. To book a place, visit www.eventwizards.com.au.
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