I am forever on the lookout for people who appreciate Fyansford, who recognise what it has to offer and who then, in turn, show their appreciation either in words, via photography or in their art.

Saturday last was the day appointed for holding the various festivities in honour of the opening of Mr. Atkins' Inn, at Fyans Ford. The day was unfortunately of the most unfavourable description. At intervals the rain fell in torrents; and the distance of the scene of action from the town, prevented the attendance of an immense number of spectators. Making allowance for these untoward circumstances, the attendance was both numerous and respectable; and the spectators evinced a zealous interest in the various sports which were so managed as to take place in the intervals of fair weather. The sports of the day commenced with a hurdle Race between horses of all denominations; a mile and a half, over five leaps. There were only two horses in the race - Mr. Highett’s bay mare Una, Mr. Stevenson, rider. Mr. Denny's bay gelding Speculator, Mr. Wilson, rider.

Both horses went away at a slashing pace, Speculator taking the lead; the mare keeping nearly in company up to the second hurdle; when Speculator swerved and threw his rider. Una then had it all her own way and carried her rider over the leaps winning easily.

THE DINNER

In the evening, forty gentlemen sat down to a most sumptuous dinner, at the Fyans Ford Inn. Arrangements had been made for dining a much larger number, had not the inclemency of the weather compelled an adjournment from the tent which had been erected for the occasion, to one of the rooms in. the house. The viands were of the most recherché character and supplied in the greatest profusion.

Captain Fyans occupied the chair and Mr. Pinnock acted as vice-chairman. After the cloth was removed the usual loyal toasts were given by the chairman and were warmly responded to by the company - "The Queen," “Price Albert and the Royal Family," “His Excellency the Governor," and “His Honor the Superintendent."

The chairman then rose, and said that he felt great pleasure in proposing the health of one who, by his exertions in the improvement of that locality and the spirited manner in which he had set about and carried on the erection of that building in which they had met, entitled him to rank as a public benefactor; and he hoped and believed that the undertaking would be duly supported and appreciated by the settlers generally. He would therefore propose the health of "Mr. Aikins."

Mr. Atkins returned thanks for the honor which had-been done him; he was proud of the manner in which he had that day been supported; and he could only state in return that whatever he could do to provide for the comfort of the public, or to advance the general and individual prosperity of the settlers, he should at all times be most happy to perform.

Dr. Thomson rose to propose a toast. He was sure that everyone present would agree with him in saying that the prosperity of Geelong was mainly owing to the exertions of the upright and independent magistrate he was about to name; to him were the inhabitants indebted for the commencement of all the public works of the district, such as they were; and he was sure that he had only to pronounce the name of Captain Fyans to ensure an enthusiastic response.

Captain Fyans returned thanks and stated that he hoped he always would be found ready to perform his duty in a straightforward manner for the good of the community, which was the only way in which a magistrate could act with credit and efficiency. ….