Despite several failed bids to reintroduce the sport to the program since it collapsed in 2003, officials have been rewarded for their persistence with the Border and North East Axemen’s Association taking over the event.

Wangaratta Sports Club executive officer Graeme Taylor said yesterday woodchopping had always been popular at the Norm Minns Oval and hoped it would help bolster the crowd.

“It’s great news,” Taylor said.

“Woodchopping stopped in 2003, the year of the fires, and despite a few attempts we have been unable to get it back until this year.

“A number of locals have committed and the axemen’s association is working on attracting some entries from outside the region.

“We are really happy it’s back as it certainly adds to the carnival.”

Woodchopping will run from 12pm to 5pm with an underhand championship, standing block hard-hitting title, standing block handicap and underhand handicap part of the program.

Taylor said entries for the cycling and running closed at the weekend.

“We will know more this week, but I think it’s shaping up well,” he said.

“The prizemoney is the same as last year with $4000 for the gift and $2500 for the wheelrace and the total prizemoney for the carnival is $16,000.

“The Hume Building Society is back as our major sponsor and we’re looking forward to another successful carnival.”

The action starts at 12pm and finishes at 10pm.

Fireworks will follow the day’s events.