Mr Claus paid a special visit to Gordon on Sunday for the town's annual community fair but it was a placid koala that had children and their parents queuing up for meet-and-greet photo opportunities early in the day.

There were plenty more fellow animals vying for junior festival-goers' attention too, at Gordon Recreation Reserve.

Hugs with rabbits in the mobile animal farm were a hit - and more easy to get close to than the ducks and chickens mingling about. Valentine the cow was happy to just rest and meet interested youngsters, including one young girl who proudly showed her a soft plastic toy cow for reference.

A bucking bull was more suited to older children and adults keen to have a ride.

There were crafts and produce from across Gordon and neighbouring towns for those keen to start or polish off their present shopping with only 24 sleeps until Christmas Day.

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