The first thing you’ll see is a huge, white lighthouse with a revolving light and the words, “I am the Light of the World”.

Coming a little closer, you may hear the sounds of the Salvo Country Band from Macksville as they pump out a host of favourites ranging from John Denver to Johnny Cash.

The Tent of Promise Puppets from Queensland perform to up-tempo remakes of 60s classics.

Someone steps up to tell a Bible story, or Lizzie the clown, in her elaborate costume, captivates both young and old with her antics.

There’s plenty more for the children. Faces are being painted thanks to the willing Calrossy girls. There are sample bags, helium balloons, a sandpit and an inflatable play castle.

Hundreds are taking advantage of the free coffee and slice or the barbecue.

A team from Scripture Union Tamworth is there with free books and resources.

Compassion is on hand to show what can be done for the underprivileged in the world.

Bobbie from Anglicare is having a busy day. People are always encouraged to know that there is hope.

There are Anglicare branches in Tamworth, Moree, Inverell and Armidale where people can come for help, knowing they will be treated in confidence and anonymity.

People can find help by registering for courses or one-to-one counselling or financial guidance.

Graham and Lynette Dull live in Dubbo, but they love Lifequip so much, they make the journey every year and bunk down each night in a church hall for the joy of serving on the team.

“One of the big things,” says Graham, “is to see so many churches working side by side.

“We love it.

“As soon as it’s over, we spend 12 months looking forward to the next one.”

But the ultimate show-stopper this year is the dog man. Duri farmer Ian Page tells his modern doggy parables to the crowd.

He talks about what it’s like to be able to trust Jesus enough to leap into His arms.

Then he demonstrates his point as Smarty, his kelpie, climbs a ladder high onto the hay wagon and leaps into his master’s arms.

Committee chairman Kevin Kelly has watched Lifequip grow over many years.

He says: “It’s about regular, ordinary Christians getting to chat with people and genuinely care. There’s an abundance of opportunities to have a real conversation.

“There’s a strong sense that this is how it should be all the time,” Kevin says.