Blackheathens turned out in force today for the inaugural Australia Day family picnic.

On a surprisingly green oval, thanks to recent rain, the town's children enjoyed practising their sporting skills.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Blackheath, a range of musicians entertained as residents reclined on picnic rugs in the shade.

In the cricket nets, ball machines kept young batters on their toes. On the nearby tennis courts, potential Ash Bartys enjoyed the ANZ hotshots for three- to nine-year-olds. And soccer players were put through their paces on the oval.

A highlight were a series of pinatas strung up on the basketball court. Children took turns to give them a bash until they broke, before swarming like ants to honey to gather up the spilled toys and lollies.

Rural Fire Service personnel were greeted with smiles and thanks, and a minute's silence was observed in honour of those who have lost their lives in this fire season.