By Danielle Kutchel
Local performers are banding together to raise money for the ongoing recovery efforts in the wake of the devastating March bushfires.
On Saturday 3 August, the Bunyip Fires Benefit Concert at Gumbuya World will aim to raise morale and much-needed funds for the community to help residents get back on their feet.
Doors open at 12.30pm and the concert will kick off at 1.00pm with the Maryknoll Fire Choir, followed by local band The Swamp Dogs. The feature act is the Dusty Millers, comprising a mother, a daughter and a sister-in-law weaving beautiful harmonies through their own songs and some old favourites as well.
Organiser Pauline ‘Bones’ Mackinnon said the concert had been planned since March, when Tracey Miller of The Dusty Millers wanted to help in the aftermath of the fires. From this generosity, the idea of the concert grew.
“We waited until long after the fires, at a time when people might be able to just enjoy it,” she explained.
“The notion of recovery is what it’s all about. People forget there were fires six months ago, but the community is still living this every day.”
As well as the sweet and skilful tunes, a hearty country afternoon tea will keep bellies full all through the afternoon.
Ms Mackinnon said Gumbuya World had been particularly generous in offering their function room for the occasion.
Tickets have been selling fast and are limited, so Ms Mackinnon urged audiences to get in quickly.
‘We are hoping the local community gets behind this great event for an even greater cause,” she said.
Tickets are $10 each or $20 for a family of four, and are available through Trybooking at https://www.trybooking.com/521311.
All funds raised go directly to the bushfire recovery centre in Tonimbuk.
Guests who are unable to attend are welcome to make a donation to the recovery fund through the Trybooking page.
