Wednesday, 13 November 2024
The New England Garden Festival sprung into action thanks to a $18,094 grant.
The Festival on 2 and 3 November was in its second year and it was a blooming success.
Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan went along to the Festival at the Armidale Racecourse to see the impact the event had on the community.
“Events like these showcase the beauty and uniqueness of our region to a wider audience,” Mr Moylan said.
“The Festival itself is not-for-profit and run by volunteers who do a tremendous job in organising it.
“It was incredible to see the thousands of people who turned up to see what the Festival, and the Northern Tablelands region, had to offer.
“I am pleased the New England Garden Festival was awarded $18,094 from the Destination NSW Regional Event Fund to ensure the continued running of the event.”
Lou Forsythe is the president and founder of the Festival and said the funding helped with promoting the event, including by having Gardening Australia icon and silver logie winner Costa Georgiadis attend.
“The NEGF is a not-for-profit incorporated association of volunteers who have a lifelong love of gardening and believe in doing something positive for the community whilst raising funds for local patients and their families suffering from a cancer diagnosis,” she said.
“Costa did everything possible to ensure that the 2024 New England Garden Festival was a resounding success.
“He talked to everyone, listened intently, provided knowledgeable replies and entertained every child at their level.
“Costa was the very best addition to our 2024 Festival, and Destination NSW was responsible for that.
“We could not have asked for a more appropriate addition to our second Festival and are indebted to Costa and Destination NSW for this priceless addition that benefitted our entire community.”
Ms Forsythe said the overall success of the Festival was reflected by the “overwhelmingly positive comments” received and the committee is in the midst of planning for next year’s event.
MEDIA: Electorate Office 6772 5552
Photo caption: Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan enjoying what the New England Garden Festival had to offer.