$6k raised with music at drought fundraiser

THERE were tears, there was laughter as nearly 500 people squeezed into the Neil Street Uniting Church for Sing Australia and The Little Brass Band’s Celtic Concert fundraiser.

From the first striking up of The Little Brass Band with its playing of Handel’s Water Music to the sublime solo from Marilyn Kent as she sang My Ain Folk, to the joyous singing from the 100 voices of the combined Sing Australia Ballarat and Ballarat North, to the polished piano playing of Jane Nice right through to the final Highland Cathedral with Piper Brad Saul’s heart rendering performance– the audience were captivated by the commitment and talent of the performers.

Over $6,000 was raised which will go to the Burrumbuttock Hayrunners who will make sure that much-needed hay goes to our farmers in need.

Carolyn Priddle, the Leader of Sing Australia in Ballarat said that the numbers were beyond her wildest dreams!

“The audience started to arrive at 1.30 and they were still coming in at 2.30 as we cajoled people to sit closer together. We had no idea that this even would be so popular,” she said.

“It just goes to show how generous our community is when it comes to helping others in need. We are thrilled at the final sum raised and I will be sending it off to Rotary who then makes sure it gets to the hay runners.

“I am so grateful to everyone who donated money, their time, their skills and passion. It all came together in one joyous event.”