A collection of bush poetry has helped raise $27,000 to research a cure into early onset dementia.
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A Collection of Bush Verse by Bush Bards has been launched in Hillston by the Back Block Bards.
The group is made up of extended members of the Vagg and Parker families from around Hillston and Ivanhoe.
It wasn’t only a book launch with Joan Vagg contributing 28 pieces of artwork for exhibition and sale, and her Window to the Outback quilt was sold by Rawlinson and Brown’s Peter Fisk for $3500, and the first book sold for $520.
Back Block Bard spokeswoman Mary Vagg said the purpose of compiling and launching the book was as a fundraiser for Dementia Australia Research Foundation, as a family member in their mid-50s has been in full-time dementia care in Griffith for four years.
“Maurice (Moc) Parker, one of the authors, did an amazing job as MC, entertaining the crowd of more than 350,” Ms Vagg said.
“He was ably assisted by Victorian musicians, Rachel Maruff and Gav Munro and the poetry recitals by the poets.”
Former Western Lands Commissioner Geoff Wise had the official duty of launching the book.
“Despite severe drought throughout the Hillston district, and a town population of only 1,400 people, $27,000 was raised on the night. A huge achievement”, Mr Wise said.
The book of bush poetry is available online at backblockbards.org.au.
Declan Rurenga
Declan Rurenga was the editor of Griffith's Area News and Leeton's Irrigator until September 2023. Before landing at the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area, he reported news in Junee, Wagga Wagga, Orange and Cootamundra.
Declan Rurenga was the editor of Griffith's Area News and Leeton's Irrigator until September 2023. Before landing at the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area, he reported news in Junee, Wagga Wagga, Orange and Cootamundra.
