About 300 turned out for Berrigan’s Festival of Music on Chanter last Friday, March 25.
The second event since being introduced to the local calendar last year, it was hosted by the Berrigan and District Development Association.
A diverse crowd was present, much to the benefit of local businesses and performers.
‘‘I had one local business owner tell me she made more in that one night than she had in the weeks previous,’’ said BDDA promotions officer Susan Escott.
‘‘The atmosphere and crowd was great for the performers, who said they loved the event and wanted to come back.’’
Featuring original music from a variety of regional artists, the Festival of Music’s performers were praised for their teamwork and dedication during the evening.
‘‘Jade Camden actually ended up providing backup vocals to a lot of the guys on stage,’’ Ms Escott said.
‘‘It was amazing to see, but goodness she must have had a sore throat on Saturday.’’
A lifeline for local musicians, organisers benefited from state funding in the NSW Government’s Festival of Place – Summer Fund.
‘‘The funding was to support musicians and artists who have been devastated by COVID lockdowns,’’ Ms Escott said.
The funding only supported two years of the festival, but Ms Escott said consideration would be given to continuing the event.
‘‘Unfortunately the funding only supports two annual events, so we are unsure if we will be able to continue running the festival.’’
‘‘It (continuing the event) won’t be easy, but if it’s something people want to support they can do so by either becoming a BDDA member, helping out on the ground, or contributing financially.
‘‘I want to thank all the amazing people who attended the event, we were astounded by just how helpful everyone was when it came to packing up the event and reopening the highway.’’