Trundle Bush Tucker Day presents at Community Economic Development Conference
On the 5th April 2010, four delegates from Trundle Bush Tucker Day flew to Broken Hill to present a report on Bush Tucker Day and the benefits it provides to the small community of Trundle. The focus of the presentation was 'Community Events - it's not just about the dollars'.
Cherie Quade and Danielle Ward spoke on behalf of past and present committee members in highlighting the positive impacts that Bush Tucker Day has on the township and surrounding districts of Trundle, and the work that has been done by various committee members since the inaugural Bush Tucker Day in 1987.
The presentation was held in conjunction with that of Professor John Connell, from the University of Sydney, who has co written a report on 'Reinventing Rural Places; the extent and impact of festivals in rural and regional Australia’. These studies highlighted the extreme value that such events provide to communities and in many cases "the stated aims of the festival were ... linked to the pastimes, passions or pursuits of the individuals on the organizing committees, or to socially or culturally oriented ends such as building community..."
The delegates from Bush Tucker Day were proud to give an overview of the festival, which is now in its 23rd year, and outlined the importance of community support in ensuring the success of this event. Many town representatives at the conference expressed envy when informed of the number of groups, local business houses and organisations involved in the sponsorship, coordination and running of Bush Tucker Day. This cooperation and community spirit is undoubtedly unique and extremely valuable to Trundle in ensuring the longevity and success of the event.
A highlight of the presentation was the opportunity to share with other delegates the keys to raising valuable funds for local and national charities and organizations. It was clear to see the foundations, and objectives on which Bush Tucker Day is based, allows it to be a major feature on the social calendar of Trundle and its community members.
