Harvest Moon fundraiser a success

The second Harvest Moon event, for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in Narrabri Shire, has been celebrated as a fundraising success.

Almost 100 people attended the festivities with more than $20,000 expected to be raised thanks to the community’s generosity.

It was an evening of entertainment with Goldheist and Brookie Gillet delighting the crowd.

Master-of-ceremonies Darrell Tiemens and organisers of the Harvest Moon festivities. Back, Rob Dugdale, Deb Michell-Smith, Anna Ryan, Scott Pollock, Abby McClure, Julie Drake, Liz Campbell, Prim Winston-Smith, Brooke Dalton, Jocellin Jansson, Helen Dugdale and United Way representative Leo Krikmann. Photo: Marsella Morris

A spirited auction, conducted by Scott Hamilton, also added to what was a spectacular night.

One of the most sought-after items was an opportunity to have chef and author Rhys Gard, formerly of Narrabri, cook at someone’s home for up to eight guests.

Local artists Jess Tribe, Deb Michell-Smith and Graeme Compton provided art for the auction.

This month’s Harvest Moon fundraiser for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program was again a fundraising success and attended by almost 100 people. Photo: Marsella Morris

Leather work by the talented Phillip Marshall was also a popular part of the auction, as was a ride-on Gator donated by Hutcheon & Pearce Wee Waa and a helicopter experience provided by Bryce Guest.

Hampers formed part of the raffle offering with items donated by generous businesses and locals.

Malinda Guest, Ellen McIver, Steph Brooker, Jacki Ward and Jess Craig.

With state government funding for the children’s literacy program stopping, every dollar raised locally goes a long way to ensuring children receive a book every month from birth until they start school.

A local committee operates to ensure the local program is supported by local sponsors and runs community fundraisers, including the signature Harvest Moon event.

Helen Bell, Judy Pownall, Elizabeth Campbell and Alex O’Neill.

Local members include Jocellin Jansson, Julie Drake, Liz Campbell, Prim Winston-Smith, Brooke Dalton, Deb Michell-Smith, Abby McClure, Anna Ryan, Helen Dugdale, Scott Pollock, Darrell Tiemens and Brett Nolan.

United Way, which delivers the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program in Australia, was also represented at the Narrabri celebration by Leo Krikman.

Jocellin Jansson, who hosted the celebration in the garden of her Narrabri home, thanked the community for their continued generosity and for believing that everyone can give children a stronger start in life thanks to the literacy program.

Sandra and Rebecca Shephard, Jess Morris and Leanne Flower.

“We live in a district of extraordinary wealth, talent and opportunity,” Ms Jansson told attendees.

“Yet too many children are beginning school without the literacy foundations they need. That matters deeply, because learning to read shapes so much of what comes next: confidence, education, employment and the ability to participate fully in life.

“But tonight is about what we can do—and what we are already doing.

John Manchee and Bryce Guest.

“Our Imagination Library has been running for four and a half years. We now have more than 600 children receiving a book every month, and we expect that number to approach 700 at the five-year mark.

“And what I love most is that this program is for every child. Whatever their circumstances, wherever they live across our shire, every child deserves the joy of opening a parcel addressed to them, discovering a story and sharing it with someone who loves them.”

Following Dolly Parton’s passing recently, Ms Jansson said what struck her about the outpouring of love was how deeply people admired Dolly’s generosity and humanity.

Steve Dalton and John Manchee.

“From her own humble beginnings, she understood how much opportunity matters. Through the Imagination Library, she gave us something beautifully simple: a practical way to help children imagine a bigger future,” Ms Jansson said.

“In the words of Dolly Parton from her song, In the Ghetto we are asked whether we see a child who needs a helping hand—or simply look away.

“Well, this community has chosen to help.

Chris and Jen Laurie with Jenny Mapstone.

“About 18 months ago, our incredible committee of 12 locals committed to keeping this program going beyond government funding. And you have backed that commitment with extraordinary generosity. You truly are the wind beneath our wings. Your generosity inspires and drives us to work harder and aim even higher for our children.

“It takes around $75,000 a year. That is a significant fundraising task, but an investment worth making in hundreds of young lives. A book, a shared story, a few minutes reading together: small moments that help build the foundations for a lifetime.

Roz Williams, Natalie Gourley, Claire Allen and Tess Lindsay.

“To our major donors, our wonderful auction donors, everyone who has contributed goods, services, time and expertise, and everyone buying raffle tickets or raising a hand tonight—thank you.

“To our committee: your passion, hard work and determination have brought us here, and I am so grateful.

United Way representative Leo Krikmann, with his wife Tina, was thrilled to attend the recent festivities. Photo: Marsella Morris.

“Together, we have built the momentum for change. You are part of it. Every book that arrives in a little letterbox is something you have helped make possible.”

Reflecting on the evening, Ms Jansson said its success was a testament to the Narrabri Shire community.

“It couldn’t have been a more beautiful evening,” she said.