Organiser Peter Denovan said that although there were fewer people than they’d hoped, the feedback from those who did attend was excellent.

“People even rang us up after the show to say what a great day it was, and they were absolutely gobsmacked with the gardens,” he said.

“People were just saying, ‘Man this is so great out here’. People just loved walking through the gardens”.  

Peter said that it was a great, relaxing day with a diverse range of music.

“Everybody loved Willie Wilson and they absolutely adored Christine Harmon,” he said. 

The performers took several requests from the crowd and enjoyed playing together.

He found that locals were very supportive of the cause and even received donations from those who couldn’t make it to the festival.

The Lions Club sponsored the day and are keen to keep supporting the Denovans.  

“We were very positive about it, and are more than likely to continue sponsoring it next year,” John McGufficke said. 

He said that although they had hoped for a larger audience, they realised there were many competing events that weekend. 

“Everyone who was there absolutely loved the gardens, they were magnificent. And everyone who was there enjoyed the music. It was a very relaxing day,” he said. 

John believed that those who did come had a very enjoyable day and would pass the word on. He said that the club is hoping to build on the festival’s popularity as time goes by.

The money raised is still being counted, but the first $200 will go to St Vincent De Paul and the Tingha Citizens Association. 

The Lions Club support a number of charities and John said they will distribute the funds locally as they see needs arise.

To see a full gallery of the festival, click here.