Dubbo’s DREAM festival is floating on a wing and a prayer as cash-strapped committee members lobby for funds.
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A month-long program of events is scheduled for October but with only $5000 in the kitty so far, committee chairman John Walkom is looking for another $60,000.
Mr Walkom has no doubt the festival will go ahead and “be a great success” but he’s concerned too many potential financial contributors are sitting on their hands.
“We all know the proof of the pudding is in the eating so it’s only natural that people are waiting to see how things shape up,’’ he said.
“I want to assure the community that DREAM is a goer.
“Taste of the DREAM events held last October were well received and this year will be bigger and better.’’
The 2011 festival will start with a family fun day on the cultural common at the rear of Western Plains Cultural Centre on Sunday, October 2. The following Sunday a week-long program of movies will start at Old Dubbo Gaol.
On Saturday October 16 night markets will be held on the town green, at the rear of the tourist information centre in Macquarie Street.
The festival will conclude with a dance festival at the regional theatre on October 22.
Mr Walkom said other organisations are coming on board with associated DREAM events.
Zoo Grooves will be held at Taronga Western Plains Zoo on October 1, the Dubbo Chamber of Commerce will present a ‘Dare to Dream’ theme at the Rhino awards on October 21 and Dubbo RSL is working on arrangements for an under 18s concert.
“Discussions are continuing about other events to be held under the DREAM banner,’’
Mr Walkom said.
“Prospectus documents seeking financial contributions have been widely circulated and more are going out to individuals, groups and organisations.
“We’ve written to council asking for financial assistance and a positive response from council is expected.
The DREAM concept is already fully supported by council’s tourism and City Image branch, Western Plains Cultural Centre and the Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre.
“We now want to increase that involvement to a more significant level.’’
Mr Walkom said the Dubbo community had been pushing for an overarching festival for years.
He applauded Councillor Peter Bartley for taking the initiative
of calling a public meeting in January last year.
“After three months of community consultation the DREAM
festival was born,’’ Mr Walkom said.
“A committee was established in April. I got involved because my heart is cemented in Dubbo.
“I’m the fourth generation
of my family to live, work and play here - the fifth and sixth generations of Walkoms are now flowing through.
“Dubbo is a great place and it really needs a major festival. I urge everyone to get involved.’’
