WHEN nine musical acts hit the stage at Muswellbrook's Railway Hotel earlier this month, their collaborative effort certainly struck a chord for the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS).
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
And, on Tuesday, February 18, event organisers Brady Cavanagh and Alix Smith handed over a handy cheque for $3057.90 to the Kayuga brigade - the proceeds of their Barbie for the Brave fundraiser.
Hayley Franklin, Mahli Cavanagh, Imogen Hall, Shyanne Irwin, Worm Juice, 7am Bourbon, Kyda Rock, Carrot Bowen and The Collective and Lucky Day not only provided the entertainment on the afternoon, but did so voluntarily.
"They were all happy to help out - and freely donated their time," Mr Cavanagh said.
"So, we'd like to thank all of them.
"It's rare to get so many local musos in the one place.
"However, the feedback we received [from them] was great.
"Plus, the event raised more money than we thought we'd get.
"Barbie for the Brave attracted about 250 people, so it was a really big turnout.
"We're thrilled with the response.
"It was a wonderful display of community spirit."
Mr Cavanagh said he and band mate Tom McKenzie were motivated to assist the NSW RFS after watching an emotional video on Facebook.
"It featured some of the volunteers who died and the impact it had on their families," he explained.
"We were really moved by it.
"In fact, Tom and I felt helpless and wanted to do something.
"That's when we came up with the idea of a band night.
"Alix and the Railway Hotel were keen to play a part, too."
It's the second occasion in recent times that the Kayuga NSW RFS brigade has benefitted from such generosity.
The hard-working members also picked up $3042.50 from a pool competition, at the same venue, in January.
"The support's been fantastic," Deputy Captain Jayden Hollis said.
"We really appreciate it.
"A lot of the items we're purchasing [with the funds] will simply make our job easier.
"We're only a small group.
"But, at the end of the day, it makes a huge difference.
"We can't express our gratitude enough."