General News
22 February, 2023
Paying tribute to Reg
THE Music Homestead Country Music Festival will return to help raise funds for mental health charity Let’s Talk Foundation next weekend.
THE Music Homestead Country Music Festival will return to help raise funds for mental health charity Let’s Talk Foundation next weekend.
Music Homestead secretary Julie Stewart-Murray said the concept of running the music festival was to raise funds for Let’s Talk Foundation.
“The event first ran last year, and this year we’ve extended the hours,” she said.
“There will be lots of performers throughout the day, all of whom are giving their time voluntarily.
“There will be lot of different genres even though it’s a country music festival; there is a lot of range so there will be something for everyone.”
The Mortlake Lions Club will be hosting a sausage sizzle and there will also be a range of stalls, food and coffee vans.
A hairdresser will also be in attendance to provide $20 haircuts on the day, with all proceeds being donated to the Let’s Talk Foundation.
“Let’s Talk will do a couple of presentations on stage through the day at 3pm and 6pm,” Ms Stewart-Murray said.
“Guest speakers will talk about their own experiences and give people ideas of who to contact if they need help.
“But the aim is to have a nice day, a nice atmosphere with great music.”
Ms Stewart-Murray said the impact of mental health in a small, tight-knit community was a driving force behind the festival.
“Nearly everyone in the community knows someone or themselves has mental health issues,” she said.
“It’s important that people know they are not alone in their struggles, people are there for them to talk to and people are not afraid to share their problems.
“People need to know they can get help if they need it, and it’s really important to remove the stigma around mental health so people don’t feel embarrassed or uncomfortable seeking help.
“The festival is a good way for people to get together, have a good time and socialise while still giving focus to the importance of mental health.”
The event will also host a special tribute with a paddock open to host the Reg Dumesny Tribute Car show.
Mr Dumesny, a past Moyne Shire Citizen of the Year and Panmure identity known for his love of vehicles and generous dedication to a wide range of charities, died earlier this year.
“We’re opening it up to anyone with classic and custom cars or hotrods as a tribute to Reg,” organiser Jacinta McLean said.
“This will be a way to pay tribute to Reg because he has done so much for everybody.
“He had a heart of gold, could fix anything, he always got involved and if anyone needed anything he was there.
“Being friends with Reg and his wife, Cathy, and knowing the family I felt a bit lost, so I thought it would be great to do a car show in his honour.”
Owners of classic and custom cars are invited to bring their vehicles along to incorporate with the festival.
“Everyone is welcome to come along, whether they knew Reg or not,” Ms McLean said.
“It’ll just be a casual day out, enjoying the music and scenery.”
Entry is by donation, with attendees encouraged to give as little or much as they can.
Those attending are reminded to bring their own alcohol and chairs.
Overnight camping will be welcomed but power will not be available on-site to campers.
The event kicks off at the Music Homestead on Saturday, March 4 from 1pm through to 10pm at 239 Mortlake-Framlingham Road, Mortlake.