With Halloween just around the corner, a Facebook page is doing the hard work, mapping out which houses in Mudgee and the surrounding areas are awaiting trick or treaters.
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The page that started last year, has been gaining attention with increased numbers of locals willing to participate in the Celtic originating celebrations.
Erica Purtell said she started the page as a keen trick or treater and wanted to know who else was.
“I originally started the page for Mudgee because like most people, I focus on myself and that was what I needed - to let people know I am open for trick or treating and know of other places where I could take my kids to participate.”
The page has since been opened to surrounding areas after people expressed their interest in participating on a regional level.
Last year, there were approximately 20 to 30 houses that participated in Mudgee alone, with a further 10 to 15 houses from Gulgong.
Having her door open for the celebration, Erica told the Mudgee Guardian that children came to her saying they were tricked into thinking all houses were welcoming but instead were treated with an unpleasant reply.
“Last year some kids told me they went to houses with lights on out the front because they were told those were the places that were participating, and instead they were screamed at and told to go away.”
“At one point they even had beer cans thrown at them from a car.”
“I thought ‘let’s have a page with houses on it so children know which places are safe to visit.”
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Those who prefer not to get in the spirit of the occasion are reminded to let others have their fun.
“Those who don’t want to participate don’t have to but just don’t attack the kids for doing it.”
“I just want to stop the negativity towards the children.”
The youngsters who are anticipating dressing up are encouraged to dress according to the weather.
“Last year I had three kids almost collapse because they were wearing full black costumes.”
If you know someone who is participating in Halloween this year, head to the ‘Halloween in Mudgee and Surrounds’ Facebook page.
Woolworths mission to help Variety in lead up to Halloween
Mudgee and Gulgong residents are encouraged to support ill children from all across the state by shopping at Woolworths as part of this year’s Halloween celebrations.
As Halloween has become a popular time of year Australia wide, customers are invited to help others in need when doing their shopping in the lead up to the 31st.
Woolworths Mudgee customers can assist by adding a $1 Woolworths Halloween fundraising token to their shop.
100 percent of funds raised will go towards Variety for their ongoing efforts to support children across the state who are facing illness, disadvantage or living with a disability.
Variety offers financial support by purchasing things such as wheelchairs, specialist equipment, therapy and medical supplies, when families cannot afford it and when government assistance is unavailable.
CEO of Variety, David Secton said the funds raised will help families in need have a fair go.
“Funds raised across the Woolworths Halloween fundraising appeal will help us in our mission to give Aussie kids in need and their families a fair go, so we encourage local support from Mudgee and Gulgong shoppers.”
Woolworths Mudgee Store Manager, Lee Humphries said Halloween offers people the opportunity to donate to those who are in need of support.
“As kids and parents are carving out their pumpkins, selecting their scary costumes and getting excited for their annual Halloween celebrations, this year is extra special as it provides an opportunity to help other families at the same time.
“We’re proud of our long standing partnership with Variety and are always overwhelmed by the generosity of our customers. We hope they can not only enjoy their spooky tricks, but also include a treat in the form of a token to help raise funds for children and families across NSW.”
Mudgee and Gulgong shoppers can donate $1 by purchasing a Halloween token before October 31, 2018.
Jay-Anna Sleeman
Reporter for the Western Advocate. First began as a sports journalist with ACM in 2018 before moving on to cover news and court.
Reporter for the Western Advocate. First began as a sports journalist with ACM in 2018 before moving on to cover news and court.
