The future of Rylstone StreetFeast (Saturday, November 2, 2019) has been secured for the next several years - a deal with Bowdens Silver helping ensure one of the biggest events on the Mid-Western Region's calendar will continue to pull crowds.
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In May the volunteer committee put the call out for a naming rights sponsor. Which was answered by Bowdens Silver, whose three-year commitment will help them notch up 20 years.
Rylstone StreetFeast Inc's Peter Monaghan said that this gives them peace-of-mind, because even though its a not-for-profit event there are still required costs that need to be covered in regards to licensing and security. And in tougher times, sponsorship can be difficult to obtain.
"It provides financial security, because with three years of drought businesses are feeling the pinch a lot more - and nothing's getting cheaper," he said.
In its 18 year history StreetFeast has garnered a loyal following - many of which are visitors to the area.
"We're going to have approximately 420 people for the long lunch, which sold out very quickly this year. We put early-bird tickets on sale in June and around half the tickets sold during that period," Mr Monaghan said.
Robyn Oakes added, "there's been a trend of returners, who have been coming for many years and then they bring friends, they spend money here and there's a lot of towns between here and Sydney which also benefit".
And while the 2019 long lunch - to be catered by Rachel McCarthy - has long since sold out, there'll still be plenty to enjoy. There'll be 40-50 market stalls, some will be selling food and there'll be seating areas, along with a range of entertainment including local artists Jasmine Kernaghan and Bushrock.
Mr Monaghan said that - by popular demand - they've focused on adding family entertainment, such as a merry-go-round and novelty games.
"This year we formed a sub-committee to look at kids' and family entertainment for those not attending the long lunch," he said.
"The Catholic Church have allowed us to use their grounds, which is where those activities will be and there'll be areas where mums and dads can sit and bring a picnic lunch but still take in the entertainment.
"And that came from feedback from last year, a number of local families with young kids who can't tee-up a babysitter.
"So even if you haven't got a ticket to the long lunch you can still come along and enjoy the day - that doesn't cost you anything."