02/11/2025
To close off Peel Jam 2025, there are, as always, plenty of people to thank for the Jam. Firstly, thanks to the musicians who brought the jam to the Peel Jam with biscuits and lollies as payment. Thanks for not only agreeing to do it anyway but being really keen (we already have a 2026 waiting list!). I feel like the local music family loves an excuse to hang out for the day and I am really proud of that vibe. Huge thanks to Mark Bradbury, provider of awesome sound and lighting who committed to 12 hours on site, resetting three times to accommodate the weather and my gambling with it without complaint (at least, I was out of earshot if you did), you are a legend. The sound was sweet and I'm sure we would all agree that we've never sounded better live.
To our committee, Clare, Howard, Geraldine, Libby, Bruce, John, Jack, Dave and Judy, who are not only great people to work with but are also friends. Thanks for working in your silos and delivering. Thanks to the Peel community members who help out including Ross for internet access, Alex for signs, Josh, Rosco, Susan, Jack F and friends who are roped in for the setup and packup. For the artists, Cate McCarthy, Jock Alexander and Jane Patterson Watercolours for your commissions and donations. Jock, I believe you get a whole separate post but I'm pinching myself right now because my head hasn't quite processed your generosity. Thanks to the ClubGRANTS crews at the RSL and Panthers for judging us worthy of your annual grant.
To Renzaglia Wines and Cosmo Brewing who made sure they turned up in spite of another event (ironically called Zest Fest - there's some future partnership in there, surely). Judy's Bits and Bobs, Wakatu Gallery and CKM Pottery for their lovely artisan stalls. Thanks to Robi’s Kitchen for bringing some Sri Lankan flavour to the day and to the Peel Rural Fire Service, not only delivering sausage sangas, hotdogs and pulled beef rolls, but also sourcing Mr Whippy's machine and giving us soft serve icecream.
Finally, thanks to the audience. We are so proud of our laid back festival, with kids having the freedom to leave their parents and play or dance with each other, the village atmosphere, the opportunity to catch up with neighbours, broader community members and friends and relatives travelling from long distances just to be at the Jam. While it's important for us to raise money for the Peel Recreation Reserve, the celebration of community and creativity is central to the Jam.
I'll do a post about our final fundraising tally but will sign off, tired but smiling, for now.
Christine
