NOTE: This archived newsletter may refer to events, links etc that have since been updated and may no longer be valid. Please read this article as a historical record rather than a source of current information.
Newsletter February 18th 2010
That Francessential Feeling with an INCREDIBLE OFFER…
Greetings all and ahoy for the ELEVENTH magical Frances!
Just a note to wish you well for your journeys to your favourite big little event and to share some last minute info.
All is set for another grand time with another guaranteed quality programme with lots happening - as well as all your usual sessions and opportunities to catch up with friends new and old. If this isn’t building tradition and friendship then what would be? We continue to work hard to stick to one of our key principles – to keep the spirit of Frances going just the way it was originally intended while also keeping it fresh with new approaches each year.
So…
First, spread the word and get your friends and neighbours along – let’s keep building the strength of the Australian Folk Scene.
Second, we’re trying to help those who NEED the service by having a few powered sites this year. Remember the use of power was abused by a few in the past and we just had to stop having it available. This year there’s a restricted area so let us know in advance if possible...
- what equipment you need power for, and...
- whether you have tent or van etc.
Email folk@francesfolkgathering.com.au (treated in confidence of course) to book a spot.
Please note this is for those whose equipment is vital.
Third, remember not to arrive for camping before Wed (24th), to leave grassy/smooth areas for those sleeping on the ground, and to respect the owls and larks areas – you know, the night birds and the morning birds. Grab the camperquette notes when you arrive.
Fourth, HELP! DO what you can to help out over the weekend – remember that Frances remains FREE because it’s completely hosted and run by volunteers. What can you do?
Fifth, the programme was finalised a couple of weeks back and should be on the website from Wednesday – not that you need know ahead – Frances is what we all make it when we’re there! But it does give you tips of when to sign up for what and where. And there’s a magnificent range of happenings for our futurefolk.
Fixth, have you and your friends entered in the ART SHOW yet? There’s still time - just go to the website for more info. The Art Show is in St Bronca’s Cathedral this year because we’ve more dance than ever happening in the hall.
Feventh and finally – how about this…not only can you still buy the souvenir 2009 FRANCES DVD (folk still can’t believe that for just $25 you get the triple DVD of the 10th Birthday Gathering – see the website) but the DVD offer is happening again.
ALSO there’ll be T-SHIRTS for sale and their likeness to hotcakes will be obvious – so get in early!
But BEST OF ALL we have a RAFFLE going for TWO TICKETS TO THE NATIONAL FOLK FESTIVAL in Canberra at Easter – that’s over $600 worth!!! Since tickets will only be on sale for a maximum of ten days and sold mostly directly to Frances-goers your chances of winning are VERY HIGH. Besides winning – what better way to support your favourite Gathering? Tickets are two for $5 or five for $10. The draw will be part of the closing ceremony at the end of the Notorious Mixed Grill on Sunday afternoon.
Oh Yes! One last thing... if you haven't entered the competitions there are still a few places left.
But, I hear you ask, my section was full, have there been some cancellations? Well... possibly. The website knows! But after this coming Saturday, on-line entries are closed. That is, until the day of the competition. On the Saturday morning at the Gathering we'll be taking last minute entries (for any vacant spots) and setting up a waiting list for those hoping to cash in on any 'no-shows'.
Phew! That’s it folks see you there and let’s have another ball!
All the best in Frances Folking
The Friends of Frances and the Frances Coordinating Group