Community collaboration commended at Seymour River and Ranges Music Festival

By Billie Davern

Mar 17, 2025

The Seymour River and Ranges Music Festival on March 15 saw community members flocking to Kings Park to enjoy a night of excellent music. Photo by Billie Davern

The Seymour River and Ranges Music Festival was a night of so much more than song and dance.

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On Saturday, March 15, community members got together for a night of both reflection and fun, with food trucks, great music, market stalls, and activities for the kids.

Dan, Axton, Kai, Candice and Brylee Raynor had a great set-up to enjoy the sounds on stage. Photo by Billie Davern

During an address by Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall, attendees were able to look back on the tumultuous times of the October 2022 and January 2024 floods, and see how far Seymour has come.

“This festival is a great example of collaboration with Mitchell Shire Council, local organisations and volunteers working together,” Cr Dougall said.

“This has been planned with the Seymour Community Recovery Committee and reflects a shared vision, and the power of our community.

Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall addressed attendees. Photo by Billie Davern

“The journey of recovery and resilience has been quite remarkable, the October 2022 floods affected over 250 properties and caused extensive damage.

“Additional floods in January 2024 and storms added to the challenges, and thanks to the extraordinary response from volunteers and community groups, we’ve stood strong and rebuilt together.”

Irene Telford, Keiranne Speechley, Leonie Willis, Michael Easton, Glenys Lejins and Jenny Leatham were recognised for their hard work with the Seymour Community Recovery Committee. Photo by Billie Davern

Co-chair of the Seymour Community Recovery Committee Neil Beer said the strength of the community shone during its darkest times.

“Our community always steps up, and this was so evident during and after the October 2022 floods,” Mr Beer said.

“Sporting clubs, community organisations, service clubs, emergency services and members of the public provided exceptional support, well above expectation.

“My gratitude to (council’s) support cannot be put in words, as we genuinely operated as a team.”

Jimi Barnes, Pia, Indi, and Nick Qiu enjoyed painting at the art table. Photo by Billie Davern

Co-chair Stuart Locke gave thanks to all of the community members and organisations involved, and wished attendees an enjoyable night.

“Tonight is just one way of having everyone coming together, being happy and having fun,” Mr Locke said.

Taylor Sheridan put on a fantastic performance for the crowd. Photo by Billie Davern

The free event was host to a line-up including Carter & Carter, Taylor Sheridan, Kingswood and The Black Sorrows, with community members enjoying the sounds in Kings Park from 2pm until 10pm.