Planning begins on next Apple and Grape Festival

Apple and Grape Harvest Festival 2014 planning has begun.
Last week at the annual general meeting, several committee members from the 2012 festival stood again for re-election.
Alison Somerset (treasurer), Liz Duell (young ambassadors) Gerard Torrisi (events), Peter Blundell (amenities), Deborah Wheeler (sponsorship) and Jean Hallas (ball) were re-elected into their positions. Trevor Fitness, who was stalls director in 2012, has accepted the nomination of festival president.
New directors are Bill Brown (grand parade), Rosie Harslett (Multicultural Food and Wine Fiesta), and Karol Pasin (volunteer).
“However, there are still two positions to fill – a stall director and a secretary. This is a community event run by volunteers and we need your help; if anyone is interested in filling these positions or becoming a volunteer for one of the directors, please contact the office on (07) 4681 4111 or email secretary@appleandgrape.org,” Mr Fitness said.
All the directors will be looking for volunteers to help them in their various areas,” he said.
Last week’s meeting was not just about wrapping up the 2012 festival; it was also a way of thanking Greg Thouard and some wonderful community groups who are always there year in, year out.
The 2010 and 2012 festival president Keith Barnett presented a Service Award to Mr Thouard for his wonderful contribution for more than 35 years to the festival.
“Amongst other things, Greg arranges the Decorated Windows Competition, organ-ising the Pipe and Brass Bands, tries to control the Grape Crush – a very messy job – and on many occasions has been our Master of Ceremonies at the Gala Ball. The 2012 committee wanted to recognise the contribution Greg plays in the festival,” Mr Barnett said.
Mr Barnett and Mr Fitness then thanked and presented donations to Stanthorpe State Emergency Services, Stanthorpe Scout Group, Stanthorpe Museum, Stanthorpe Local Ambulance Committee, Granite Belt Choir Inc, Stanthorpe Toastmasters, QCWA Stanthorpe Branch, Stanthorpe Little Theatre Inc, Dalveen Quilters Group and Stanthorpe Seniors Group, several of whom attended the meeting at the QCWA Rooms last week.