Kristin Murdock
05 August 2023, 7:40 AM
When the Tottenham Welfare Council started many years ago, a community expo became one of the main events that was organised for local residents.
Local, Geoff Chase, who has been the Council for many years and is currently president said the group started holding events at the racecourse in the nineties.
"They were great - bringing food, entertainment and education for the community, and returning money back into the town, but over time things died off a bit.
"I thought I had done enough with the whole thing but then when the chance for funding came around and we received $16000 through the NSW Government Community Events program I got reinspired. It was fantastic and then we had to think about what to do to and how best to put something on for the benefit of the whole town."
That's when the group came up with "Mingle in the Middle", a nod to Tottenham's fame as the most central town in NSW.
Scheduled for September 9th, since the event was decided upon, it has grown to encompass a range of activities and presenters for the whole community.
"We want locals to have a good time without spending too much money," Mr Chase said. "The aim at the moment is to provide tickets to anyone who wants them."
Mr Chase said that with these tickets, those attending will be able to have a free meal and drink, along with a free raffle ticket.
"We want to get the community together and promote mental health at the same time," Mr Chase said. "We have had great support from the Lachlan Shire Council."
The entertainment includes food vans, a movie, a performance from Dubbo singer, Alana Potter and a visit from local favourite, Donna the Astronomer.
"I met Donna a while ago and heard her talk, Mr Chase said. "She has a great life story and knowledge of the stars and so hopefully we can do some star gazing."
Life-long star-gazer and accomplished astronomer and scientist, Donna Burton from Coonabarabran was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the King's birthday honours this year.
Mr Chase recommends those attending bring rugs, chairs and sunscreen and insect repellent.
"We really want to put something back into Tottenham and this is for all our locals, so they have a chance to get out and mingle."
Details on obtaining tickets will be released soon.