LOOKING out for each other is just what people do in the small but mighty community of Rathdowney.
When volunteers put on the town’s second annual Spring has Sprung Fete at the Memorial Grounds, a strong contingent of local firefighters turned out to support their community.
After a smoky start to spring, organiser Alaine Merryfull was bracing for a fete without the firefighters, so she was grateful when they were able to come.
“We had a lot of fires out here before the fete and they were out 15 nights in a row, but we had some rain that gave relief and they just came and gave up their time,” she said.
“I don’t think people really understand the depths of what these guys do and how hard they fight for people’s properties and lives. They’re a very important part of the community and this year we had a kitchen fire demonstration and I saw people asking questions and interacting.”
Local support strong
Tracy Craven of Innisplain, who came along with family including her grandson Bo Bush (pictured front page) was among locals at the fete.
“We love the local arts and crafts, the Lighthorse display and it’s just a nice family day out,” she said.
Alaine, who spent many of her teenage years living behind the Rathdowney Post Office that was owned by her mum and stepdad, said support from locals was encouraging.
“I just love my community and I think it’s important for everyone. It’s free entry to get in, they get to see a lot of things, it brings money into the area for all the local businesses, and I think we can do a lot down here,” she said.
From strength to strength
At the 2021 Census, Rathdowney itself recorded a population of 320 people and the 4287 postcode, which takes in areas like Running Creek and Barney View, recorded 938 people.
Alaine said the response to the fete had been overwhelming in a positive way.
“We’re trying to slowly build it up because there are only so many volunteers, but this year I added two new things – BADCAP blacksmithing demonstration and 11th Brigade Lighthorsemen – and wow, wow, wow,” she said.
“Entries in the photography, arts and crafts and horticulture competitions all more than doubled from last year, and it’s only in its second year.
“We’re already having meetings about next year because the girls who have helped me this year have already got ideas. So, the enthusiasm is there but to keep it building each year we’ll need more people to help set up.”
Looking forward
Alaine, who also organises the Rathdowney Country Markets at the Rathdowney Memorial Grounds on the third Sunday of each month, now has her sights set on Christmas.
The Rathdowney Country Markets twilight event on December 15 will include night markets, a jumping castle, a lights competition and the decoration making in the barn.
