Last month Phillipa Gill from Ray White Full Circle went above and beyond in support of her friend Suzi Fray.
Earlier this year Suzi was diagnosed with terminal cancer. She performed in a band called The Johnnys, who only performed Johnny Cash music. In an effort to raise funds for Suzi to receive alternative treatment in Germany, Phillipa approached the owners of JRS Bar and Gill in Rangiora to hold a fundraising concert.
“The Johnnys had performed four times at JRS and I knew this was the right venue for this concert. I have always wanted to do a country music festival in North Canterbury for the mainstream public and not just RSA’s and Working Mens Clubs. Country music is the biggest selling genre across the world, but it has a real stigma attached to it in New Zealand.”
Unfortunately, while in Germany Suzi’s condition worsened and she had to come home.
“We decided to continue with the concert which I advertised on several music pages on facebook. I was blown away by the offers from musicians all across the country wanting to offer their time to the concert for Suzi.”
It was at this stage that the decision was made to turn the concert into the North Canterbury Country Music Festival.
Unfortunately, on the Friday of the first day of the Festival, Phillipa received the upsetting call that Suzi had passed away. Despite the devastating news, it was decided the Festival would continue, now in the memory of Suzi with the fundraising money being set aside in trust for her 3 year old daughter.
With bands and singers donating their time and music, the event was pumping for the whole weekend. Local businesses also donated cash and prizes for raffles and auctions.
“The total raised over the weekend was $6,600, which for a small community in a little local bar was fantastic. Through this event we have now created young talent nights ant JRS once a month for the younger generation to be able to showcase their talent in mainstream bars instead of country clubs.”
It has now been decided that the festival is now going to be an annual event and to raise money for people in need in the North Canterbury area.
Check out the North Canterbury Country Music Festival Facebook page for more info and photos.