She approached the fundraising committee about conducting a High Tea fund raiser outside her cafe.

Committee chairman Ken Raison said that although the initial aim of getting a council grant had been achieved additional funds would always be welcome.

On Saturday, October 21 35 enthusiastic and supportive locals joined Julie-Ann in CentrePoint arcade to have their taste buds delighted and share in the vision of a public stage in the heart of town.

WIN Newsreader Kate Fotheringham returned home for the weekend to MC the afternoon event. She shared her vision for the future of our valley and her support for the RiverStage Project.

Local businesses had donated a wide variety of tempting items for the afternoon auction. Guest auctioneer Bruce Moy seduced the crowd with his skills and $2000 was raised with all funds going to the construction of the stage.

Phil Grisold said this will add to funds recently donated by local business and Taree and Manning River Lions clubs.

Rotarian, Ken Raison has taken on the project management role and says the project is ready to roll once the Department of Lands has finalized their paperwork.

He said MidCoast Council has been very supportive throughout the application process and the stage would not be a reality without their support.

Work is already underway booking interested local acts for when the stage is completed. Members of the public can still financially support this project by contacting Taree Lions Club or Rotary Club of Taree on Manning.