November 15, 2021
The inaugural Bunya Mountains Dinner Under The Stars – organised as a fundraiser by the Bunya Mountains Community Association Inc – was a sellout on Saturday night.
BMCAI secretary Carol Weekes said 100 diners gathered in the Bunya Mountains to wine, dine and have some fun under the beautiful night sky.
The event. which was sponsored by The Bunyas Tavern, Stanwell/Tarong/Meandu Mine and the South Burnett and Western Downs regional councils, aimed to raise funds to build a multi-purpose community centre in the Bunya Mountains.
“The atmosphere was enchanting as night fell, with the area softly lit by strings of lights and candles and the South Burnett Community Orchestra String Quartet playing beautiful music,” Carol said.
“A packed program was managed by Cr Gavin Jones and the diners were Welcomed on Country and experienced a smoking ceremony provided by Shannon Bauwens from the Bunya Peoples Aboriginal Corporation.”
BMCAI president Ian Harris also welcomed the diners.
“The inspirational guest speech was provided by John Carey, from Stanwell, and an amazing presentation of the visible planets in the night sky was provided by astrophotographer Donna Glass,” Carol said.
“The staff of The Bunyas Tavern did a fabulous job and all diners enjoyed a delicious meal.
“The evening included a live and a silent auction, facilitated by Cr Jones, auctioning off many beautiful and valued packages, including accommodation, camping gear, French and Australian wines, a glider flight, F18 flight simulator ride, paintings, night sky prints and many more.
“The highlight of the evening was the sentimental package of a genuine Flo Bjelke-Petersen cake tin and orange cake recipe handwritten by Flo on a How to Vote Card which sold for $1400.
“The evening was a huge success and BMCAI thanks all sponsors, donors and diners for their support.”
