A group of locals in Coonamble, North West NSW have banded together to raise the spirits of their drought stricken community.

“We’re hosting a Rain Dance; a chance to forget about the drought for a night, catch up with friends and neighbours and wash the dust out of our throats. Most importantly, it’s a chance to dance up a storm to some great live music and break this drought!” explains Rain Dance Committee President James Nalder.

The Coonamble Rain Dance Ball will be held on Saturday October 6. The event is part of a broader weekend of events including a great day of Country racing the following day at the annual Coonamble Gold Cup.

James Nalder

“We want to provide a morale boosting lift for our whole community and district, turn a negative into a positive. It’s not just farmers, everyone is impacted and this is about recognising the effect of drought on the whole community”, Mr Nalder said.

“The Rain Dance is not only for locals, we are inviting our caring city friends and family, ex-Coonamble locals to join us to dance up a storm.”

The organising committee is seeking sponsorship from corporates, government and any individual who wants to help make this Rain Dance a reality.

“In drought times, the first thing to drop from the household budget is social events. Yet these are so important for mental health- an opportunity to check on each other and see if we’re all okay. Sponsorship for this event will keep ticket prices down, enabling cash-strapped locals to attend”, Mr Nalder explained.

“Now is the time to save the date and get in touch if you’d like to offer a contribution to the event. It only costs $50 to sponsor a ticket for a local to attend, but bigger sponsors can consider anything from a $500 ‘drizzle’ up to a $10,000 ‘flood’, but you can always talk to us directly if you want to bring a monsoon!”

“This event has the potential to provide so many benefits to our community,” James continued.

“It’ll raise awareness of the impact of drought on mental health, help bridge the city-country divide and boost regional tourism. But most importantly, a social occasion such as this, with friends and neighbours can be just as valuable in a drought as a bale of hay”.

Anyone who is able to help is encouraged to sponsor the event and give a local a night out.

Tickets on sale from September 1. Find out more on Facebook @coonambleraindance or email [email protected].

Tickets will be on sale in Coonamble as well as online at www.trybooking.com/XLUKr.

Donations are being accepted now at www.mycause.com.au/page/183184