B&S President Nathan Garvie said he was extremely happy with the progress the committee made this year and the changes they made to the format of the event.

“I believe the key now for the continuing success of the B&S is to attract big name bands and also a broader spectrum of people. The committee is now financially capable of attracting the good bands as well as support acts.

“It’s also interesting that 65percent of the patrons come from out of town so that brings a lot of money into our local economy.

But while the patrons came fron near and far, it was a community effort.

“We had wonderful support from the town and district,” Nathan said.

“This (cheque) is our way of saying ‘thank you’,” he said.

“Personally I’d like to see it grow into a different sort of event.

“It should be kept a music event but with different types of band to attract a bigger audience.

“Something like a Big Day Out but make it ours, unique to Goondiwindi with a rural town feel,” Nathan said.

Major projects that the committee has contributed to this year have been the new drainage system on the rugby field at Riddles Oval and the resurfacing of the cricket pitch at Riddles.

Goondiwindi Regional Deputy Mayor Cr Rick Kearney has congratualted the B&S Committee on holding another “tremendous” event.

“It is such a great event for the town. The money handed out goes a long way to help those sporting cluns and charities going,” he said.

“The B&S is recognisied state-wide has being a superbly organised event,” he said.

Who got the money

Helpers: Border, Junior Rugby, Lions, Rotary, Leagues Club, Golden Oldies, SES, Marcus McDonald Charity, Polocrosse, Fire Brigade, Ambulance Service, North Star P&C, Boggabilla Recreation.

Donations: Rugby Club, Hospital Auxiliary, AFL, Senior Cricket, Junior Cricket, High School, RSL Fish Club, Nayden Café Foundation, Scouts, Guides, Billa Billa Recreation Club, Colts, Little Athletics, Junior Soccer, Junior Netball, Junior League, Swimming Club, Gun Club.