19/07/2026
As Chair of Chudfest I get to see just how much work is involved in the delivery of a 10 day festival. When we put out our thank you post last week, we covered one of the most important elements in just two words: “the committee.”
In addition to being involved in many ways throughout the week, committee members have specific roles within Chudfest. I’d like to acknowledge the whole team individually for their huge efforts throughout the lead-up to and during the festival itself.
Alison Neely who manages the distribution of more than 2000 brochures; plus all the posters you see around town.
Gina Sherwood, our principal ideas person and events organiser, especially for Party in the Park, plus our SM supremo.
James Bushell who manages much of the infrastructure in the marquee, including PA, sound system and lighting.
Jon Sherwood who works on the infrastructure, the bar, the BBQ and anything else he’s asked to.
Kate McCormick who counts everything and crunches numbers incessantly.
Liz Baldwin who provides a home for all the ‘stuff’ we need to store and pitches in to help wherever she’s needed (and will be working on the Christmas event this year with Kate).
Mandy Joost, the newest member of the team who organised the Karaoke and brought a major sponsor on board.
Nicky Over who is responsible for the wonderful brochures you see twice a year.
Sarah Browne who is the main link with CADS (as well as being this year’s murderer) and a very willing bar maid.
And Sarah Rundle, our premises manager and another one who spent most of the week behind the bar.
Alongside the committee we have a small army of volunteers and organisations helping to make the Summer Spectacular a success. There’s always room for a few more helping hands. If you’d like to join a hard-working, but very friendly group, either as a committee member or as a volunteer, and get involved in organising Chudfest events, just drop me a line: [email protected]
Michael McCormick, Chair of Chudfest
