Western NSW families raise $50,000 for dementia research with bush poetry book

The Vagg and Parker families from the Hillston/Ivanhoe district produced Back Block Bards, a collection of 58 poems by eight poets, all born and bred in western NSW, with their verse based on their experiences in the area.

The illustrations for the book were done by matriarch and well-known artist Joan Vagg, who also has poetry featured.

One of the poets, Graham Vagg of Ivanhoe, said the success of the book had exceeded all expectations, with sales as far away as New Zealand, Canada and the United States and the funds were going to a great cause.

"Dementia is a cruel disease that impacts on so many of us. The donations made will allow more research into dementia and hopefully one day will lead to a cure. To everyone who has bought a book or a painting and supported our campaign, thank you," said Graham.

The fundraising campaign began with the book's launch and a successful art exhibition and the poets have been on a "recitals tour" around the region. This tour continues at the Barellan Good Old Days Festival on October 5-6.

"The Barellan Festival is a fund-raising event for the local community with demonstrations of early farming techniques, milking and butter-churning, Clydesdale and bullock teams, camel races, vintage farm machinery, animal nursery and much more," said Graham.

"The poets will be doing recitals at Barellan during breakfast on Saturday and Sunday as well as Saturday evening."

Books will be on sale at the Festival or can be purchased for $25 each at backblockbards.org.au