IT’S one of the community’s most anticipated calendar events, and beyond the food, wine and merriment of the festival, Moree on a Plate represents a vital opportunity to give back to Moree – and each year, the Moree on a Plate committee’s monster raffle donates thousands of dollars back to the community.

Last year, Moree and District Historical Society received $7000, with Moree Tennis Club the recipients this year.

Moree on a Plate raffle co-ordinator, Trish Siddins, says the raffle provides a terrific opportunity to support well-loved organisations in the community.

“We’re so proud to be able to help some of our hard-working local organisations who all rely on volunteers,” Trish said.

“We feel fortunate to have so many people stepping up to support organisations such as the Moree and District Historical Society and Moree Tennis Club – these are the initiatives that ensure our town remains vibrant.”

Jeni Birch (left) and Tina Clyne have been busy this week selling raffle tickets at Brooker Trading Co on Balo Street.

Receiving a very welcomed $7000 from Moree on a Plate, Moree and District Historical Society president Neville Campbell said the organisation was thrilled with the donation.

The donation went towards building a new fence at the site of the old Lands Office.

“We wanted the new fence to be built in line with the heritage of the building,” Neville said.

“The timber work is scalloped, so there was some intricate building work required, and we were very grateful to receive these funds so we could get the job done properly.”

The Moree and District Historic Society is a treasure trove of local memorabilia and fascinating insights into the district’s bygone era, and a very worthwhile visit for local families and visitors.

The Moree on a Plate committee will begin selling raffle tickets outside Brooker Trading Co this week, ahead of this year’s festival, to be held Saturday, May 9 at Moree racecourse.

Trish Siddins said given the challenging retail environment at present, the committee did not approach all local small businesses for donations this year.

However, big ticket items include an electric Gator for children donated by RDO, two $1000 shop local vouchers donated by Westpac, an RM Williams leather overnight bag donated by Assef’s, a painting donated by Ian Reardon, and pearl earrings donated by Sparkes Jewellers.

“These are extremely attractive prizes,” Trish smiled.

“Tickets will be sold in the main street over the next couple of weeks, as well as the festival on Saturday, May 9.

For more information about the food and wine festival, go to Moree on a Plate.

Words: Georgina Poole

Image: Bill Poulos

Moree on a Plate

When: Saturday May 9, 2026

Where: Moree racecourse

Time: 10am until 3.30pm

Cost: Gold Coin donation at the gate