To celebrate History Week 2018, the Don Dorrigo and Guy Fawkes Historical Society hosted several wonderful events to commemorate the life and music of Buddy Williams (1918-1986), one of Australia’s first prominent recording country music artists.
Beginning with a morning tea on the anniversary of Buddy’s birthday with a screening of his short film, “I Chased a Chicken” the celebration then continued over the weekend. The feature event was a sold out four-hour concert of guest musicians celebrating Buddy’s music. Audiences were invited to enjoy unique pre-show program featuring a whip-cracking display, a cattle exhibition and a musical ride by the North Dorrigo Pony & Horse Club, all to the music of Buddy Williams.
Guests enjoyed fantastic performances showing the talent of artists Lindsay Butler, Pixie Jenkins, Trevor Day, Ashley Cook, Trevor Tolton plus Shaza Leigh and Peggy Gilchrist. Karen Williams, and heard recitations of letters of acclaim for Buddy from those who knew, worked and performed with him.
The following day, a special honorary plaque was unveiled by The Honourable Melinda Pavey, MP at the Don Dorrigo Museum celebrating Buddy’s success. Karen Williams, Buddy’s daughter, spoke to attendees about his character, generosity and life on the road, sharing anecdotes of her childhood, including Buddy’s pre-show sharp shooting performances!
All images courtesy of Don Dorrigo & Guy Fawkes Museum, Dorrigo
This event was proudly presented as part of History Week 2018, supported by Create NSW.
Credit to the Don Dorrigo and Guy Fawkes Museum committee on the success and ongoing story of Buddy Williams. For years we knew he was part of Dorrigo’s Story but now thanks to a lot of hard work he is forever a part of the town’s heritage. His real story is known and can be passed on.
The museum has worked on two wonderful concerts with Glady Sawtell and now Buddy Williams. It is obvious the town’s folk love the old tradition of attending musical concerts and as these played a large part in Dorrigo’s story let’s hope there will be more to come over the decades.
‘Good old Dorrigo’.