Long grassers help out Queenslanders with Out Of The Rain

A group of Darwin “long grassers” (people who sleep out in the city’s parks) have been so moved by the plight of their fellow Australians affected by the Queensland floods that they are hosting a special fundraiser this Sunday.

‘Out of the Rain’ is a performance initiated by participants of Bricks Without Straw – a homelessness project of The Salvation Army NT.

The initial idea came from Ned, a veteran long grasser and active participant in the project.

“We should remind the rest of Darwin that when we were down and out after Cyclone Tracy, who came to help us?” he said. “Therefore we should also lend a hand to those who need our help in Queensland.”

Out of the Rain will be held on the 30 January at the Filipino Community Centre on Amy Johnson Avenue, Karama from 6pm. It will feature guest performances by professional and community artists, including Tracy Bunn, Phil O’Brien, Yuliana Pascoe, Sean Hutton, Reggae Dave Asera and many more. Presentations will also be made by long grassers such as ‘Trevor the Rubbish Warrior’ and The Bricks Without Straw Drumming Ensemble.

Paintings and artworks will also be auctioned on the night. Food and drinks will be available to buy, however the event is alcohol-free. Entry is free.

Organisers still need meat, bread and other food such as curries and rice, as well as volunteers to help cook, clean and drive.

All funds donated will go to The Salvation Army’s Queensland Flood Relief Fund. Businesses and other organisations are encouraged to initiate simple fundraising activities and present the proceeds on the night of the concert.

For more information please contact Major Peter Wood at The Salvation Army Regional Headquarters on (08) 8944 6000 or Project Coordinator Betchay Mondragon Williams on 0447 340 241.