Hi folks
We had the pleasure of being part of a fantastic concert on Sunday the 26th February. Far North District mayor John Carter QSO was master of ceremonies for the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway Trusts Concert at the Station fundraiser held in the Big Green Shed opposite the Kawakawa Vintage Railway Station. A unique musical bonanza of local talent put on an awesome afternoon of entertainment for a large and appreciative audience. First up were Kerikeri’s ladies barbershop harmony group and regular performers at the Railway concerts Bella A Cappella recent award winners at the Sweet Adelines competition performing Railway related songs in perfect harmony.
Ellen Callister born in Kerikeri, but now residing in Auckland, is an accomplished young Opera singer with a lovely voice who performed a number of classic opera and pop opera arias including “Think of Me” from Phantom of the Opera and a touching rendition of “Hine E Hine”. Ellen was accompanied by her mum on keyboards and harp. Australian born, South African raised and now Bay of Islands local Shavonne Aliphon is an up and coming young country singer who specialises in performing traditional country music and original songs. Shavonne left the crowd wanting more. Following Shavonne were local group Tambo who play Celtic jazz a mix of 70’s and 80’s rock and folk music. This was an infectious blend of styles and had the crowd humming. Next was Moerewa local girl Zoe King singing rhythm and blues to keep the crowd going and performing a great blues version of the George Jones country standard “Tennessee Whiskey”. Thanks to Alexander for doing a great job on sound as always. Also a big thank you to Shirley for inviting us to perform, all the volunteers that helped out on the day and who give so much of their time to keep these old trains running. And finally to all those that came along on the day to support the concert and help to raise over $2000-00 for the Vintage Railway Trust. We hope to see you all again next year.
Best wishes
Annette and Kim
