Community & Business
3 February, 2026
2026 Community Event of the Year: Gather in Gil
Gather in Gil was held on International Women's Day 2025.
Cr Amber Bunter said she was pleased to announce that we have received two exceptional nominations for the 2026 Community Event of the Year, Gilgandra Speedway's official re-opening (October 2025) and Gather in Gil (March 2025).
"These events have brought our community together and showcased the very best of Gilgandra," said Cr Bunter. The award was given to Gather in Gil, with organiser Claire Harvey absent, the award was accepted by her mother Carol Pidwarko, on her behalf.
Nominee: Gilgandra Speedway - Thunder on the Plains (October 2025)
"After an extended break for major upgrades, Gilgandra Speedway officially reopened on Sunday, October 5, 2025, as part of the Goin’ to Gil Festival. Over 400 spectators and drivers across seven divisions gathered for an action-packed race day.
"The speedway was officially re-opened with NSW Upper House MLC Stephen Lawrence, unveiling its brand-new 426-metre cement race wall, upgraded pit gate and a new safety catch fence. These upgrades deliver a 5-star standard track, protecting spectators and drivers while meeting national racing requirements.
"Beyond the thrills on the track, the event provided a much-welcomed economic boost to our local community and generated significant media coverage, including articles in The Gilgandra Weekly, The Liberal, and the Speedway Australia Newsletter, as well as features on 2DU, 2Web Bourke, Facebook, Channel Seven News, and council platforms," read Cr Bunter.
Awarded: Gather in Gil - Curban (March 2025)
"Claire Harvey did an outstanding job bringing the Gather in Gil event to life. Held in March 2025 at Curban Community Hall to coincide with International Women’s Day, this first-time event created a safe, welcoming space for rural women to connect and celebrate their contributions to our community. Invitations extended beyond Gilgandra, attracting attendees from surrounding areas and showcasing the best of our region.
"Claire’s efforts included engaging local businesses through sponsorships, providing them with valuable exposure, and featuring inspiring guest speakers who shared honest stories about building businesses and navigating life in rural communities. With local catering, live music, and regional suppliers, the event truly celebrated community spirit. Rapid ticket sales, strong promotion, and glowing feedback reflect Claire’s passion, attention to detail, and commitment to empowering rural women," read Cr Bunter.
Claire's mother, Read by Carol Pidwarko, accepted the award on her behalf.
"Claire truly wishes she could be here today in person. Gathering Gil was created from a simple idea to bring together, celebrate real stories, and strengthen connection in our local community. Last year, 120 women gathered at the idyllic Curban Hall, made possible through the incredible support of local business' sponsors. The Big Ideas grant, guest speakers, and friends and family who helped behind the scenes. Offering their time, ideas, and encouragement, and backing the event from day one, it truly wouldn't have happened without that support. It was a very special day. Claire would also like to thank the wider Gilgandra community and everyone who purchased tickets and continues to support small businesses and local events. Supporting small businesses is what allows big things to happen in regional towns, and that support plays an important role in keeping our community strong, connected, and thriving. Thank you again for the nomination, and Claire hopes to see many of you at the next Gather in Gil event in March. Thank you very much."
