By JOLENE OGLE
WE have been enjoying the chilled out vibe of Peregian Originals for almost 14 years – and now, thanks to promising sponsorships deals, the concerts look set to stay.
Event organiser Marcus Pluckhahn from East Coast Originals said two local businesses had stepped up to help keep the community concerts running.
“These guys are lifesavers,” he said. “We don’t get funding so it is great to see local businesses come on board to help keep the community events going.”
John and Nicole Siljuk from Wahoo Takeaway have already supported the Peregian Originals concerts as a minor sponsor for the past 13 years, but were happy to become a major sponsor after the closure of the Peregian Beach Surf Club restaurant forced the end of a long-term sponsorship.
John said he was excited to help the event stay alive and said the concerts were great for their take-away business. In fact, the shop gets so busy, John hasn’t been able to sneak away and enjoy the concert since it moved from the Peregian Village Square to the park in front of the surf club many years ago.
“But it’s great to be a part of the atmosphere,” he said.
Peregian Beach’s newest realtor, Phil Shorton of Mondo Realty, said his love for music and community spirit were the driving force behind his sponsorship.
“I play the drums and have attended the events,” he said. “This is a great chance to now give back to the event I’ve enjoyed many times. It’s a good fit.”
The sponsorship deals bring relief to Marcus and the East Coast Originals team, who said the events wouldn’t happen if it wasn’t for the help of local businesses and the gold coin donations from everyone who attends the monthly concerts.
Marcus said the extra cash will also help East Coast Originals improve the concerts with better equipment and children’s entertainment.
