Benefit for Bushfire Relief at St. John’s in the Village

Responding to the environmental disaster Down Under, the Church of St. John’s in the Village will hold an “Australia Day Concert: Benefit for Bushfire Relief” on Sun., Jan. 26, from 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The event is being billed as “a time and space for Australians in NYC to come together at this time of national disaster in Australia, mark Australia Day together with other Australians and help those back home.”

The event is also open to non-Aussies who are concerned about the climate calamity and want to help.

Every dollar raised will go to bushfire relief in Australia. Neither the musicians nor St. John’s will take any fee. All funds will go to the Australian Red Cross, as recommended by the Australian Consulate General of New York.

“The needs of first responders and victims are great and varied and it’s the services and charities on the frontline, such as Red Cross, who are best placed to know what is needed and where,” the Australian Consulate General said.

Sliding-scale ticket prices (from $20 to $200) allow people to pay what they like. Only those planning to attend should buy tickets since space is limited.

There will be further opportunities to donate at the event. (Donations are tax-deductible and receipts can be issued).

New York City-based Australian artist Cathy Condon has donated the painting “Terra Australis” (30 inches by 30 inches), to be auctioned at the reception.

Those who want to help but can’t attend this event can visit the Australian Government page, which has a fairly comprehensive list of ways to donate.

Father Graeme Napier, of St. John’s in the Village, at 218 W. 11th St., said the church is honored to host the event.

“As far as I know, it’s the only Village response — in terms of a get-together event — to the bushfires in Australia,” he said. “Also it has a fantastic line-up of musicians and a lovely reception in our art gallery. We’d love as many Villagers as possible know know about it. Not a penny rests here — all goes to Australian Red Cross.”

For more information about the event and to buy tickets, click here.