Community & School Displays | Maclean & Townsend NSW
Friday: 19 September
Grateful Hearts and Generous Hosts
Our overnight stay with Luther and Rebecca McPhee in Gulmarrad proved to be another blessing – not only did they provide wonderful hospitality, but allowed us to leave our vans there until after morning events. These generous hosts make our touring possible, and we’re deeply grateful for such kindness.
Food Bank Community Service
After bidding farewell to Luther at his home, we headed to Maclean Seventh-day Church, arriving as Food Bank volunteers were setting up their weekly community service. Pastor Adam Cinzio was already there, warmly greeting regular visitors alongside curious passersby drawn to see Bubsie.
Young Volunteers’ Excitement and Return Visitors
The highlight came during pack-up when one of the younger volunteers got his turn to crank the car twice – pure excitement on his face! We also welcomed back a visitor from yesterday who returned for another look at Bubsie. These repeat visits show how the car genuinely captures people’s imagination.
The morning provided excellent opportunities to connect with both regular Food Bank clients and community members, sharing Bubsie’s story while witnessing the church’s practical service to local families.
Friday: 19 September
Unexpected School Chapel Invitation
While the team continued at the Food Bank, Kevin headed to Lower Clarence Baptist Church for Pacific Valley Christian School’s 9:00 am Senior Chapel. Principal Brett Sharrock, whom we’d met at yesterday’s RSL display, had extended a last-minute invitation for Kevin to share Bubsie’s story. The young people listened respectfully as Kevin delivered a brief summary, earning him an invitation to speak at the 11:00 am Junior Chapel as well.
School Campus Display and Dual Presentations
After Kevin rejoined the team to finish at the Food Bank, everyone moved to the school campus. Bubsie took centre stage in the covered gymnasium for senior classes while Kevin presented to the junior chapel. Veronica and Glenda engaged younger children around the car with tailored stories before junior classes visited for photos and questions – their excitement was infectious as they peppered us with fascinating inquiries about the vintage vehicle.
Principal’s Joy Ride and Inspirational Connections
The conversations with students about perseverance and “keeping on going no matter what” proved deeply meaningful. Principal Brett Sharrock enjoyed photos in Bubsie while discussing the school’s spiritual nurture programs. As we packed up, Pastor Adam Cinzio received a well-deserved ride for organising our entire Maclean area events.
Onward to Grafton
After returning to the Gulmarrad base, we packed the vans and travelled to Grafton. Following setup, shopping, and team dinner, we opened Sabbath together and assigned weekend service roles – preparation that ensures smooth execution of upcoming programs.
