Community Displays | Ballina NSW
Tuesday: 16 September
Ballina Triple Header: Fair, Lighthouse, and Shopping Centre Success
Morning at Ballina Fair Carpark
Beautiful weather greeted us in Ballina as we arrived early to set up in our designated carpark area. Channel 7’s coverage from last night was already paying dividends – numerous people mentioned seeing Bubsie on the news! The steady morning flow included a particularly touching encounter with a young man who took both The Overlander and God’s Rescue Plan, then returned excitedly to show us his own modified car. These personal connections make every setup worthwhile.
Tuesday: 16 September
ADRA Op Shop and VIP Mayoress Drive
Our quieter hour at the ADRA Op Shop proved equally rewarding, connecting with staff and customers during their shopping visits. The real highlight was an unexpected reunion with Julia and Gordon Smith and their daughters, former Cairns tour team leaders who spotted Bubsie during their family holiday! Meanwhile, Karen and Kevin treated the Mayoress to a special lap around town in Bubsie. Her husband’s enthusiasm was infectious as he called out to passing pedestrians, while the Mayoress revealed she’d already read the book and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Tuesday: 16 September
Evening Church Hall Community Gathering
By 5:30 pm, people began arriving at Ballina Church Hall for our information night display. The foyer featured a comprehensive book display alongside The Overlander distribution, while about 40 attendees – including the returning Mayoress and her husband – gathered for the evening. Over excellent food, Kevin shared the complete story of Nevill and Greg’s adventures, weaving in highlights from our current journey. The warm reception extended beyond church members, with curious neighbours also stopping by to see Bubsie. The night concluded perfectly with sweets and smiles all around – outstanding hospitality from Ballina church that made for a memorable community evening!
