IN PICTURES: Perth Symphony Orchestra Narrogin Hay Bales Concert puts Wheatbelt South talent on world stage

The Wheatbelt South celebrated the district’s biggest night of the year at Harry and Sally Rogers’ Highbury property on Saturday for the Perth Symphony Orchestra’s Narrogin Hay Bales Concert. The region’s talent was on display for more than 1000 concert-goers at the event which was also live-streamed around the world as local bands, choirs and ensembles joined the PSO on stage under the stars in a massive arena made of hay bales. What started off as a small idea between Arts Narrogin and the PSO earlier this year grew into something big and unique. Minister for Culture and the Arts David Templeman attended the event and took to the stage after intermission to share some talents of his own. “First of all folks - what a beautiful night tonight,” he said. “I acknowledge the wonderful work of Arts Narrogin, Brad and his team, give them a big warm hand. “To the Perth Symphony Orchestra —haven’t they been beautiful and magical. “As you’ve seen folks, the arts brings everyone together, it nourishes the soul, you should be very proud tonight of all the performers from your community.” Mr Templeman serenaded Narrogin troubadour Jan Smith with an impromptu song before reciting a bush poem written by Wickepin’s Tim Heffernan adapted to honour local legend Dave Annear. On a windy evening at the end of a gravel road on a farm in the district’s heartland a special time was shared at an event that will be talked about for a long time to come.