MEET THE TEAM – ROBYN STEWART

When did you start and what do you do at the Folkie?

I can’t really pin point a year for sure, but thinking around 18 -20 years, I’ve been on the Committee now for 6 years, prior to this I was the Office Manager for 7 years, and prior to that I was volunteering, way back when the office was in the front of the Reardon Theatre. I used to help with the tickets, when we would print and post them. I recall myself and another volunteer would have races to see who could produce the most tickets, whilst also hammering the old tractor feed printer and not letting it pause! The ticket exchange was also in Reardon Theatre at this stage, so I also helped out there. I presently manage all the Friends of the Festival volunteers.

What’s your favourite Folkie memory?

Hard question this one, every Festival has its highlights. Although the introduction of the huge tent in 2025 was super exciting.

What’s one thing people wouldn’t guess about your role?

A few figures here for people to ponder – I manage around 350-380 volunteers, which varies a bit year to year. I roster around 960 shifts covering near on 4000 hours. Thats just the Friends of the Festival, not including Community and Construction groups!

What’s your go-to Folkie food or drink?

Poffertjes, maple syrup and cream.

What’s a song or artist that reminds you of the Folkie?

I did really enjoy Steve Earle and Colin Hay – the first couple that come to mind quickly.

What’s the most rewarding part of being involved?

My reward is seeing what goes back into the community via the various  groups that assist, and our grants program. Fundraising efforts for these groups and schools is getting tougher these days. And knowing the overall benefits for the region that the Festival brings in.

What’s your Folkie survival tip?

NO PLAN….. no disappointment!  Just wander around at your leisure and you never know what you will find.

If the Folkie were a person, how would you describe them?

Female hah!  Seriously, this person would be a very kind, considerate and generous person and very community minded, whilst also very productive and proactive.

What’s something you’ve learned from working on the festival?

How important community and those that are active in it are, and in making a difference to the place we call home.

What are you most excited about for the next Folkie?

Everything – every Festival is exciting!