Organisations are invited to nominate a representative for appointment to the committee at the AGM on Thursday, September 18 at 5.30pm.

Individual membership and supporters of the MWF Association would also be most welcome.

Following the very successful June 2014 Festival, several of the members are retiring after contributing many years of their valuable time, talent, expertise, hard work and energy, to help build a better cultural future for us all, said Mave Richardson, program director.

"We salute them and acknowledge their efforts with much appreciation," she said.

"Unfortunatley their departure leaves only a handful of people on the committee and unless the committee and general membership base can be increased, we will have no alternative other than to reluctantly disband."

MWF celebrates and promotes the diversity of local artistic talent and creative industry every two years.

Not only do the festivals showcase creative people, but they also provide opportunities for emerging talent to be recognized and encouraged.

The Festivals promote “lifestyle” choices for all, said Mave.

Attracting many visitors to the area also provides an economic boost for the people of the Manning, the value of which should not be underestimated.

The next Festival is scheduled for June 2016.

The MWF Annual General Meeting will be held on Thursday, September 18 at 5.30pm at the Manning Regional Art Gallery, Macquarie Street Taree.

All welcome.

Future meetings will be at times and days as determined by the incoming committee.

Without the support of the wider creative community, the MWF Committee will be unable to continue to achieve its objectives.

You do not have to be an “Artist” to be a committee member, but you do have to care about “Celebrating Community Creativity” in the Manning Valley.

Check out the website on www.manningwinterfestival.com