LONG-Time executive director of the Woodford Folk Festival, Bill Hauritz, has announced he is stepping down from the role. In a letter published last week, Bill said it was time after 35 years with Woodfordia, to pass the baton on and bring fresh blood to the hinterland festival.
Amanda Jackes has been appointed as the new Managing Director of Woodfordia by President Lachy Brown and the Committee. With this role, Amanda will also take on the Directorship of the Woodford Folk Festival. Bill and Amanda have worked closely together for 25 years, and he said he had completel faith that her knowledge, vision, and dedication would lead the team to greater heights.
Bill will remain on the Committee as Vice President, and he plans to slow down and work on Woodfordian projects that he previously didn’t have time for. He will also be contracted by Amanda to assist her initially and start some projects. He plans to attend this year’s festival, which will be a different experience for him.
The Woodford Folk Festival started in Maleny in 1987, and Hauritz and his team were ambitious for the folk movement and to explore the nation’s lore and innovate.
“Serving you has been a great privilege in my life. Thank you,” Bill wrote.
“The opportunities Woodfordia can see in its future are incredible and the thought of what the next generation can achieve is almost scary.
“The contribution we can make to our broader society, through our small ripple, will act as an agent for change for the better beyond the geographical boundaries of Woodfordia.
