Russell Tait has seen out what was his last Deni Ute Muster as its chairman.
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After advising the Play On The Plains Inc board of his decision a few months ago, he announced his retirement from the board on Muster Friday, as the annual chair’s reception with sponsors and long-time supporters.
Mr Tait has been at the helm for 11 years, and expects his tenure to come to an end at the end of this calendar year - which is also the end of the Muster’s financial year.
A strong believer of board renewal, Mr Tait said it was time to step back.
He also expressed confidence in the current and future position of the organisation, which is a complete turnaround from when he first stepped into the role.
Mr Tait was elected chair in August 2015, at the same time the event’s board revealed its 2014 event suffered a $500,000 loss.
The primary goal was to steer the board toward success and financial strength, and Mr Tait now steps down knowing that has been achieved, and the organisation is debt free.
“I came in when the event was suffering a near death experience and, together with the board, the staff and the community, we’ve built a family friendly event with a great future.
“The foundations were there, but it was struggling a bit, and now we have certainly built an iconic Australian festival.
“I have been proud to see it grow and become a success, and I feel privileged to have had the support of the board and the Deniliquin community as chairman for the last 11 years.
“The first few years were certainly rough, but overall, it’s been a great experience.
“The key has been evolving the event.
“We’re in a strong position now, but the key to future success is renewal.”
Mr Tait said the partnerships and community support were also vital in the growing and continuing success of the Muster.
He said that extends beyond the relationship the event has grown with fans and supporters, and includes vendors, sponsors, the huge army of volunteers, staff, the entire district community and the emergency services who play a significant role in driving the event forward.
It also includes government and ministers, although Mr Tait said it did require a bit of “fighting” every now and then.
“It is a community event first and foremost, and not-for-profit.
“So many people and organisations and groups have been keen to help us with that success - but then that’s just the type of community we live in.
“One good thing about the Muster is what it gives back in return.
“The event is a huge fundraiser for local clubs and charities, and of course contributes significantly to the local tourism economy.
“It doesn’t matter what type of business you’re in, it’s your people who make it a success or a failure - it’s all the people who stand side-by-side with the Muster.
“I did spend a lot of time with politicians, but we’ve managed to get support and funding for the Muster Museum and HQ, and other infrastructure.
“The success of the Muster has also been leverage for other important community projects, including the airport runway extension.
“The Muster has been a platform to facilitate a lot of great things for the region.”
Deni Play in the Plains general manager Vicky Lowry paid tribute to Mr Tait’s “dedication, leadership and commitment” to the Deni Ute Muster.
“His contribution has been invaluable, and he has played an important role in the continued growth and success of the event.
“On a personal note, I have greatly appreciated Russell's support and guidance in my role as general manager.
“His passion for the Muster and the Deniliquin community has always been evident, and we are extremely grateful for everything he has contributed.
“The appointment of a new chairman will be a decision of the board, in accordance with our constitution.”
Whoever is elected to the board will have big shoes to fill, and a big hat.
Mr Tait has become known for his cream-coloured 10-gallon hat, which has been his Muster ‘uniform’ for most of his time as chair.
“I only bought it because they could never find me on site when they needed me.
“I went out and bought the biggest one I could find, and I only ever wear it at the Muster.
“It will retire too.”