Sue Savage at the centre of all things French in Wagga, at this year’s World Music Day event with (from left) Noellie Bourdoiseau, Kate Gainer, Helena Orel, (Sue Savage), Ketura Weston and daughter Poppy, Lyla Foord and Amber Flamank. Photo: Marguerite McKinnon.
She’s been at the centre of all things French in Wagga for 53 years and is president of Alliance Francaise. Now, Wagga’s Sue Savage has been recognised for her lifelong dedication to French language and culture with the Medal of Recognition from the world’s largest cultural network, the Alliance Francaise Foundation.
“That’s pretty special, and a lot of people have become aware of (Alliance Francaise) a nice little Gallic flavour, shall we say? It’s beautiful,” Ms Savage said.
Wagga’s French Film Festival, where Sue Savage (down the front to the right) was presented with her award. Photo: Alliance Francaise de Wagga Wagga.
The award was presented to Sue at Wagga’s French Film Festival, held at the Forum 6 Cinemas, after a busy few weeks of festival planning, including free live music at the “Fete de la Musique” known here as World Music Day. This event is held every winter in the Southern Hemisphere, to coincide with activities on the other side of the globe.
“The French started it off in 1982 and it’s taken off, especially in Europe, to take advantage of the longest day of the year … and here (in the Southern Hemisphere) we celebrate it on the shortest day,” Ms Savage said.
“We had fabulous support from the Riverina Conservatorium of Music and other groups, so we had to open early to fit them in, and it created a very good atmosphere.”
From teaching French language to organising events to bring people together around a shared love for France, Sue Savage’s commitment over the decades has inspired Wagga locals and visitors to value French art, culture and food.
Held once again at Meccanico Espresso + Wine on Fitzmaurice Street, Fete de la Musique patrons were greeted with a buffet of brass, woodwind, strings, and harmonies, over a hot cup, or sipping something cool with friends. Photo: Marguerite McKinnon.
World Music Day began in France in 1982, and has been held on its Summer Solstice ever since – the longest day of the year – to celebrate all types of music with free concerts and performances in cafes, halls, parks and other public places.
The theme for 2025 for World Music Day, “Healing Through Harmony,” comes at a time of sadness, helplessness and grief at those suffering war and tragedy across the globe. Music allows a sweet reprieve from the harshness of the world.
The event was best summed up by the Shakespeare quote: “If music be the food of love, play on.”
So that you don’t miss out on World Music Day next year, mark Sunday 21 June 2026 in your diary, and consider taking up French to make it extra memorable. You can be almost certain that a beautiful, smiling lady by the name of Sue Savage will be driving the event, with the help of other dedicated Francophiles. Bonne chance.
