Emma Pritchard

Growing up in the Clarence Valley, the Grafton Jacaranda Festival has always held a special place in Dannielle Bower’s heart.

Describing it as an absolute honour to be the 2024 Matron of Honour Elect, she is looking forward to supporting, mentoring, and guiding the 2024 Jacaranda candidates during their momentous journey as proud representatives of their local community, and said it is very special to be involved with the oldest floral festival in Australia as it celebrates its 90th Anniversary this year.

“I have so many fond memories of the Grafton Jacaranda Festival,” she recalled.

“To celebrate such a monumental milestone in 2024, it’s a real testament to the Jacaranda Festival Committee and to the local community as it shows exactly how much this event means to them.

“I love how our community comes together to celebrate the iconic festival each year and how welcoming we are to visitors who travel from across Australia and internationally to be a part of it.

“We get to share it with them and show them what it means to us, and that’s very special.

“As the 2024 Matron of Honour Elect, I am also looking forward to creating many more wonderful memories during the Grafton Jacaranda Festival this year.”

Ms Bower previously received the honour of being crowned Jacaranda Princess in 2007 and was the Jacaranda Children’s Party Director from 2009-2013.

“I also introduced the title of Jacaranda Prince when I was the Director,” she said.

“It’s very important that we invite and encourage males to become more involved with the festival each year.”

Ms Bower is proudly sponsored by her employer Liveable Jacaranda Preschool and works locally as an early childhood educator.