Getting Together Again for Den – missing Budgewoi man

Father of five Denny Smith went missing from Budgewoi on April 2 and his family is still struggling to cope with the complex financial and logistical challenges involved.

As they struggle with the pain of ambiguous loss (the complex type of grief that loved ones of missing persons experience), the Budgewoi community is set to host a community fundraiser.

The Together Again for Den event will celebrate his life, honour his spirit, raise awareness of the growing issue of long-term missing persons, and support those most affected by his disappearance – his children.

It will be held at the Budgewoi Hotel from 2pm on Saturday, 25, featuring live music, a charity raffle, and tributes from those who know and love Denny best.

Missingness presents an overwhelming and enduring impact on families, who struggle to navigate the complex financial systems fundamental to their livelihoods – from mortgages and superannuation to routine bank accounts and daily bills. 

“People don’t realise how quickly financial strain becomes part of the grief,” Denny’s cousin Mel Bowen said.

“The bills keep coming, the kids still need to be looked after, but you can’t access the support or resources that would usually be available when someone passes away.

“You’re just stuck.”

The Missed Foundation, which supports families of missing loved ones, says this hidden burden is one of the most difficult aspects of missingness.

“Ambiguous loss is unlike any other,” founder Loren O’Keeffe said.

“The pain of uncertainty is profound, but the financial and legal challenges add another layer of anguish on top of what psychologists consider to be the most traumatic type of loss and most unmanageable form of stress.”

Described as charismatic, talented and endlessly kind, Denny was known for his love of music and the joy he brought to those around him.

The event will celebrate that joy through live performances, shared stories and community connection.

Eighty per cent of funds raised will go towards a trust for Denny’s five children, helping to secure their future and honour his love for them.

The remaining 20% will be donated to The Missed Foundation to help other families enduring similar uncertainty.

A billboard of Denny donated by long-term pro bono partners, The Mobile Billboard Company, has been placed beside the Budgewoi Hotel, amplifying awareness for Denny’s story and the thousands of other Australians who remain missing each year.

Denny’s family hopes the event will help ease the burden for his children and shine a light on the broader realities faced by families living with ambiguous loss.

“Denny was the kind of person who lit up a room,” Bowen said.

“This isn’t a farewell, it’s a celebration of who he is, and a reminder that he’s still deeply loved, still deeply missed, and still part of our lives.”

Anyone wishing to support the event can donate through the fundraising page: www.gofundme.com/f/together-again-for-den or turn up at the hotel on October 25.

Anyone with information that can assist the family and investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.