Honoring René Bauer at the commencement of Wormser Backfishing Festival
René Bauer, a prominent figure in the Backfish Festival, passed away on May 2, 2025, at the age of 61. His influence on the festival over the decades was significant, and his contributions were not forgotten.
The 2026 Backfish Festival honorary badge, a unique piece designed and crafted by Kienast goldsmiths, will be awarded posthumously to René Bauer in recognition of his exceptional service. This prestigious award, based on the festival's heart symbol, bears the initials of the recipients and the respective year.
The jury for this year's honorary badge includes Mayor Kessel, Mayor Stephanie Lohr (CDU), KVG Managing Director Markus Reis, Markus Rick (the second chairman of the Worms-Wonnegau Showmen's Association), and Mayor Markus Trapp. Submissions for the award are now open to the public, and nominations can be made via the festival's homepage.
René Bauer was the first chairman of the Worms-Wonnegau Showmen's Association and a partner in coordinating the site for the Backfish Festival. He was also the voice of the showmen for the event. His dedication to the festival was evident in his role as the first chairman and his continued involvement as a key figure in the event's organisation.
The 2026 Backfish Festival honorary badge will be the 13th edition of the award. The recipient will be determined by the jury and announced at a later date. The award consists of a certificate and a decorative piece, making it a cherished memento for those who receive it.
While there is no publicly available information about any posthumous nominees for the Backfish Festival Honorary Award in 2026, René Bauer's legacy serves as a testament to the impact one person can have on a community event. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill, but his spirit and dedication to the festival will continue to inspire future generations.
The jury will review the submitted recommendations for the 2026 Backfish Festival honorary badge, ensuring that the recipient is someone who has significantly contributed to the festival. The award is a way to honour those who have given their time, effort, and passion to make the Backfish Festival the success it is today, and René Bauer embodied that spirit more than anyone else.
The 2026 Backfish Festival honorary badge will be a fitting tribute to René Bauer's memory and his unwavering commitment to the festival. It serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have and the importance of recognising and celebrating those who make a difference.
