2025 Performers

We welcome to our 2025 performers to the 50th Maldon folk festival – please watch this space as there may be more to be announced.

 

Eric Bogle SA)

Eric, is an Australian folk singer-songwriter. Born and raised in Scotland, he emigrated to Australia at the age of 25. Bogle’s songs have covered a variety of topics and have been performed by many artists. Two of his best known songs are “No Man’s Land” (or “The Green Fields of France”) and “And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda“, with the latter named one of the APRA Top 30 Australian songs in 2001 as part of the celebrations for the Australasian Performing Right Association’s 75th anniversary. Several of his most famous songs tell of the futility or loss of war. Prominent among these is “And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda“, written in 1971, later covered by Joan Baez, The Pogues and many more. The lyrics recount the experiences of a member of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) in the Battle of Gallipoli. Another of his best-known songs, “No Man’s Land“, is also World War I-themed. This song is commonly known as “The Green Fields of France”, a title it was first given by the Fureys and which has subsequently been used in many further cover versions. The song refers to the traditional Scottish song “Flowers of the Forest” being played over the grave of a World War I soldier. Bogle deliberately gave the dead soldier an Irish name (“Willie McBride”) as a counter to the anti-Irish sentiment prevalent in Britain during the 1970s. “As if he Knows” (2001) widens the theme of the wastage of war to describe the sadness of Australian mounted soldiers in Palestine in 1918 as they are obliged to shoot their horses, “who asked so little and gave so much”, before embarkation. (Ref Wikipedia)

Eric will be here this year with his band – Peter Titchener and Emma Luker. Pete will also be performing as solo and Emma is also performing with the Fiddle chicks.

 

The Bushwackers

The Bushwackers, established in 1971, the Bushwackers play Australian music, much of it based on the traditional folk and working songs from the early 20th century, infused with their own brand of contemporary subject matter and instrumentation. With a laconic, distinctive Australian sound, Dobe Newton and Roger Corbett voice 50 years of songs, tunes and dance calls.  As much as the music has changed, the spirit of the songs and stories that inspired the first Bushwackers have not. With their politics and social conscience proudly worn on their sleeve, the band combines original material with a traditional repertoire.  Songs such as ‘Beneath The Southern Cross’ and ‘When Britannia Ruled The Waves’, sit easily alongside a musical setting of Lawson’s epic poem ‘Faces in The Street’ and ‘The Ballad of 1891’ celebrating the great shearers’ strike. Now in their 52nd year, The Bushwackers are led by the mighty lagerphone of Dobe Newton and the musical direction of Roger Corbett.  Both are joined onstage with a great team of musicians wielding fiddles, accordions, mandolins, guitars, bass, and drums.  Their shows are filled with an enthusiastic diversity of fans who dance, sing and enjoy this unique Australian music.

Gina Jeffreys (NSW)

Multi award winning Country Music Queen Gina Jeffreys paved the way for the future of women in Australian Country Music in the 90’s, being the first female in the history of Aussie Country to achieve platinum record sales and sell out shows across the nation. After bursting on to the scene in 1991, when she won the iconic Starmaker, Gina quickly became the face of Australian country music. In 1994, she opened for Johnny Cash on a National tour winning the hearts of Australia. “From this moment on, things really changed for me” says Gina. “I literally went from singing to 3 or 4 people in a dimly lit Sydney wine bar to standing in front of 15,000 people a night before Johnny came out. That tour really introduced me to a fan base I would never have met and I’m so truly grateful for that. Touring with Johnny at such a young age taught me so much. Just to stand on the side of the stage every night and watch how he touched peoples hearts changed me.” Almost 30 years after it all began, Gina is still wowing the crowds both on stage and behind the scenes, mentoring and penning chart topping songs for the next generation.

 

Rod McCormack with James Gillard (NSW)

Long recognised as one of Australia’s leading musicians and songwriters, Rod is also one of the most in-demand record producers, having produced many award winning acts.  He has been responsible for many high selling and award winning albums and was named CMAA Producer of the year in 2004, 2008 and again in 2010. Rod has his own recording studio “The Music Cellar” on the NSW Central Coast, which has hosted the cream of Australia’s musical talent, bringing to life numerous Gold and Platinum albums.

As a songwriter, Rod has written over 30 number one country hits, along with theme songs and background music for a number of successful TV shows and documentary series, and has won numerous awards. He has over 400 titles currently recorded and released by artists here and overseas, including Wendy Matthews, The McClymonts, Lee Kernaghan, Gina Jeffreys, Adam Harvey, Beccy Cole, Paul Kelly and many others.

As a musician Rod gained the reputation of one of Australia’s finest, and is one of our most recorded artists, appearing on thousands of albums and soundtracks ranging from KD Lang to Jimmy Barnes, Guy Sebastian to Kasey Chambers, Shannon Noll to symphony orchestras etc. He has played and toured with many leading international artists such as Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, Sherrie Austin, Jamie O’neal and was musical director for Trisha Yearwood, LeAnne Rimes, Pam Tillis, Jo Dee Messina and Tracey Lawrence on their Australian tours. In 2006 the CMAA awarded Rod their inaugural Musician Of The Year. Rod plays many instruments – guitar, banjo, mandolin, lap steel, piano, hammond and lots more and in 1985 toured the American bluegrass circuit, winning the Colorado guitar and banjo championship, the Tennessee guitar and banjo championship and the West Virginia banjo championship. He has been both the Australian Guitar and Banjo champion 3 times each, before becoming a judge of the event. In recent years Rod has toured the US and Europe with Grammy nominated US based The Greencards.

Rod will be performing with Gina and will likely be on stage with a host of others so be prepared to be surprised.

 

19-Twenty (NSW & Vic)

19-Twenty are a high-energy blues and roots band who storm the stage like a freight train. With a sound that blends foot-stomping rhythms, raw energy, and an undeniable sense of fun, 19-Twenty has quickly earned a reputation as one of the country’s most exhilarating live acts.

Formed in 2010, the band consists of Kane Dennelly (vocals/guitar), Jeremy Berg (Drums), and John Gwilliam (double bass). Their music is a unique fusion of blues, roots, rock, and a touch of folk, characterised by soulful vocals, intricate guitar work, and a driving rhythm section. Whether they’re performing at a major festival or an intimate venue, 19-Twenty’s live shows are renowned for their infectious energy and ability to get audiences on their feet.

19-Twenty has toured extensively across Australia and beyond, captivating and connecting with audiences with their dynamic performances like no other band on the touring scene. They have shared the stage with legendary acts and made a name for themselves at prominent festivals, including the Byron Bay Bluesfest, Port Fairy Folk Festival, Woodford Folk Festival, Blues on Broadbeach and 70+ other festivals nationally. At its core, 19-Twenty is a band that thrives on live performance, where their chemistry and charisma truly shine. Their dedication to their craft and commitment to delivering unforgettable live shows has garnered them a loyal fan base and critical acclaim. Whether you’re a blues aficionado, a roots enthusiast, or simply looking for a night of high-energy music, 19-Twenty is a band that promises to leave you wanting more.

 

Claymore (Vic)

Clymore, recognised as Australia’s premier Celtic band having headlined in Australia’s largest folk events and toured internationally on many occasions, they have visited the USA, UK and Europe. A passionate band of multi-instrumentalists who not only manage to combine traditional elements of Celtic music by integrating the traditional into the modern day, they write beautiful original Celtic compositions also, taking their blend of Celtic rock n rock into the 21st century!

Forget everything you’ve ever thought you knew about Celtic rock bands, because Melbourne-based outfit, Claymore, defies all expectations. This enigmatic band of multi-instrumentalists not only manages to combine traditional elements of Celtic music, but they take that passion and soul and rock it right into the 21st century. Few bands can pull off the sensitive task of re-educating the traditional realm into the modern day, but that’s something of a specialty for Claymore. Not only that, but they manage to write beautiful original Celtic compositions, and even lend their style to some power rock classics, all with an Irish and Scottish twist.

“Melbourne outfit Claymore are a unique band within the Australian music scene. Drawing on generations of Irish and Scottish folk tradition, Claymore’s biggest strength lies in their ability to blend it with contemporary sounds, forging a band like no other .From the world’s largest Celtic music event, Festival Interceltique in France, to venues across the country and around the world, their reputation as a first-rate live act resonates wherever they go” – Cairns Post

Rose Bygrave trio

Info to come.

 

Rich Davies band

Info to come

 

Scott Cook (Canada)

Info to come

 

George Mann (USA)

George is a songwriter’s singer who would just as soon share stories and songs from the long history of folk music as sing his own songs! George has produced albums featuring such folk music legends as Utah Phillips, Pete Seeger and Tom Paxton, and produced national tours of the US and Australia in honor of the Almanac Singers (2013) and Joe Hill (2015). George released his newest CD “This Chain” in October 2023 and toured folk clubs and festivals in Australia. He is producing a CD for release in August 2024 with Si Kahn to honor Si on his 80th birthday.

 

Kris Mizzi (Vic)

“A VOICE THAT MOVES HEARTS”

Kris will also be performing with Greg Champion and Rod McCormack.

Greg Champion (Vic)

came to notice in the Eighties on ABC radio with the song I Made a 100 In The Backyard At Mum’s.  Now he’s released over 30 CDs, and won a few gongs in the VMI category: ‘Vaguely Minor Identity’.  Champs has been a member of institutional ABC radio programme The Coodabeen Champions for 36 years. Greg grew up in the Hectorville Home For The Visually Unpleasant, and nowadays does guest speaking, where he’s classified as a De-Motivational Speaker. Forging his own distinctive path through the Australian musical landscape, it’s been said of Champs that he has contributed to the fabric of Australian culture, as is evidenced by the Country-Folk albums he’s released since 2000. These albums explore with depth and tenderness what it means to be Australian.

Greg will do shows with Jane Saunders and Margie Russell and will also be getting on stage with Kris Mizzi, Rod McCormack and anyone else who will have him!

 

Colin Buchanan

Colin has won ten Golden Guitar Australian Country Music Awards^[1] and has written songs with Lee Kernaghan, Adam Brand and Troy Cassar-Daley. His song “Hat Town”, written with Lee Kernaghan, won an APRA Award, while his Christmas album, recorded with Greg Champion, has become an Australian classic^{[citation needed]}, in particular his “Aussie Jingle Bells“, now a staple at school end-of-year concerts^{[citation needed]}. He was nominated for four ARIA Awards in 1993 for Best Country Album for Hard Times (lost to Lee Kernaghan for The Outback Club), in 1994 for Best Children’s Album for I Want My Mummy (lost to Mic Conway for Whoopee), in 1998 for Best Country Album for Edge of the Kimberley (lost to Shanley Del for My Own Sweet Time) and in 2013 for Best Comedy Release for The TGIF Songs of Colin Buchanan (lost to Tom & Alex for The Bits We’re Least Ashamed of).^{[citation needed]}

Colin was a regular presenter on ABC TV’s Play School from 1992 to 1999,^[2] when the program was revamped. More recently he appeared on Playhouse Disney, a co-production between Australia’s Seven Network and Disney Channel. He appeared with Monica Trapaga each year representing Seven and Disney on Carols in the Domain. (Colin Buchanan (musician) – Wikipedia)

The Sweet Sorrows (Ireland)

Based in Co. Wexford, Ireland, The Sweet Sorrows are veteran Irish singer-songwriter Sammy Horner and his Australian wife Kylie. They globally tour their acoustic/folk/Americana music delighting audiences with their humour and vocal harmonies. Sammy’s guitar and bodhran is matched by Kylie’s whistles, accordion and melodica. An evening with The Sweet Sorrows always promises to be highly entertaining, provocative and moving. Their intimacy, transparency and strength of passion on stage has won them many fans.

“Touching, humorous and a lot of charm – thank you for a wonderful evening!”  ( TOPOFF Restaurant and Kulturzentrum, Switzerland)

“The Sweet Sorrows bring Celtic charm and edge together with soft harmonies to create an Americana/Celtic/Roots fusion.” — CrossRhythms UK

 

The Ugly Uncles (Vic)

The Ugly Uncles was born out of a desire of a dissolute bunch of chancers to see if it is possible to have as much fun on-stage as the audience does off. With Uncle Derek Guille at the lead, the Uncles “uncle” just about everything from jug, jazz, rock and country blues, to calypso, swing, folk and ceili. The Ugly Uncles are Australia’s foremost (and possibly only) exponents of Alt-Jug. They are eclectic (to say the least) and the banter between songs is often more so.

 

The Fiddle Chicks (SA),

Dee Trewartha and Emma Luker are an original folk duo from Adelaide. After nearly twenty years of performing their original songs and tunes, and having way too much fun along the way, The Fiddle Chicks are still going strong. You will be captivated, as Emma and Dee create a unique and energetic sound as their fiddles, voice and stomp boxes drift through the valley. Emma will also be performing with Eric Bogle.

 

Paul Wookey (Vic)

Paul is one of a very small handful of extremely talented musicians who were the key members of Melbourne’s and Australia’s acoustic (called ‘Roots’ or ‘Americana’ these days) music scene in the late 1970s, and one of the only ones who has stayed there full time through the four decades that have followed, and he is now singing and playing even better than he ever did, a true master of his craft. It is hard to put a label on Paul’s music: there’s Country, Blues, Folk, Bluegrass, etc.. Better perhaps to look at his influences and heroes, from Doc Watson to Eric Clapton, from Woody Guthrie to Bob Dylan, to Clarence White, The Byrds, The Beatles..

 

Marillia Homes (UK & Aust)

Marilla is a woman of many talents. She is a classically trained singer, teacher and performer (MMusPerf), who loves performing across a range of genres, including folk, jazz, opera, oratoria and music theatre, and also writes her own songs and creates vocal improvisations. She is half of acapella duo Steel Songbirds, lead singer with Marilla Homes and the Housemen, and regular collaborator with Andrew Clermont’s International Supper Club. She has sung with Victorian Opera, Melbourne City Opera, Eastern Metropolitan Opera, Diamond Valley Singers, Melbourne Capella, Miscellany Ensemble, Preston Symphony Orchestra, and many others. Born and raised in Australia and now happily living in Sheffield, UK, Marilla is also a mixed modality therapist, with decades of knowledge and experience in remedial massage, Feldenkrais Method and Vodder Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). She offers 1:1 sessions and group classes, as well as workshops. These are regularly in Sheffield, and also on tour in Australia, and at festivals. Marilla is passionate about helping people feel better about themselves, and empowering people through knowledge, education and awareness. She is an engaging teacher and educator, and has a wealth of knowledge and experience. As a way of supporting the planet and environment as well as our own health and wellbeing, Marilla is an independent consultant and leader for Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic, a UK based company providing ethical, organic health and skincare, and she is an affiliate of The Conscious Way, selling organic horse and dog wash.

 

The Nightingales (Claire Patti, Maria Forde, Tracey Roberts) (Vic)

These three exceptionally talented singers, songwriters and musicians are powerhouses within Australia’s music scene. With a wealth of experience and album releases between them, performing both as soloists and within a variety of musical groups across multiple genres including folk, jazz and Celtic music, they are a formidable combination comprising vocals, harp, guitar, piano and more.  Together, their voices are dynamic and captivating, their meaningful songs are beautifully constructed and arranged, and their harmonies and musical arrangements are simply exquisite.  An unmissable act.

 

 

The Royal High Jinx (Vic)

Melbourne’s mesmerising contemporary world music band ‘The Royal High Jinx’ have burst onto Australian festival stages with originality, virtuosity and theatricality. Their songs and tunes are inspired by European traditions, peppered with Gypsy Jazz, Latin Balkan & Swing grooves with a pinch of Folk Cabaret. Prior to 2020, The Royal High Jinx excited and ignited European audiences on their “Gone Gone Gone” Germany Tour and have performed at major festivals across Australia and internationally. Having released 3 exciting albums, The Royal High Jinx have been described as the “Balkan Abba” for their catchy songs and glamourous show. Join a world of celebration and thrills as you sing along with and dance to Melbourne’s most colourful festival band.

Sarah and Silas also perform with The Bushwackers.

 

Pete Titchener (SA)

A familiar name perhaps around the Australian folk scene, due largely to his work with Colcannon, Munro O’Callaghan Titchener and the great man himself, Eric Bogle. However, it’s now time to unleash the solo artist that has been lying dormant for all those years. Audiences can expect a well-balanced mix of self-penned, thoughtful and humorous songs mixed with dubious witty banter. (Whether they actually GET that is another matter altogether). Pete is one of those storytellers who understands the delicate balance of humour and pathos – a performer who commands a room and deftly leads you through the twists and turns of a good joke and an even better folk song. In the great folk tradition of performers like Vin Garbutt, Pete spins a bloody good yarn. He disarms you with a joke, sucker-punches you in the emotional breadbasket, and then placates you with some fine singing and playing.

Pete will also be performing with Eric Bogle.

Out of Hand (Vic)

Self-described “moody” contemporary Celtic band, Out of Hand are two sets of siblings who discovered a shared passion in the music of their Celtic heritage. Toe-tapping tunes and lilting melodies, they blend both traditional music with original songs and sets. Performers Sadie (fiddle/vocals/guitar), Caleb (fiddle), Josh (guitar/vocals), Daniel (bass) and Charlie (bodhran/vocals/trombone) are all accomplished young musicians in their own rights. Caleb was elected ‘Face of the Festival’ for the National Celtic Festival 2019 and awarded a scholarship with Feis Ros in Scotland. Sadie was runner-up ‘Youth Folk Artist of the Year’ by the Australian Folk Alliance in 2021 and has over 30 festival appearances as a solo artist. Daniel and Josh both perform alongside their brother Caleb in the Melbourne Scottish Fiddlers Club and all five members are classically trained with Daniel and Sadie having played in the Melbourne Youth Orchestra. Together, the group has played a number of festivals and venues and have collected over 1.3M views on TikTok. With 4/5 living in Melbourne and 1/5 in Sydney, exciting things are afoot for Out of Hand in the years to come.

At last year’s Maldon Folk Festival, the Troubadour Foundation awarded them money to go towards recording a new album for the best up and coming youth group.

 

The Tequila Mockingbirds

Masters of Cowboy Swing are Back in the Saddle! For years, the land has suffered—a drought not of rain, but of fine swinging cowboy music. The tumbleweeds have been listless, the honky-tonks eerily silent, and dance floors emptier than a snake oil salesman’s promises. But fear not, good people! A call went out to the farthest reaches of the state, echoing across prairie and canyon, and the legendary Tequila Mockingbirds have answered. After a mysterious and possibly tequila-related hiatus, the Mockingbirds have dusted off their instruments, pried their outfits out of mothballs, and unearthed setlists written in a language only decipherable with a steel guitar and a fiddle. The result? A sonic spectacle so potent, it’s been known to make cacti sway, coyotes harmonize, and even the most two-left-footed cowpoke attempt a Texas two-step. Prepare your ears, your eyes, and what’s left of your self-control—the auditory, visual, and intellectual experience of a lifetime is upon us. The Tequila Mockingbirds are back, and they’re bringing swing, swagger, and possibly a few overdue bar tabs. Strap in, folks—it’s gonna be one hell of a ride!

 

Hannah Schmidli (Vic)

Dynamic Victorian singer-songwriter Hannah Schmidli returns to Maldon along with her trademark golden telecaster and backing band in tow. For this 2018 Roddy Read Memorial Song Writing Award Winner, performing at Maldon is like a homecoming, having grown up attending, performing and being influenced by this wonderful festival. At the age of 24, Hannah already has an impressive list of festival and venue performances, including regular appearances at the Paris Cat in Melbourne and has written, recorded, co-produced and released two albums and an EP to date. Her gorgeous lyricism and deep audience connection make for stunning solo and full-band performances. Hannah has such a moving and powerful presence with her incredible voice, insightful masterful songwriting and a vulnerability she brings to the stage. As she weaves images through her music, she draws you in, young and old alike, taking everyone on a journey through song

Joe Quinn (Scotland)

Joe’s music is a testament to decades of dedication and passion, shaped by an intricate fingerpicking style that draws deeply from the world’s diverse folk traditions. This unique blend infuses his work with a distinctive energy and depth, reflecting the richness of these influences. His journey began on the bustling streets of Glasgow and continued through the sun-soaked towns of Spain, where his passion for music truly blossomed. With his guitar as a constant companion, he immersed himself in the melodies and rhythms of Europe, which have shaped his sound and infused his music with a timeless, worldly spirit.

Emily Pritchard – 2024 Roddy Read winner

With effortless and captivating charm, Emily Jane Pritchard steps out as Naarm’s newest Indie Folk darling. The Mornington Peninsula-based songwriter pens intricate melodies and lyrics that linger in the heart and mind long after the show has finished. Appearing at the iconic Maldon Folk Festival in 2024, Pritchard’s artistry was celebrated when she took out the Roddy Read Songwriters Award, further cementing her place as a rising voice in the indie folk scene. With early influences like The Cranberries, No Doubt, and Nirvana, Pritchard’s voice travels seamlessly between heartachingly sweet and ruggedly raw, sending sways and swoons throughout audiences young and old. While having drawn complementary comparisons to Julia Jacklin and Lucy Dacus, Pritchard brings a fresh, distinct voice to the scene with her debut EP, Never Ending Holiday. Pritchard describes this body of work as a product of “doubts conquered, artistic renewal, and the beautiful chaos of life.” Her songs explore honest moments of relationship reflection: an apology letter to an ex, the insecurity pangs of unanswered texts, the melancholy of trouble in paradise, and the overflowing joy of being the cool auntie to a tiny twirling dancer. Now, as Pritchard shares her music with growing audiences, anticipation builds for her unforgettable debut EP, Never Ending Holiday, due for release in 2025.

Rob Barratt (UK)

Rob is a brain-tickling, word-mangling comic poet, humourist and singer from the UK who combines clever word play, verse and song with satire, parody and audience participation, covering such important topics as squid, data-driven education, his relationship with potatoes and distressed furniture but beneath the humour there lurk serious issues. In recent years Rob has appeared at folk, literature and arts festivals all over the British Isles and Australia. “This is not only clever but I think it’s very funny” (Mike Harding) “Rob revels in wily wordplay & rogue rhyming but his conceits & surrealist forays into the imagination take the ruddy biscuit.”

 

Karlo Acinue (Vic)

Karlo returns to Maldon after a triumphant debut in 2023. After performing in his first ever festival, he has since been a familiar voice in Melbourne’s folk music scene. Karlo is heavily influenced by the 70s folk era, so listeners can expect superb guitar finger picking and a calming baritone voice from his heartfelt and meaningful songs.

 

 

 

Saoirse (Vic)

Since coming together in 2007 Saoirse have firmly established themselves as one of Australia’s premier Celtic bands. With performances throughout Australia, Port Fairy, National folk festival, National Celtic festival, Speigletent, and appearances in Ireland and Europe (Festival Interqueltic) this world class band delighted their audience with heart reading ballads and spirited tunes! Saoirse have released 4 cds and received multiple awards for their music. The band are excited to be bringing some new music and new talent to 2025!

 

Hireath (Vic)

Hiraeth are a musical trio who perform songs with a strong Welsh influence as well as songs from other Celtic nations. Welsh born Stephen Lynn has a strong tenor voice and sang for many years with the Victorian Welsh Choir. His daughter Sarah Lynn has captivated audiences at many Celtic Folk festivals around Australia, and in 2016 won “Celtic Female Artist of the Year” at the Australian Celtic Music Awards. Phil Lester completes the trio with his strong vocals and rich guitar, drawing on his diverse experience as a performer of folk and country rock. Stephen and Phil’s powerful voices contrast beautifully with Sarah’s sweet tones in traditional songs, using both Welsh and English lyrics. Hiraeth’s music is evocative with haunting melody and complex harmonies weaving through voice and guitar.

Jane Thompson & James Rigby (Vic)

Jane & James are two of Australia’s most experienced singers and community singing leaders.
Concerts, choirs & workshops full of warmth, insight and heart.

 

 

Cate Taylor (Vic)

Cate is an award-winning, indie-folk singer songwriter from Melbourne. Her music is described as rich, natural and grounded in heartfelt, spacious lyrics with a performance style that is authentic and engaging. Cate released her debut album, Red Dirt in 2020 and is returning to the studio for album number 2 in 2023. “Cate Taylor presents honest, reflective songs that paint a picture of our place in the environment. A record for any season and mood, evident during a live to air appearance for Music Matters, on 3CR Community Radio, February 2020.”
Joe Malignaggi 3CR Radio
“Cate’s work is an important contribution to the folk music output of Melbourne. Her songs always come from the heart and contain important messages for the themes of our time.” – Jason Bunn, violin/viola, Orchestra Victoria

 

Dodsworth family

Headed by Graham Dodsworth, the Dodsworth Clan, individual performers in their own right, conspire collectively to bring a dynamic mix of Australian, Celtic, UK and original music to the unsuspecting ears of anybody within earshot.

 

Bruce Watson (Vic)

Joyful, thought provoking, totally engaging, Bruce Watson is an icon of the Australian folk music scene and a major songwriter and performer. He has toured internationally, won a swag of awards and had his songs covered by many artists. Bruce’s music tells stories and reflects life, often with a surprising twist and a quirky sense of humour. Not just another songwriter! “An Australian folk hero!” (The Boite). “The best songwriter I have seen in a long time.” (Eric Bogle)

 

 

Harpers Bizarre (Vic)

A long-time favourite of the Maldon Folk Festival, this group meets monthly to play beautiful music and of course, to share epicurean delights. Their music includes tunes from the Celtic countries as well as an exciting Latin based repertoire and individual compositions. Festive hand-crafted felt hats, and harps made from unique Australian timbers, are well known signatures of the group. Each year, in the winter months, Harpers Bizarre runs a  music camp at Cave Hill Creek Recreation Centre, near Beaufort central Victoria, promoting and encouraging interest in Harp Culture. Harp maestro Andy Rigby is the group’s Musical Director and fashions many of the harps in his Workshop, just down the road in Malmsbury. Check out some of Andy’s exquisite instruments at the Maldon Folk Festival ‘Instrument Makers Exhibition’ on Saturday and Sunday of the Festival.

 

Jeanette Gillespie & Duncan Brown (Vic)

Jeanette and Duncan will lead the concert as they have in previous years, and involve other festival artists and friends. Possible participants may include any agreeable festival guests who may be “shanghaied” during the festival!

 

 

 

 

Brewers Own Bush Band

How we love this Family dance, with children and families, and all that come and dance with us, year on year! I have lost count of how many times I have joined with our band for the Family Bush Dance here at Maldon Folk Festival!

The Brewers Own Bush Band is honoured to have the opportunity to be invited to play again for this, the 50th festival!

We will present a fun filled music/dancing session for everyone! “Littlies, kids, mums, dads, grans, pa’s, rellies, and anyone else who loves music, a good laugh, fun, balloons & some dancing for exercise!

You, the dancers make this such a special event for us all! We welcome you as our dance family, so let’s make this dance one to remember!! The Brewers Own Bush Band: Formed in 1978, playing dances now for over 40 years and into the future!!

We thank you for the opportunity to be part of the Maldon fabric and love you all.

” You are the Folk enjoying the dancing we enjoy.”

 

Marty Mulholland (Vic)

It’s been quite a few years now since we were last able to see Marty on stage reciting some of his unique Australian bush ballads. The Teller of Tales from Tarrengower, (Martin Mulholland), a Maldon local returns this year to the Maldon Folk Festival and will be able to offer us a blend of verse penned by some of this country’s finer lyricists as well as his own original compositions. Martin is looking forward to reciting his poems and being on stage alongside some of Australia’s quality poets and storytellers. He also looks forward to discovering new up and coming poets similar to others who have made an impression during previous Maldon Folk Festivals.

 

The Rhymer from Ryde (NSW)

“The Rhymer from Ryde” just can’t get enough of Bush Poetry and rhyming verse. When he’s not writing it, learning it or performing it he’s organising poetry events like the Victorian Bush Poetry Championships (2024) or the 10th Anniversary of his “Rhymers Roundup” shows (held at the Tamworth Country Music Festival). Other than that he likes to extend a helping hand to his fellow poets by presenting workshops to help them develop their skills. On stage he’s a dynamic ‘dynamo’ of activity as he brings modern, classical and original verse to life through his theatrical and engaging performances. A real ‘live-wire’ act, make sure you don’t miss the “Rhymer” at this year’s event..

 

Noel Bull

Noel aka ‘The Raging Bull’ named because of his antics on stage, performs humourous and serious bush poetry. He is a lovable larrikin who has lots of tales, associated with working in the outback in his younger days, to share with you.

Margaret Crichton (Vic)

Festival Choir – Always wondered what it feels like to be onstage? Join the Festival choir and find out! you just need to enjoy singing to have a go. Your groupies can come and watch as we sing two songs in harmony at one of the main venues. Come and have some fun. No experience necessary. Shower singers welcome!

 

 

 

 

Bush Sessions (ACT)

Bush Sessions recreate the music of Australian Bush gatherings from the 19th and early 20th century. Music played on verandas, in lounges and in memorial halls. The music has been collected from traditional players, the men and women who made music in the bush. Tunes handed down through families, learnt from neighbours, friends and broadsheets. These are participation sessions. We provide printed music, welcome ear players also and play at a pace which encourages joining in. Please bring your instrument and play through some great toe tapping tunes in traditional dance style.

Bighties Revenge (ACT)

Bighties Revenge are members of Blighties Revenge; a Canberra based band lead by Jackie Luke and Greg Wilson. Blighties Revenge specialise in modern and traditional, session and dance music from England. The Blighties meet regularly with friends to play an eclectic tune mix, ranging from the Playford era through to modern compositions. Discovered during lockdown zoom sessions, 3/2 hornpipes add interest and fun to their repertoire. Join in and share the music.

 

 

Campbell the Swaggie (everywhere)

The only fair dinkum reciter of Aussie Bush Poetry who doubles as the last Australian swagman. Everyone knows Campbell, from govt house in Darwin, right down the east coast to the Sunday market in leafy Camberwell, and every festival and market in between. Keeping the Spirit of Waltzing Matilda (carrying the swag) and mate ship policy alive. By raising Funds towards helpingpremature and chronically ill children via financing the Royal Flying doctors and emergency relief appeals. Verses recited are kaleidoscope of my travels and experiences, Aboriginal Dreamtime stories and tales of the Land. The poems reflect the heritage pillars of Australia.Check out The Legend of Campbell the Swaggie by Kevin McCarthy’s Crocodile Country  and an interview while he was staying in Maldon during most of 2020 until after Easter 2021.

Michael the Balloonologist (Vic)

Michael the Balloonologist has been a fixture at festivals, fetes, fairs and functions for over twenty- five years. From single balloon animals to multi-balloon creations Michael manages to enthral his audience whether they are 2 or 102. Dogs, bears, flowers and fancy hats flow freely from his fingers. Come and claim a colourful creation – and yes, he does parties.

 

Richard Leitch – bio to come

 

 

Emu Creek Bush Band and Friends – Gay Charmers and Friends (Vic)

Long time stalwarts of the Maldon Folk Festival, the Emu Creek Bush Band, will once again be providing the toe tapping opening dance of this year’s festival as they have done for many years. Despite the passing of their leader Peter Ellis OAM the band he nurtured over thirty or more years will continue to provide the best of bush dancing. Bring the kids and be prepared for a fun filled evening. You won’t be disappointed. The Bush Concert commences with entertainment from the band but incorporates items from the floor and so the audience end up entertaining the band!

 

The Britannia Morris (Vic)

Surely you know us already? The dancers in the streets? With the wavy hankies and clashing sticks? The white uniforms and live melodeon music? The ones who have been engaging audiences at Maldon for over 20 years?

Well, if you don’t know us by now, you just haven’t been paying attention!

 

 

The Connected Circus (Vic)

This colourful and family friendly Circus Space will be running from 11am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. There is a Circus Space for participants to explore a range of props with assistance from instructors. These props include Hula hoops, Pois, Spinning plates, Rolla Bollas and Flowerstix. Also in the grassy outdoor space there will also be games like Finska, Bocce and Giant Jenga. Undercover in the Rotunda there is an Art Space for children to draw, sketch and do origami and a Games Space with all sorts of fun board games for all ages.

The Connected Circus runs their mobile entertainment space at festivals and events all over Victoria. We also facilitate a wide range of school programs and workshops in Central Victoria, helping to improve the wellbeing of children and adults using creativity and movement.

Rudy the Music Man (Vic)

In past Maldon Folk Festival appearances Rudy the One Man Band has wandered along main street and entertained audiences where he’s found them. For over 30 years Rudy has trudged many miles carrying around his 25kg one man band rig of drum, monkeys, gorillas and numerous musical instruments. Unfortunately, Rudy’s roving days are over. This septuagenarian is less ambulant but no less entertaining singing and playing his Harmonica, Pan Pipes, Flex-A-Tone, Trombone, Concertina, Didgeridoo, Banjo, Mandolin, Guitar, Accordion, Djembe & Hi Hat. Rudy entertains from the wealth of songs and instrumentals he has acquired from years of busking at markets and festivals, playing in bush bands and appearing on Red Faces and Australia’s Got Talent. Regaling Pre-School children to adults in Aged Care Facilities and Hospices, Rudy is happiest bringing a smile to the faces of everyone he encounters