Artists
Rouge Traders
Sunday 26 July
12.15 pm - 1.30 pm
Crescent St Stage
Rogue Traders is an iconic force in Australian electro-dance, pop-rock, renowned for injecting massive rock energy into pulsating electronic anthems.
Formed in 2000 by UK-born DJs and producers James Ash and Steve Davis, the band cemented their legendary status with the addition of powerhouse vocalist Natalie Bassingthwaighte in 2004, alongside Time Henwood (guitar) and Cameron McGlinchey (drums).
Their explosive sound delivered a string of hits, including seven Top 20 singles on the ARIA chart - such as 'Watching You', 'Way to Go!', and the APRA Award-winning 'In Love Again'.
The band's breakout single, 'Voodoo Child', dominated charts internationally, peaking at #3 on the UK Singles Chart and #4 in Australia.
After a celebrated reunion in 2025 that brought the classic line up back to the stage, the Rouge Traders fire has never been brighter, and we can't wait to see them light up the stage as our headline act this Childers Festival!
Joel Fenton
Saturday 25 July
3 - 3.30 pm
Crescent St Stage
Joel Fenton has been entertaining audiences worldwide for over 25 years with insane circus stunts, incredible magic and side-splitting comedy.
A born showman, Joel is a hit with people of all ages. His insane skills include circus tricks with chainsaws, knives, golf clubs, toilet seats and industrial leaf blowers.
He hilariously climbs inside giant yellow balloons and balances ten feet in the air on unicycles and ladders. Also catch him roving the crowd throughout the birthday bash!
Hot Potato Band
Saturday 25 July
4.45 - 6 pm
Crescent St Stage
Also catch them on Sunday roving through the festival!
Hot Potato Band's larger-than-life brass collective is a breath of fresh air with a focus on setting the bar for energetic and interactive musical performances.
With three studio albums under their belts, they continue to explore the sonic possibilities of acoustic instrumentation. Their music transcends genres, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
Megan Terry
Sunday 26 July
9 am - 12 pm
Courthouse
Although classically trained as a pianist, Meg has a soft spot for jazz, folk and pop.
She crafts a soulful, warm sound, bringing both reimagined classics and lesser-known gems to life.
Her performances are intimate, versatile, and heartfelt as she switches effortlessly between vocals, guitar and piano.
Jon Vea Vea
Sunday 26 July
12 - 3 pm
NAB Stage
Jon Vea Vea showcases Aussie songs and classic hits, as well as his own original compositions inspired by his cultural heritage.
As a professional musician for 40 years, he is a well-known and much loved entertainer and story-teller.
Andrea Kirwin
Sunday 26 July
9 - 10 am
Crescent St Stage
Andrea Kirwin is an Australian-Fijian Singer-songwriter based on the Sunshine Coast who has been performing at Folk Festivals since 2008 and has released five independent albums under her own independent record label, Peace Run Records.
With a warm and welcoming stage presence, deeply soulful sound and a knack for storytelling, Andrea's live performances are a joy to experience.
Killer Queen
Sunday 26 July
10.15 - 11.30 am
Crescent St Stage
The Killer Queen Experience is Australia’s leading tribute to Queen, delivering a high energy show packed with the band’s greatest hits including Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions and many more.
Fronted by internationally recognised Freddie Mercury impersonator John Blunt the group has toured the UK, Europe, Asia, India and beyond, performing over 1,000 shows across 10+ countries.
Sneaky Sound System
Saturday 25 July
6.30 - 8 pm
Crescent St Stage
It was back in 2004 when Miss Connie and producer/DJ Angus McDonald started making beautiful music together.
They have created a spectacular salvo of chart topping hits including UFO, Pictures and I Love It - winning ARIA Awards for Breakthrough Artist and Best Dance Release, the first of 14 nominations to date.
In 2025, Sneaky Sound System was delighted to partner again with Cr2 to release Shiver, a shimmering, compelling showcase of Connie's vocals and Angus's production mastery.
Sneaky Sound System remain as in-demand as ever, playing sold-out headline shows and festivals around the country, New Zealand and into Asia.
Their more recent soundtracks are as beloved by audiences as their older hits, a testament to their enduring popularity and ability to create tunes that start the party and keep it going.
Ryan Giles Band
Sunday 26 July
1.45 - 3 pm
Crescent St Stage
Ryan Giles Band delivers a groove-driven blend of roots, blues, soul, funk and reggae, led by songwriter Ryan Giles.
Known for high-energy live shows and strong musicianship, recently opening for artists like Ross Wilson, The Black Sorrows and Kate Ceberano.
Also catch Ryan on the NAB stage from 9 am - 12 pm
Derek F Smith
Sunday 26 July
9 - 10 am
The Highway Stage
Derek F. Smith is an indie folk rock artist from the Fraser Coast, known for raw, high-energy acoustic performances.
Touring nationally with his young family, Derek has built a reputation for holding a room with nothing more than a guitar, a voice, and songs that land.
Ben Evolent
Sunday 26 July
10 - 11 am
The Highway Stage
A musician of integrity and acclaim, songwriter Ben Evolent’s folk-alt-meets-country-blues sound has become a mainstay on stages and festivals throughout the country over the past 15 years.
Across his two EPs and debut Album ‘Wanderous’ Ben Evolent has developed a ragged and lively style deeply rooted in the spirit of song.
Bundaberg Voice Collective
Sunday 26 July
11 am - 12 pm
The Highway Stage
The BVC brings together over 70 voices from across the region with members aged 21 to 90. It's a choir built on something special
Known for their big sound and vibrant performances, the BVC will be delivering all your favourites and encourage you to sing along!
Stella Hutchins
Sunday 26 July
12 - 1 pm
The Highway Stage
Stella Hutchins is a proud Bundaberg singer and performer, known for her warm, relaxed acoustic style and unique reinterpretations of classic pop hits from the 70s to now.
She brings a blend of jazz and indie influences, creating a fresh, soulful twist to well-loved songs.
Marah Leigh
Sunday 26 July
1 - 2 pm
The Highway Stage
Marah Leigh is a Bundaberg born and bred singer, songwriter and guitarist. Her emotive power house voice is a beautifully balanced blend of soul and indie pop.
As a cover artist for live events she acoustically covers songs from the 70s, 80s, 90s and 2000s with her guitar and feet percussion tantalising your earbuds with her own unique take on each song.
Mixtape Duo
Sunday 26 July
12 - 3 pm
Courthouse
Mixtape is an acoustic duo bringing a fresh energy to songs you know and love across various genres and generations.
The project pairs the powerhouse vocals of singer-songwriter Laylah Starr with the impactful, dynamic guitar work of Liam Haase. Together they create a warm, unique sound perfect for live music lovers.
Miss Lee
Sunday 26 July
2 - 3 pm
The Highway Stage
Miss Lee is a local Wide Bay musician specialising in live music from timeless classics to contemporary favourites.
Her repertoire spans over a century of sound, delivered with warmth, versatility, and a natural connection to every audience.
Caledonian Pipe Band
Sunday 26 July
9 - 3 pm
Roving entertainment
The Bundaberg Caledonian Pipe Band is the oldest piping band in Queensland, established in 1884. Catch them marching proudly through the streets in their Ancient Sutherland kilts.
They are a community bagpipe band who supply music for street marches, sporting and charity events, ceremonial and memorial occasions and a Childers Festival favourite!
Raw Ordio
Saturday 25 July
2 - 3 pm
Crescent St Stage
Influenced through a wide range of musical genres and a passion for house music, Raw Ordio encapsulates their own signature sound of electronic music.
DJ/Producer Brett G, is joined by the musical talents of Damian on percussion and Harry on sax.
Selling out shows around Queensland, and captivating audiences with their live performances, Raw Ordio delivers an innovative immersive experience in showmanship and musical wizardry. You won't want to miss their energetic dance anthems as they grace the Childers Festival stage.
Bubbles + Glitter Fairies
Sunday 25 July +
Sunday 26 July
Roving entertainment
Add a touch of sparkle and bubbles to your day with our Glitter Fairies!
Wandering through the festival, they’ll be spreading magic with shimmering face and hair glitter, playful interactions and plenty of photo-worthy moments. A fun, colourful magical experience for all ages.
Watch in delight as bubbles of all shapes and sizes catch the light, captivating kids and adults alike. Moving through the crowd, this playful performer brings a sense of magic and joy to the 30th birthday celebrations.
Baylando Dance Troupe
Sunday 26 July
9 am - 3 pm
Roving entertainment
Keep an eye out for Baylando as they roam the Childers Festival, bringing vibrant beats and infectious energy to the streets. This dynamic collective thrives on movement, popping up throughout the festival with lively rhythms that draw crowds in and get everyone swaying along.
Blending global influences with a strong percussive drive, Baylando creates an irresistible soundtrack for festivalgoers on the move. Their roving performances are all about connection—breaking down barriers between performers and audience as they weave through the crowd.
Fiesta Creations
Sunday 25 July +
Sunday 26 July
Roving entertainment
Gliding through the streets above the crowds in dazzling colour the famous Childers Festival stilt walkers are hard to miss.
These eye-catching performers bring playful energy, striking costumes and spontaneous moments of fun to every corner of the festival.
Be sure to look up as they wander by offering smiles, surprises and fantastic photo opportunities as part of the festival.
Birthday party games
Saturday 25 July
3.30 - 4 pm
Crescent Street Stage
What birthday party is complete without party games?
Russ Krause is turning Crescent Street into the ultimate playground with crowd games, big laughs and full‑audience fun at Crescent Street Presents: Childers Festival 30th Birthday Bash.
Fun for kids of all ages whether you’re eight or eighty, this is your chance to let loose and help celebrate 30 years of the Childers Festival in true birthday‑bash style with pass the parcel with a twist, a wildly entertaining egg and spoon race and many more!
Dance workshop
Saturday 25 July
4 - 4.30 pm
Crescent Street Stage
Celebrate 30 years of Childers Festival with an inclusive, high‑energy dance workshop led by Hannah Reed from Baylando.
An all in, all-ages dance party freestyle workshop led by local dance instructor Hannah, known for her vibrant Latin style. A familiar face of the festival, she brings the energy each year as a samba dancer roving with the band now inviting everyone to jump in and bust a groove to your favourite old school party tracks.
Open to everyone, this joyful session invites festival‑goers of all ages and experience levels to move, groove and celebrate together. No experience needed just bring your curiosity and birthday spirit!
Divina Trio and Suellen Cusack
Saturday 25 July
2 - 4 pm
Opera by the Lake
This year’s concert features acclaimed soprano Suellen Cusack joined by the sensational Divina Trio - the operatic ensemble known for their bold, modern approach to classical performance.
Featuring the voice of Laura Coutts among its members, Divina have built an international reputation for dynamic crossover performances, appearing on stages from London’s West End live in Trafalgar Square and intimate concert halls across Europe, to major festivals and broadcast events worldwide.
Their style blends operatic tradition with contemporary energy, delivering performances that are both technically refined and emotionally engaging.
Together with Suellen Cusack’s expressive soprano and commanding stage presence the program brings a mix of solo, duet, and ensemble works that span opera, musical theatre and crossover favourites.
Expect soaring melodies, powerful harmonies, and moments of genuine connection between artists and audience.
Attractions
Nita Rosher, Community Matters, 2026, Drypoint, 25 x 30cm
Nita Rosher, Community Matters, 2026, Drypoint, 25 x 30cm
Childers Sketchbook with Nita Rosher
Develop a collection of sketches, then refine and enhance them using watercolour washes and coloured pencils as you overlook the festival with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
Join artist Nita Rosher (Telling Stories) for Childers Sketchbook, a dynamic, people-focused drawing workshop set against the vibrant backdrop of the Childers Multicultural Festival.
Working in the CBD, you’ll sketch from life, observing fleeting gestures and interactions. Through a series of engaging exercises, Nita will guide you in observational drawing, helping you loosen up, work quickly, and respond intuitively to your surroundings.
Thursday 23 July
10 am - 12 pm
Childers Arts Space
$30 per person
Ages: 12 +
Childers Firehouse Potters
Roll up your sleeves and get gloriously grubby with Firehouse Potters! Our DIY clay seed ball station is hands‑on, smile‑inducing fun for tiny humans and grown‑ups alike.
Seed balls are little bundles of magic: seeds, nutrients, and clay rolled into one. Think of them as tiny pop‑up greenhouses. When the rain comes, the clay softens and—boom!—nature gets to work.
Seed balls are little bundles of magic: seeds, nutrients, and clay rolled into one. Think of them as tiny pop‑up greenhouses. When the rain comes, the clay softens and—boom!—nature gets to work.
Sunday 26 July
9 am - 3 pm
Churchill St, Childers
FREE EVENT
Childers Festival Community Arts Wall
See what your unique creativity and the community can make together. This Art Wall activity transforms everyday people into co-creators, through exploration and spontaneous engagement.
See the mural evolve in real time as a vibrant living canvas of imagination and collaboration through immersive, inclusive art.
This is a relaxed drop-in activity with no artistic experience needed. It is accessible, welcoming, and joyful, as every participant chooses their own individual space to contribute at their own pace.
Sunday 26 July
9 am - 3 pm
Stall 72, The Palace Laneway
FREE EVENT
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Built in 1941, Sacred Heart Catholic Church is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture, with its intricate design and serene atmosphere offering a peaceful retreat for visitors.
The land beside the Church was once home to a convent and school established by the Sisters of St Joseph, who had been serving the Childers community since 1926.
Nestled at the corner of Churchill and Stewart Streets, the Sacred Heart Catholic Church will be open to festival visitors, providing an opportunity to explore this historic landmark and reflect on its deep connection to the local community.
Thursday 24 July - Sunday 27 July
6 am - 6 pm
Churchill Street, Childers
FREE EVENT
Live at the Grand Hotel
Pseudo Echo are bringing Funky Town to the Grand Hotel Childers with a thrilling national tour, showcasing a dynamic six-piece line-up that promises to elevate the live experience to new heights.
The Ultimate Luke Combs Tribute Show is rolling into The Grand Hotel Childers Festival Weekend 2026! Hailed as as close as it gets to the real deal. These guys have been performing sold out shows all over the country!
Get your crew together! The Ultimate Luke Combs Tribute Show is rolling into The Grand Hotel Childers Festival Weekend 2026! Hailed as as close as it gets to the REAL DEAL. These guys have been performing SOLD OUT shows all over the country!
Pseudo Echo
Saturday 25 July 8.30 pm
Grand Hotel, Childers
The Ultimate Luke Combs Tribute Show
Friday 24 July 8.30 pm
Grand Hotel, Childers
The Perfectly Imperfect Collective
Step into The Perfectly Imperfect Collective at The Paragon Theatre, a vibrant creative marketplace where every item tells a story.
Explore a diverse selection of homemade jewellery, artisan wares, vintage collectibles and antique finds – alongside locally crafted gifts, art prints, stationery, and eco-friendly products.
Discover unique clothing, fashion accessories, and one-of-a-kind treasures, each crafted with care and supporting local artisans and sustainable practices. Whether you're seeking a special gift or a statement piece, you're sure to find something truly unique.
Thursday 23 July - Sunday 26 July
The Paragon Theatre, Childers
FREE ENTRY
Childers Art Gallery Shop + Chill Out Zone
Take a break from the crowds and head into the Childers Arts Space!
Right in the heart of the festival action, the onsite Gallery Shop offers unique products by talented local artists, as well as a beautifully curated selection of artistic retail goods.
There are Children's Gallery Trails for the younger festival goers, and a relaxed seating area on the expansive verandah offering a birds eye view of the street action below.
Thursday 23 July - Sunday 26 July
Childers Arts Space
FREE ENTRY
Childers Commemorative Installation Trail
Visit the Childers Art Space to experience newly relaunched Commemorative Installation Trail this Festival weekend.
Embedded throughout the building, the trail comprises of ten site-specific artworks first installed over twenty years ago, each telling a story about the building's architecture, character and the Childers community at its heart.
Each artwork has an information panel and a QR code which visitors can scan to hear artist Sam Di Mauro speak firsthand about the contents of each of the Commemorative Boxes.
Thursday 23 July - Sunday 26 July
Childers Arts Space
FREE ENTRY
The Old Pharmacy
Step back in time and discover The Old Pharmacy Museum located in the elegant Gaydon’s Building in the bustling main street of the heritage listed highway town of Childers.
The Old Pharmacy is a visitor attraction overflowing with a range of pharmaceutical displays and early medicines from the last century, local artwork and handmade souvenirs.
The Old Pharmacy is free to enter Thursday, Friday and Saturday, with tours of the dispensary just a cold coin donation per person on Sunday.
Saturday 25 July, 9 am - 2 pm
Sunday 26 July 9 am - 3 pm
Churchill Street
FREE ENTRY
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