Artists
DIESEL
Sunday 27 July
11.45 am - 1 pm
Crescent St Stage
Born in Fall River Massachusetts, the youngest of seven from a sax playing electronics technician father and a mother in nursing, Mark Lizotte aka DIESEL grew up in Australia and in the U.S.
He formed the band ‘Johnny Diesel & The Injectors’ in 1986 from remnants of a previous band before embarking on a solo career in 1991.
In 2017 DIESEL celebrated 30 years “off the bus” landing in Sydney in 1987 after a three-day bus journey across Australia, launching into nine shows per week – and the rest is history.
With over 35 singles, 16 albums, six ARIA awards and record sales edging one million, DIESEL is a journeyman of music.
With blues music in his DNA, an influence largely from his father’s record collection, DIESEL has blended styles to come up with a truly unique sound, punctuated with his distinct guitar playing and vocals.
Band of the 1st Regiment
Sunday 27 July
9 - 10 am
Crescent St Stage
Saturday 26 July
11 am - 12 pm
Courthouse
The Band of the 1st Regiment Royal, Australian Artillery has been an integral part of the Australian Army since its inception in 1949.
Renowned for its versatility and musicianship, this military band has performed for both defence and civilian audiences across Australia, entertaining and inspiring audiences through a broad range of music.
The band comprises of 32 Army Reserve members, all of whom are highly skilled musicians and soldiers.
Ryan Giles
Sunday 27 July
10.05 - 10.55 am
Crescent St Stage
A seasoned guitarist and vocalist since the late 90s whose passion for creating and performing shines through in everything he does.
Independent Australian singer/songwriter Ryan Giles is a born storyteller whose strong groove driven guitar picking – accompanied by a few crafty harmonica licks – has earned him a cult following from over two decades of performing in hundreds of pubs, clubs, music festivals, weddings and backyard parties across the Great Southern Land.
Felipe Baldomir
Sunday 27 July
1.15 - 2.15 pm
Crescent St Stage
Felipe Baldomir is a coastal indie-folk singer/songwriter from Uruguay. People often refer to his music as a blend of Jack Johnson, Xavier Rudd and Tash Sultana, mixing folk with groovy guitar riffs, synths, drums and saxophone.
Since moving to Australia in 2018, Felipe has converted a van into a ‘rolling home and studio’ and has been performing all around the country.
In the last two years, Felipe has taken his live show around the world and completed over 200 shows across Australia, New Zealand, Europe, United Kingdom, Canada, South Africa and South America.
Derek Smith
Sunday 27 July
9 - 10 am
Churchill Street Stage
Derek F. Smith is one of the hottest solo acts to come out of the Fraser Coast who brings a raw energy and emotion to every performance.
Derek performs a strong mix of originals and covers, and his music is inspired by artists such as Mumford & Sons, Matchbox 20, Counting Crows, Green Day and more.
Soulcutz
Sunday 27 July
10 - 11 am
Crescent St Stage
Since being launched into the public eye on X Factor, SoulCutz have played every imaginable event, from stadiums, corporate brand launches to weddings, making fans of their smooth vocal styling and high energy performances.
The Boys from SoulCutz are truly unique. SoulCutz promises to deliver an authentic blend of old-school, soul classics up to today’s top 40 hits, crafted with layers of perfect harmonies.
Obi Sun
Sunday 27 July
2 - 3 pm
Churchill Street Stage
Obi Sun isn’t just a band – it’s a family affair.
This mum, dad and son trio bring a unique dynamic to the stage that is as harmonious as it is electrifying.
With a blend of World Beat, ska, roots, and tribal influences, their music is a celebration of unity and rhythm that transcends boundaries.
Obi Sun promises an unforgettable show filled with joy, passion, and audience participation.
Fat Picnic
Sunday 27 July
2.30 - 3.30 pm
Crescent St Stage
Corrupted by a lust for groove, six-piece soul-splosion Fat Picnic are unanimously hailed as Brisbane's premier high-energy party band.
Their infectious energy, humour and every-genre-in attitude garnishes punchy horn lines and catchy choruses on a base of skank-funk, dub reggae, pop hooks and headbanging – culminating in a sweaty festival fiasco at every show.
Fearless leader Hughie Doherty founded Fat Picnic in 2010 with vibrant West End as their spiritual home and meeting place. They have since created communities of dance-crazed chauvinists across the entire East Coast as an Australian festival favourite.
Midnight Groove
Sunday 27 July
11 - 12 pm
Churchill Street Stage
Midnight Groove is one of Australia’s best musical acts and has been entertaining audiences world-wide for over 10 years.
With their combined musical talents, multi-instrumentalist Scott Browne and lead singer Sarah Browne, form the heart of Midnight Groove.
Ben Evolent
Sunday 27 July
12 - 1 pm
Churchill Street Stage
Award-winning songwriter – and one of the Northern Territory’s most loved live performers – Ben Evolent lives up to his namesake.
The folk/reggae/blues artist fills his songs with a healthy dose of raw emotion, relatable truths, loveable melodies and lively hooks.
His spirited songs about exploration, kinship, loss and acceptance warm the heart and inspire adventure.
Abby Skye
Sunday 27 July
1 - 2 pm
Churchill Street Stage
Abby Skye is a singer, composer and producer from Wide Bay who was ‘discovered’ at five-years-old when she was pulled from class and asked to sing for a Christmas function and in the senior choir.
She taught herself to play guitar, wrote her first song at 14 and has since clocked up thousands of performances along the East Coast of Australia, supporting the likes of Rick Price, Daryl Braithwaite, Renee Geyer, James Reyne, Mental as Anything as well as performing at esteemed events including the Sydney Lord Mayor NYE Ball, Victorian College of the Arts Alumni and for the President of Hungary.
John Veloso
Sunday 27 July
9 am - 12 pm
Courthouse
Tahli Thomas
Sunday 27 July
12.30 - 3 pm
NAB Stage
Nathan Bedford
Sunday 27 July
9 am - 12 pm
NAB Stage
David Hobson and Silvie Paladino featuring Suellen Cusack
Saturday 26 July
2 - 4 pm
Opera by the Lake
This year, prepare for a truly special performance featuring renowned tenor and composer David Hobson, joined by one of Australia’s most versatile vocalists and entertainers, Silvie Paladino.
Though David and Silvie, long-time friends from Melbourne, often cross paths, it’s rare for them to perform together, making this a one-of-a-kind event. They will be joined by the incredible local soprano Suellen Cusack, bringing an extra layer of talent to this already exceptional performance.
The trio will perform a mix of classic Opera and Musical Theatre masterpieces, including La Donna è Mobile, Nessun Dorma, The Impossible Dream, Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, You’ll Never Walk Alone, and many more. Expect powerful solo, duet and trio performances, accompanied by piano and strings, all adding to the sheer brilliance of the event.
Spargo Brothers
Sunday 27 July
10 am - 2 pm
Isis Club
Childers Festival Stilt Walkers
Sunday 27 July
10 am - 2 pm
Roving entertainment
Sneaky Schnitzel
Saturday 26 July
3 - 7 pm
Crescent St presents: Oktoberfest in July
Crescent St Stage
Hansel and Gretel
Saturday 26 July
Roving entertainment
Crescent St presents: Oktoberfest in July
Crescent St Stage
Hansel and Gretel have lost their way. They did find a gingerbread house... but they ate it all up and all that's left is the window!
Can you help them find the breadcrumb trail home?
This delightful fairytale style act is visually striking, highly interactive and a fun photo opportunity for all ages.
Attractions
Childers Arts Space
Why not take some time during the festival weekend to immerse yourself in the creative atmosphere at Childers Arts Space?
From the gallery’s peaceful veranda, you’ll enjoy a stunning bird’s-eye view of the festivities. In commemoration of the 25-year anniversary of the Palace Backpacker event, the gallery will feature heartfelt displays, and visitors are encouraged to leave a note of remembrance, honouring the event’s legacy.
Before you leave be sure to visit the Gallery Shop where you’ll discover a unique selection of artisan wares created by local designers and makers. Every purchase helps support Childers’ flourishing regional arts scene.
Thursday 24 July - Sunday 27 July
9 am - 3 pm
Churchill St, Childers
FREE ENTRY
Childers Firehouse Potters
Watch pottery come to life on Festival Day with live demonstrations by the Childers Firehouse Potters.
This talented community-based group will showcase their skills with ‘on the wheel’ and hand building techniques, creating stunning and unique pieces before your eyes.
Whether you're after something functional, artistic, or a little quirky, there will be a diverse selection of pottery available for sale.
Sunday 27 July
9 am - 3.30 pm
Churchill St, Childers
FREE EVENT
The Old Pharmacy
Step back in time at The Old Pharmacy, a captivating visitor attraction home to one of Australia's largest collections of early pharmaceutical history.
Explore fascinating displays featuring medicinal marvels, mineral ingredients, rare specimens, and mysterious potions from the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Delve into a rich variety of historical items, including dental, pharmacy, and photographic equipment, as well as antique specimen jars, medicine bottles, and rare medicine books. This impressive collection offers a unique insight into the early development of pharmaceutical practice in Australia.
The attraction is free to enter, and visitors can explore the authentic dispensary with a gold coin donation.
Saturday 26 July, 9 am - 2 pm
Sunday 27 July, 9 am - 3 pm
Churchill Street, Childers
FREE ENTRY
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
The RADIATORS
Get ready for an unforgettable night of live music with the iconic Australian pub rock band, The RADIATORS, at the legendary Grand Hotel Childers.
Formed in September 1978 in the heart of Sydney’s western suburbs, The RADIATORS have been rocking audiences for decades with their electrifying energy and timeless hits.
The venue gates open at 5.30 pm and the band kicks off at 8.30 pm. Book through Grand Hotel Childers or online.
Saturday 26 July
8.30 - 11 pm
Grand Hotel, Childers
Tickets: $40
Uncle Bob's Jug Band
Australia's most fun loving and award winning 'jug band' established in 1985 if you haven't already you need to hear and see the amazing, multi award winning Uncle Bob’s Jug Band!
Friday 26 July
8.30 - 11 pm
Grand Hotel, Childers
FREE ENTRY
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 24 July - Sunday 27 July
8.30 am - 2.30 pm
The Paragon Theatre, Childers
FREE ENTRY
Built with Shorthand