ARTISTS
Band of the 1st Regiment
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 9 - 9.35 am
Crescent St Stage
Childers Festival
Saturday 27 July | 1 - 2 pm
The 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. They perform across different genres including rock, pop, jazz, classical and traditional military music. The band regularly performs at military parades, ceremonies, concerts, and public events, showcasing their vast array of skills, while also supporting and representing the Australian Defence Force.
Austin Mackay
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 10 - 10.50 am
Crescent St Stage
Hailing from Newcastle, country/folk/rock artist Austin Mackay is known for his diverse approach to songwriting that seamlessly blends heartfelt folk melodies with dynamic rock energy. Drawing on influences including James Bay, John Mayer, Matt Corby and KALEO, Austin spent years crafting his own fusion of folk/rock, brought to life through his raw storytelling and captivating deliveries.
With his natural ability to delight audiences, Austin is no stranger to the stage, having been on the road for the past three years, playing sold-out headline shows across the country and gaining more than 1.3 million streams on Spotify alone.
Murphy's Pigs
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 1.45 - 2.30 pm
Crescent St Stage
A big band, a big sound and over 50 metres of suit fabric. Throw caution to the wind and set forth on a musical journey through the lands of the Celts as Murphy's Pigs drag you headfirst into their world of rugged mountains, stormy oceans, fearsome battles, unrequited love and a drop or two of the whiskey.
Their unrehearsed style breathes new life into old favourites and firmly places their unique stamp on contemporary treasures … and some not-too-shabby stuff they’ve written themselves. Mildly humorous onstage banter, an insane number of instruments and robust, manly voices unite to create an experience that will, unfortunately, be seared deep into your memory long after the performance is over.
Brooke Schubert
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 2.45 - 3.30 pm
Crescent St Stage
Brisbane singer-songwriter Brooke Schubert has shared stages with some of the worlds biggest artists, but her career is only just beginning. From blues to country to rock, Brooke writes, records and performs it all!
Brooke is no stranger to music lovers, having had her profile boosted with appearances on The Voice and Australian Idol, but she had been touring since she was young, having performed with the Dead Ringer Band when she was nine. Kasey Chambers is still a major inspiration.
Joe Tee + Afrodisa
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 10 am - 2 pm
Isis Club
Joe Tee and Afrodisa is a unique band with music incorporates an unusual fusion of assorted roots with African styles rhythms, including Ghanaian hi-life, reggae, calypso and popular music.
With articulate arrangements and soulful vocals, the band's indefinable flavour creates a unique sound with an infectious dance feel.
Hot Potato Band
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 9 am - 3 pm
Roving the festival
Hot Potato Band’s larger-than-life brass collective is a breath of fresh air, setting a new bar for energetic and interactive musical performances. Finding home in Sydney, their positive coastal energy pushes euphoric boundaries in their bold quest to reignite acoustic instrumentation.
The band's 10 year street performing history and unique sound is built on the backs of three drummers, a sousaphone and five horns that cover catchy chorus lines, providing a beautiful harmonic cloud for Ben, their vocalist, to float above.
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 11 - 11.40 am
Crescent St Stage
Rarely has an Australian band received as much consistent and widespread acclaim from critics and music fans alike.
With ten albums under their belt and over thirty years of constant touring, this award-winning quartet have well and truly worked their way into Australia’s musical heart.
The Bondi’s have consistently delivered the goods with Down In The Valley nominated at the 2003 ARIA awards for Best Blues and Roots Album. 1995’s After Closing Time awarded Best Blues Album at the 1996 Lithgow Blues Festival. In 2015, the band released their 10th album, “Child in the Desert” and it has been well received by fans and critics.
With their fantastic mix of blues, soul, funk and RnB, they have maintained their status as one of this country’s most in-demand touring acts, with shows numbering over a hundred and fifty each year. Over a decade later, many original fans are still supporting the band.
Ben Spargo
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 9 - 9.50 am
Paverock Quarry Stage
Starting in Brisbane and then strumming his way through the pubs and clubs of South-East Queensland and Northern New South Wales since he was legal, Ben Spargo has been entertaining crowds for 25 years.
With well over a thousand gigs under his belt, this versatile guitarist has rocked stages in a number of full band lineups and captivated intimate crowds during scores of solo acoustic sets. For his energetic solo shows, audiences can expect to hear mainly pub rock classics, but may be surprised with a few unexpected gems. Whether plugged in or unplugged, Ben's passion for performing shines through in every show.
Troy Daubaras
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 10 - 10.50 am
Paverock Quarry Stage
A singer-songwriter hailing from Bundaberg, known for captivating performances that breathe new life into familiar tunes. With a style that strips back/reinterprets songs that resonate with him, Troy brings a unique and soulful touch to every performance.
Troy is donating his performance fee to Bundaberg Legacy.
Those Folk
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 11 - 11.50 am
Paverock Quarry Stage
Gracing the Childers Festival stage this year are the charismatic, authentic and thoroughly entertaining, Lawrence Menard and Clare Quinn, commonly known as Those Folk. A partnership forged in the fires of folk music, Those Folk explore sounds from the 1960s folk revival and contemporary Americana music.
Breathtaking vocal harmonies are featured alongside rich instrumental work performed on acoustic guitar, mandolin and banjo. They have been compared to the likes of Simon and Garfunkel and Johnny and June. Those Folk make not just folk music, but music for all sorts of folk.
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 12 - 1.15 pm
Crescent St Stage
We are proud to announce Dragon are gracing the Childers Festival stage as our 2024 headline act!
With so many songs you know and love in a glorious musical mashup, festival goers can expect unforgettable music that will get your heart pumping and toes tapping.
Mining the depths of Dragon’s setlists, witness live the songs you haven’t heard for years, that favourite song that never gets the time of day (and the ones that do), they will all make an appearance this Childers Festival!
Are you old enough? Are we still in love? This time, before your young years fade, come celebrate the sunshine and the rain. Your Wilder World awaits...
Come along, sing along, get the jive, move your body to the beat. Don't miss out on this extraordinary music event with Dragon.
Canta La Tumba
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 12 - 12.50 pm
Paverock Quarry Stage
Canta la Tumba performs the dynamic music of Cuba and Latin America. Weaving Spanish song with Afro groove, their unique blend of vocal sweeps with striking strings on pulse of drums and bright brass interludes, evokes the playful vibe of the tropics.
This ensemble shares a passion for rhythm, soul and the beaming improvisation that makes Latin music so infectious.
In addition to Childers Festival Canta La Tumba has entertained audiences with their upbeat music at Multicultural events such as: Woodford Folk Festival, FESTURI, Caloundra Music Festival, Yandina festival, Moreton Bay Multicultural festival, Maleny Music Festival, Ipswich Festival, Brisbane Chillifest and Blues on Broadbeach.
Obi Sun
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 1 - 1.50 pm
Paverock Quarry Stage
Obi Sun are a mum/dad/son/trio that have travelled the country playing their world beat, soul treat, so sweet music at many festivals and events.
Fronting the band is Obi Sun who has been playing professional gigs since he was a toddling, nappy-clad babe ... mama is keeping it real on bass while daddy lays down the law on the drums. The truth is these three just love to play music together ... and the feeling is contagious.
They've been finalists on Australia's Got Talent, winners of the Australian busking championships, and were voted Tamworth Country Music festivals favourite buskers (twice). Obi Sun promise a vibrant show to remember for all ages and types, with joy and passion and lots of audience participation.
Sand
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 2 - 3 pm
Paverock Quarry Stage
Sand is a dynamic collaboration of three seasoned performers.
Jack Viljoen - South African born and adopted Australian Jack has been entertaining audiences with a variety of genres and eras including old school rock and roll, pub rock, blues, country, mainstream pop.
Glenn Churchill - Glenn’s a rock and roller from the 70s who refuses to age gracefully, after sharing the nation’s stages and studios with the likes of Skyhooks, Sherbet, Dragon, The Bay City Rollers, The Osmonds, AC/DC and more.
Lachlan Lyle - Lachlan started playing music at a young age, getting into guitar and bass in his early teens. Lachlan enjoys playing most genres of music but his lively bass riffs really come to life in hard rock, country rock and blues.
Opera by the Lake
Saturday 27 July | 2 - 4 pm
Lake Redbrook, Childers
At the age of fifteen, Mark Vincent stepped onto the set of Australia’s Got Talent and stunned a nation with his powerful and emotive rendition of Puccini’s, Nessun Dorma. Mark’s incredible voice, mature beyond its years, captured the hearts of people all over Australia and internationally to become the winner of Australia’s Got Talent 2009.
Mark has since gone on to become one of Australia’s most beloved tenors, having released nine #1 ARIA Classical Crossover Albums while having earned accolades both nationally and internationally.
Mark Vincent made his Musical Theatre debut in the 2014 Australian production of Dirty Dancing, which played 130 performances around the country. In 2016, Dame Julie Andrews, DBE cast Mark in her directorial production of My Fair Lady, which toured nationally with Opera Australia to rave reviews.
Mark has also performed alongside Susan Boyle, Katherine Jenkins and Australia’s leading lady of the theater, Marina Prior.
Keely Ellen
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 9 - 11 am
NAB Stage
Keely Ellen is not your average teenager. Hailing from Bundaberg, Queensland, this 17-year-old singer-songwriter has been making waves in the music scene since she was just 8 years old, when she first discovered her passion for singing. At the tender age of 10, Keely picked up her first guitar, and the rest, as they say, is history.
With a knack for mixing pop feels with country narratives, Keely is gaining recognition both within her local community and beyond, boosted by the release of her debut single, Redhead, in February 2024.
Stella Hutchins
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 11 am - 1 pm
NAB Stage
Stella Hutchins is a local performer and singer-songwriter. After graduating from UQ with a BA and Education, Stella returned to her hometown after landing her dream job as a secondary Music and Drama teacher.
Stella has appeared in musicals, Shakespeare and pantomimes for the Bundaberg Players. In 2020 Stella was selected as one of only 11 young ladies to be selected to work on the Big Sky Girls Album, where she collaborated with industry professionals and had recorded her first single, Dance with me.
Marah Leigh
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 1- 3 pm
NAB Stage
Marah Leigh is a Bundaberg born and bred singer songwriter guitarist. Her emotive power house voice is a beautifully balanced blend of Soul and Indie pop.
As a cover artist for live events she coustically covers songs from the 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s with her guitar and feet percussion tantalising your earbuds with her own unique twist on each song.
Opera by the Lake
Saturday 27 July | 2 - 4 pm
Lake Redbrook
Professionally trained as an opera singer, Suellen Cusack is a classical crossover singer at heart. This genre allows her to augment her style to sing beautiful melodies and ballads in her true voice.
Born and raised in Bundaberg by her Irish father and Australian mother, Suellen has always had a close connection with her Celtic roots and dedicates her version of Fields of Athenry on her debut album to her late father.
Suellen has toured as the lead soprano with the Australian production Scotland the Brave, performing at the Lincoln Centre on Broadway and the Roy Thompson Hall in Canada. She also performed on Channel 7's Sunrise ANZAC day, and as backing vocalist for renown tenor Andrea Bocelli.
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 9 am - 3 pm
Roving the festival
Dedicated to infusing joy and vitality through the art of Latin dance, Baylando Latin Fusion is celebrated for its inclusive community and has been a vibrant beacon of Latin dance and music in the growing Wide Bay region.
A festival favourite, witness the crowd of Childers Festival goers part to make way for this larger than life ensemble, creating lasting, vibrant memories for event attendees.
Stilt Walkers
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 9 am - 3 pm
Roving the festival
What’s Childers Festival without an amazing ensemble of stilt walkers! Our stunning stilt walkers will be roaming the festival, spreading joy from above and breathing life into the event.
See the busy crowd of festival goers part to make way as stilt walkers stroll down the highway. Be sure to grab a photo or two as they pass!
PCYC Blazers Dragon and Lion Dance Team
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 9 am - 3 pm
Roving the festival
Dragon and Lion Dance has been an integral part of Chinese Culture for thousands of years. It is believed that the symbolism of the dragon and lion will chase away negative energy and the traditional dance will scare away evil spirits and bring strength and good luck to those in attendance.
A festival favourite, the PCYC Blazers have been performing for 13 years and return to delight crowds once again.
Bundaberg Caledonian Pipe Band
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 9 am - 3 pm
Roving the festival
The Bundaberg Caledonian Pipe Band is the oldest piping band in Queensland, established in 1884.
They are a community bagpipe band who supply music for annual festivals, street marches, sporting and charity events, ceremonial and memorial occasions and now Childers Festival! Catch them marching proudly through the streets in their Ancient Sutherland kilts.
Childers Festival
Sunday 28 July | 9 am - 3 pm
Roving the festival
Delight in Miss Bubbles’ adore-a-bubble world where joy and rainbows rule!
Miss Bubbles is a Gold Coast based bubbleologist who has been leaving a trail of rainbows, giddy children and sparkle for the past 12 years as she entertains across SEQLD.
Prepare yourself for a bubble popping extravaganza, enormous bubbles and bubble secrets galore.
DJ Desi
Crescent St Presents: Bollywood
Saturday 27 July | 3 - 9 pm
Crescent St Stage
Dj Desi is one of the most versatile and experienced Indian DJ in Australia.
Primarily based in Brisbane, Dj Desi performs at functions and clubs all over Australia playing the best of Bollywood and Bhangra music together with RnB, Hip Hop, Retro (70’s & 80’s) and Top 50.
This intimate knowledge of Eastern and Western music gives Dj Desi an edge over other Djs as he combines the best of both worlds to give you the best possible mix of music on the night.
Indian Malayali Community in Bundaberg
Crescent St Presents: Bollywood
Saturday 27 July | 3 - 3.20 pm
Crescent St Stage
A traditional performance, Chenda Melam is a captivating traditional Indian art form that combines the powerful beats of percussion with vibrant melodies.
Originating in the southern state of Kerala, Chenda Melam memorizes audiences with its dynamic performance featuring the majestic sound of the Chenda drum, accompanied by other traditional instruments like the IIathalam and Kombu.
But Chenda Melam is more than just a musical performance; it’s a celebration of Kerala’s rich cultural tapestry. Passed down through generations, this art form embodies the spirit and traditions of the region, showcasing the unique blend of heritage and innovation that defines Kerala’s artistic landscape.
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of India as skilled artists showcase their mastery, creating an electrifying atmosphere that transcends boundaries. Discover the magic of chenda melam, and where every beat tells a story of kerala’s history.
Navarasa Arts Academy
Crescent St Presents: Bollywood
Saturday 27 July | 4.30 - 5 pm
Crescent St Stage
Navarasa Arts Academy established in Bundaberg in 2021 teaches Indian dances, mainly Bharatanatyam, which is a traditional Indian dance that has about 2000 years of age.
Bharatanatyam is a classical dance form originated from Tamil Nadu – a state in India. Through this art form, Navarasa Arts Academy is aiming wellness of the community and to pass traditions and culture to others.
Navarasa Arts Academy also teaches an Indian traditional form of Martial Art called Kalaripayattu and a percussion art called Chendamelam.
Navarasa has students across in Australia, India, Singapore, Canada and UK. In Australia, Navarasa is training students from Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Bundaberg.
Eesha Elephant
Crescent St Presents: Bollywood
Saturday 27 July
Roving Crescent St Presents: Bollywood
Experience the magic of Eesha Elephant as this amazingly lifelike elephant wanders through the festival. A massive 2.6 m tall and 3.5 m long, the look and puppetry of Eesha Elephant evokes an emotional connection. Eesha startles people when she lifts her head and trumpets!
Presented by Stilt Walkers Australia.
Dance Masala
Bollywood Dance Workshop
Crescent St Presents: Bollywood
Saturday 27 July | 5 - 6 pm
Crescent St Stage
Dance Masala are Brisbane's Premier Bollywood Dance Company dedicated to radically uplifting, and empowering our incredible dance community.
Dance Masala's Nakhre Crew holds the title of the Best Dance Team in Australia as awarded at the Telstra Bollywood Dance Competition. In 2023, their first major work 'ITEM' premiered to wonderful acclaim, nominated for a 2023 Matilda Award, establishing their position as nuanced storytellers of complex themes. ITEM enjoyed a sold-out season and rave reviews.
SoulCutz
Crescent St Presents: Bollywood
Saturday 27 July | 6 - 7.15 pm
Crescent St Stage
After many years and much recognition within the entertainment industry, SoulCutz brings us cabaret-style entertainment.
SoulCutz will entertain the young and the young at heart with a repertoire spanning four decades and has the ability to sound like Shaggy, The Bee Gees not to mention the outstanding dance moves that mimic Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley to name a few!
Crescent St Presents: Bollywood
Saturday 27 July | 2 - 9 pm
Crescent St Stage
An Australian household name thanks to her TV and film achievements around the world, Tania Zaetta's extensive career has spanned from being the ‘daredevil’ host on the 90’s prime time hit action series ‘Who Dares Wins’ which aired in 80 countries with hundreds of millions of viewers. She also stared in the most watched show on the planet, Baywatch, and hosted her own TV shows in the UK, India and Asia.
Tania then became the 'first foreigner to conquer Bollywood’, the world’s largest film industry, with over 2 billion viewers. In 'Salaam Namaste’ Tania played one of four lead roles which became one of Bollywood's biggest hits and the third-highest-grossing film of 2005 in India, as well as India's biggest hit in the overseas market that year (currently on Netflix).
An accomplished TV Host and Presenter around the globe Tania has worked across an impressive genre of programs including lifestyle, fashion, sports, action, health and fitness.
Crescent St Presents: Bollywood
Saturday 27 July | 7.30 - 9 pm
Crescent St Stage
Highly regarded as one of Australia’s favourite bands for big events, Magic Carpet Ride will take you on a trip through decades of party tunes, classic rock, Aussie bangers, pop floor-fillers and much more!
With powerhouse vocals from Stu Campbell and Kate White, Magic Carpet Ride features a line-up of some of this country’s finest musicians - including a three-piece brass section.
Playing hundreds of shows together over the past 15 years, this band has the reputation of belting out a 'magic' gig every time. Sing along, dance along, and party along with Magic Carpet Ride!
Paragon Theatre
Friday 26 July | 6 - 10 pm
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of electrifying entertainment with RESPECT The Aretha Franklin Story.
Starring Australia’s ‘Soul Mama’, Angie Narayan, RESPECT is a masterful piece of storytelling about family, loyalty and victory, layered with glorious harmonies and sassy repartee.
Joining Angie on stage are performers, Ezekiel Narayan, Shelley Davies and the incredible Faith Sosene, top 5 finalist who blew Australia away in The Voice Season 11, together with an electric band!
ATTRACTIONS
Happiness Yoga
Crescent St Presents: Bollywood
Saturday 27 July | 3 - 4 pm
Crescent St Stage
Come join Katie from Happiness Yoga for a free yoga session!
Bring your mat and experience a flow yoga class centred around creative Vinyasa imbued with calm breathing, blending strength and relaxation.
Please bring your own yoga mat, drink bottle, hat/sun safe measures, towel and a pillow that can also be used as a mini bolster if desired.
Henna Workshop
Crescent St Presents: Bollywood
Saturday 27 July | 3 - 4 pm + 5 - 6 pm
Tickets: $10 (limited spots)
Crescent Street
Join us for an enchanting journey into the world of henna body art! In this immersive workshop, participants will delve into the rich history and cultural significance of henna, exploring its ancient roots and modern applications.
Led by an experienced henna artist, you will learn the techniques of applying beautiful and intricate henna designs. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, this workshop is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their skills and creativity.
Each participant will receive a handmade natural henna cone, crafted from the finest ingredients, to practice and perfect their designs. You'll have the opportunity to apply your creations on yourself or your friends, making this a fun and interactive experience.
Chill out at CHARTS
Childers Festival
Saturday 27 + Sunday 28 July | 9 am - 3 pm
Childers Arts Space
Need a break from all of the excitement of the Festival weekend? Take the opportunity to relax, rest your feet and chill out at Childers Arts Space! The latest exhibition Creation Station: A Retrospective is a celebration of the Childers Visual Arts Group, and a must-see for Festival visitors wanting to truly experience the creative community that thrives in the region!
You can even meet the artists and create alongside them, at their Arts in the Park event on Saturday!
Don't miss the Childers Arts Space, a true hub of creativity in the centre of Childers!
Funny Bunnies
Soft Play
Sunday 28 July | 9 am - 3.30 pm
Courthouse grounds
Funny Bunnies soft play equipment is kept to the highest standards in cleanliness and safety, built strong for 0-5 year olds. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of Childers Festival and let your bub play in the ball pit, tunnels, climbing cube, soft slides, rainbow climbing bridges, balance beams, building blocks and more! It's an experience like no other!
Located on the lawn bowls green at the Isis Club.
Creation Station: A Retrospective
20 July - 22 September Childers Arts Space
Creation Station: A Retrospective celebrates the creative community that is the Childers Visual Arts Group. Started over 20 years ago in Alice McLaughlin's garden at Apple Tree Creek, this group encapsulates the true essence of artist collectives - creative learning, mentoring, camaraderie, and a passion for art.
In Creation Station: A Retrospective each artist was challenged to select artworks that reflect their creative journey, with the final selection being curated into a whole by Bundaberg Regional Galleries Director, Rebecca McDuff.
The exhibition has been timed to coincide with the Childers Festival, a key event in the group's calendar, as they annually share their love of the arts with the community through 'Art in the Park'.
In its entirety, this exhibition is a testament to the strength and diversity of the Childers Visual Arts Group, and more broadly the regional arts community.
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Sunday 28 July | 9 am - 1 pm
Churchill Street
Built in 1941, Sacred Heart Church is a beautiful Romanesque style church. The land beside the Church was used to build a convent and a school for the Sisters of St Joseph, who had been operating a school in Childers since 1926.
On the corner of Churchill and Stewart Streets, it will be open for festival visitors to view.
Childers Firehouse Potters
Sunday 28 July | 9 am - 3.30 pm
Churchill Street
On Festival Day the Childers Firehouse Potters will demonstrate their varied skills including ‘on the wheel’ and hand building, creating wonderful pieces. They have functional, artistic and quirky pieces for sale.
Find them opposite the Shell service station at the northern end of Churchill Street.
Childers Festival at the Library
25 - 27 July | Library opening hours
Childers Library
Celebrate Childers Festival at the library with all things Bollywood!
This year, families can pop in for free activities or a Bollywood movie (PG) showing at 9.30 am on the Saturday.
The Old Pharmacy
Childers Festival
Saturday 27 July | 9 am - 2 pm
Sunday 28 July | 9 am - 3 pm
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 gold coin donation per person on Sunday.
Built with Shorthand