Back for its fourth year on Sunday, December 3, Thirroul Music Festival will be spread across various venues, making it a chance to savour the town's charm as well as the finest in Americana, country, blues and indie music.
“The idea was to bring the town to life over one big day where we have multiple venues across town,” said Luke Woods, one of the founders of Thirroul Music Festival and of Cheatin' Heart Records.
“People are able to walk around popping their heads in venues, seeing new music, discovering new music, grabbing some food in local cafes on their way around town.”
Luke has a long history in the music industry, including stints with various record labels and live music events. Previously, he was part of the team at the Opera House, involved in the Vivid Live Festival. With his colleague and Thirroul Music Festival co-founder Aaron Curnow (of Spunk Records), Luke was eager to introduce the festival vibe to Thirroul.
This year, the festival is soaring to new heights, securing larger venues like Anita's Theatre and local favourite Frank's Wild Years. This expansion has not only increased their capacity but also attracted renowned international acts such as M. Ward & the Undertakers, Robert Ellis and Courtney Marie Andrews. The lineup also features Australian talent, including the legendary Steve Kilby, as well as exceptional local acts like Shining Bird, Birdsville, and Zion.
“I think of it as a showcase of the best Americana, country, folk, indie music,” Luke said.
“We're super excited to have a world-class lineup this year with acts from Nashville and Texas, with some of the best in their respective fields in the Americana, country, folk space.
“These artists perform all over the world, so to have them in our little town, we're really excited about it and we think they're going to love Anita's Theatre as a venue.”
Luke and his team aim to do more than showcase great music; they also strive to shine a light on Thirroul and its community.
“We really hope the festival is a boost for local businesses and an opportunity for them to capitalise on having a bunch of people from outside of town attending the festival,” Luke said.
“They can start the day with a swim and a coffee and then grab their wristband and wander around town, seeing some of the world's best artists, playing all over our little seaside town for all.”
For more information on the lineup and tickets, check out the festival’s website.