THE historic Bandon Grove Community Hall is preparing to open its doors to a vibrant new chapter with a full calendar of live music and cultural events planned for the year ahead.
Rich in character and community spirit, the much-loved wooden hall nestled just outside Dungog, has long been a gathering place for locals.
This year will see it transform into an intimate performance space hosting an eclectic mix of live music and creative events.
Venue booker Ben Steer from Continuous Music said the aim was to create events that felt inclusive and accessible, while showcasing exceptional artists.
“Bandon Grove Hall has such a beautiful energy.
“It’s intimate, welcoming and steeped in history,” said Ben.
“We want to honour that by bringing artists from near and far who really connect with audiences, while keeping the experience relaxed, affordable and community-focused.”
Set among the rolling green hills of Bandon Grove, the hall offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, with barbecue facilities, a sausage sizzle and a bar.
Entry for children under 12 is free, encouraging families to come along and enjoy live music together in a relaxed rural setting.
It will welcome many talents from acoustic, world and folk music to gypsy jazz, alt-country and singer-songwriters from across the globe to its centre stage.
Audiences can delight in choirs, spoken word performances and book signings.
The program officially kicks off on Saturday 17 January, with a family-friendly opening event headlined by Hunter Valley favourites The Magpie Diaries.
The band is launching their new album “Some Kind of View.”
The launch will also feature internationally acclaimed troubadour Tim Easton from the United States, alongside Brea Burns, known as the “honky-tonk queen” of the Arizona desert.
The strong opening night sets the tone for the months ahead, with British Americana artists Emily Lawler and Dan Webster performing on Friday 20 February.
Master gypsy jazz swing guitarist Cameron Jones will perform on Saturday, 14 March.
Tickets are available via Humanitix: https://events.humanitix.com/magpie-tim-bandon-grove
With its intimate setting, global talent and strong family-friendly community focus, Bandon Grove Community Hall is shaping up to be a standout destination in the Dungog region.
By Shannon BENTON
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