WA Folk Music and Dance Calendar

Friday 6th February
— Hills Folk Club.(1st Friday)
HILLS FOLK CLUB will be delighted to welcome old friends & new to our 1st Club night in 2026 on Friday 6th February at Falls Farm. To ensure we have a bright night of fantastic music we have invited ‘The Pioneers Bush Band’ with Liz & Dave Rivett, Jenny & Dave Hoffman performing traditional songs and tunes, but also many of Dave’s original songs. Liz, Dave, Jenny & Dave have regularly supported the Zig Zag New Years Eve Dance at Stirk Park so you can expect to hear some of that bouncy music as well as Liz’s lovely voice. A special addition to ‘Pioneers ’will be well known folkie Peter Harper on bass. By popular request from our members, we are also delighted to welcome back Scott Gray & Marty Randall to our Club. Their young and enthusiastic approach to singing and playing bluegrass, old time tunes and instrumental fiddle tunes on guitar and banjo will be enjoyed by all. Peter ‘Murph’ Murphy has also secured a spot so this will be a night not to miss. Hills Folk Club is held at Falls Farm Cottage on Neil Tonkin Park, Cagney Way, Lesmurdie at 8pm. $10 entry.
Contact Pauline Tonkin 92916026 paulinekevin@bigpond.com or Peter ‘Murph’ Murphy at 94546144 murf2murf4@gmail.com

— WA Bush Poets & Yarnspinners Monthly Muster.
7 pm, TBC
The Auditorium, Swan Care Bentley Park, 26 Plantation Drive, Bentley WA
Contact: Bill Gordon billgordon1948@gmail.com Mob: 0428 651 098

Friday 6th-8th February
— WHEN BAYLEY’S STAR GLEAMED BRIGHT.
………or how I nearly struck it rich. The WA Goldfields’ History Through Song, Story, Verse and (almost true) Anecdote.
In 1892, 36 year old prospector William Ford picked up a 1/2oz gold nugget on a grassy area, later known as Coolgardie’s Fly Flat. Together with his 26 year old prospecting partner, Arthur Bayley, they awakened a sleeping giant which was to become the WA Eastern Goldfields. The effect this had on both Western Australia, and indeed Australia, was profound. Join Phil, Yvonne, Karien, John and Joe in the telling this rollicking tale.
A tale of the people of the WA Eastern Goldfields who lived, worked and passed into History…………..
MIDLAND JUNCTION ARTS CENTRE Sunday Jan 25 2026 Matinee: 2:00pm Evening: 6:00pm OLD MILL THEATRE SOUTH PERTH
Friday Feb 6 Evening: 7:30pm
Saturday Feb 7 Matinee: 2:00pm. Evening: 6:00pm
Sunday Feb 8 Matinee: 2:00pm Evening: 6:00pm
CLICK ON THE LINK TO ORDER TICKETS!!
FRINGE FESTIVAL EVENT!! Hear the Stories, Smell the Dust, Listen to the music

8th & 22nd February
–Matilda’s music.(2nd and 4th Sunday)
Matilda’s provides an open-mic venue for community musicians to perform in front of an audience. The vibe is very casual and supportive
We meet in the Hollywood and Subiaco Bowling Club, 42 Smyth Road Nedlands, from 2 until 5pm on the second and fourth Sundays of each month and usually attract between 20 and 40 people, of whom 10 to 12 are performers
New players and listeners are always welcome and the players register is open from 1.45 while we’re setting up. $5 entry
Every Wednesday there’s an informal jam session from 4 to 6pm for anyone who wants to turn up and make music. No entry fee
Enquiries to David: davidjbt@gmail.com

13th January
— Wanneroo Folk Club In Warwick
The “Stringpickers” are the surviving remnants of several folk bands of the last 40 years, which played music from the Australian folk and country music scenes. Alan Mann (banjo, guitar, vocals) played with the late Bob Rummery in W.A. Bush Orchestra, and many songs were from the Eastern Australian folk tradition, but they also wrote and played historical and contemporary songs from the South-West. Some of these, songs of the timber industry, were commissioned by and played on ABC radio. Phil Roeterdink (vacals, guitar) started playing folk music in late 1968 and later played with Bob Rummery, Jim McGuire and Judith & Don Shaw in “Blackboy Jam” (BBJ) which was born out of early members of the Wanneroo Folk Club in the mid-1980s. BBJ played a mix of mainly Australian traditional folk music with some Scottish and Irish thrown in. Both Alan and Phil joined with Phil Gray and Bob Rummery to form “Loaded Dog” in 2001, and drew on traditional Australian material, adding much of their own material written by Alan. “Loaded Dog” performed at Fairbridge, Nannup, Jamberoo and the National Folk Festivals. They produced four CDs between 2001 & 2020, which were recorded in Margaret River. In this outing “Stringpickers” will reprise some of the material from this heritage together with a few new ring-ins
Doors open 7 pm for a 7:30 start (please be patient if the door is closed before 7pm while we set up the room)
Tea & coffee provided, for other refreshment bring your own
Admission: $12 ($10 WAFF Members) Cash is preferred, Card facilities will be available.
more info at wafolk.org.au or email wafolk@hotmail.com

13th, 14th, 20th, 21st February
— Fred Smith Domesticity.
Pleased to say I’ll be crossing the Nullarbor for a two-week run of performances in the second half of February 2026. Specifically: I’m putting together a WA all-star band to play my new show Domesticity: Songs from the Domestic Frontier in Kalamunda on 13 February and Narrogin on 14 February. We debuted Domesticity last year at the Adelaide Fringe to five-star reviews which I have pasted below for my self-aggrandizement and your information.
It’s got a warm heart this show and makes for a perfect Valentine’s Day outing. Fewer fatalities than my Afghanistan shows.
Then on Friday 20 February we’ll be hitting the Fremantle Park Club with my other new show “America”. It’s about a troubled little country just south of Canada. It’s a lot of fun; until it isn’t. Synopsis also pasted below.
Then I’ll fang it down to Albany to play new songs and old in the beautiful Wesley Church on Saturday 21 February.
Then rest up for a week in the Great Southern ahead of Nannup Festival which is always so lovely.
If you’d like to host me for a house concert in the gaps in the program please email my manager (i.e. me). He’d love to hear from you.

Saturday 14th of February 2026
— Mandurah Soiree.
Unfortunately, with great regret, we will have to cancel the Soiree for the Saturday, the 14th of February. I apologise for the late notice but due to other commitments on that date, we will have to re-schedule. The Soiree will return soon however sometime in late March, but we will have to be more flexible with the actual date, and not try to stick to the second Saturday of each second month, so it is intended send the notice out 2 weeks before each Soiree. More to follow-Many heart-felt thanks to all of you who over the years, have supported the Soiree. Many of you have had to have travelled some distances to attend. The format will also change slightly in that there will be no set theme, and the mailing list will also be adjusted to reduce the number of addressees who have moved on over the years. Please let me have your comments about how you feel about the Soiree, and any ideas you may have about how it can be improved.
If you are interested, we look forward to hearing from you. Email address is: ilo78333@bigpond.net.au

15th February — Greenbushes Acoustic.(3rd Sunday) TBC
RSL Hall in Greenbushes 1:30 and 3:30pm
Greenbushes Acoustic is a mental health support group with an acoustic music focus in Greenbushes. The main aim is to bring people together to play, sing and listen to live acoustic music, build relationships and community, as well as skills. The inclusive Support Group is open to people of all ages, skills, and abilities. We provide a creative and mutual learning space to foster mental health maintenance and recovery. Greenbushes Acoustic started as Greenbushes Folk Club in September 2020 for an acoustic music picnic that has become a monthly event, now held regularly on the third Sunday of each month. Everyone is invited to our free events. Please bring your own picnic and chairs, as well as your family, friends and neighbours. Your donation is welcome.
Lee on 0491 009 134 or Irma on 0466 640 455
email: hello@greenbushesacoustic.club
web: greenbushesacoustic.club

20th February
— Swan Acoustic.(3rd Friday of the month)
We are thrilled to announce that we have a Featured Guest night next month. This is part of our plan for the Club – to feature artists every so often who will bring a distinct blend of original material and expertise to share with the audience. In keeping with live acoustic music clubs, it is a great opportunity for both players and audience to see and learn from different music styles and presentation.
In February we are featuring Scott Wise. Hailing from Margaret River, Scott is an internationally acclaimed Luthier and Musician who has been performing since the 1960s. He has been a driving member of the legendary Ten Cent Shooters, Wise Family Band and many other musical combinations from the 70s to the present. In addition to his talented songwriting, he brings with him a wealth of musical expertise and knowledge, accompanied by many of his hand crafted acoustic instruments.
With limited seats available, this is a evening you don’t want to miss. This is a first come, best dressed show. There will be two support acts for the night, and once finalised they will be advertised. Details for reserving seats: Pre-sales for entry, you need to transfer the ticket price via EFT. Seat reservation $12 ($10 WAFF Members). Send an email to Phil Gray at warralakinmusic@gmail.com and they will reply with the bank details etc. When we see the funds in the WAFF account we will confirm adding you to the list at the door.
Swan Acoustic was launched on Friday February 21st, 2025, at the Swan Bowling and Recreation Club on the corner of James and Attfield Streets, Guildford.
Operating under the banner of the WAFF, in addition to seasoned performers, it offers an opportunity for acts (young and mature) starting out, learning to perform in an intimate, live audience atmosphere. This offers a unique opportunity to develop the skills required to engage with the audience, and present music in a safe and supportive environment. Original music is encouraged – both song and instrumental.
The music commences at 7:00pm and will conclude around 10:00pm. The bowling club is run entirely by friendly volunteers and they offer an economical single choice meal available from around 6:00pm, but be early as there only a set number of meals and they disappear quickly! You’re welcome to bring your own snacks.
Be aware that this is a licensed venue and so NO BYO drinks and any minors are to be accompanied by an adult.
Club nights will be the 3rd Friday of each month, unless otherwise advertised.
If you have any queries at all, call or message Phil Gray on 0404 629 125.

22nd Febuary
— Perth Scottish Fiddlers.(last Sunday) TBC
Formed in 2009 to give musicians the opportunity to learn and play the rich and extensive fiddle music of Scotland. We meet on the last Sunday of the month, 1.30 – 4.00pm at St Andrews Church hall, 259 Barker Road, Subiaco. All string players welcome. perthscottishfiddlers@gmail.com, www.perthscottishfiddlers.com.au

23rd February
— Sunset Coast Shanty Crew .
the Pirate Bar, 25 Green Street, Mt Hawthorn
The Sunset Coast Shanty Crew meets on the 4th Monday of the month.
Format : Everybody who comes along will be given the opportunity to lead a song of their choice. You are not obliged to sing and the song does not have to be in our song book but must have a nautical theme.
Song Book : Link to the SCSC Song Book Drive
Please download the song book to your phone, this way the links in the PDF song book will work. Or you can email me back and I’ll send you a copy
Come along for a meal and a pint, with singing from 7:30 onwards until we run out of voice (usually a couple of hours)!
Website: www.LeeShoreSongs.com
FB @Sunset.Coast.Shanty.Crew
email: SunsetCoastShantyCrew@gmail.com

24th February
— Merriwa Acoustic Music Club (usually monthly 4th Tuesday)
Merriwa Acoustic Music Club (MAMC) is normally held every 4th Tuesday of each month at Jenolan Way Community Centre in Merriwa (very near the end of the highway north with lots of safe parking). MAMC has a simple ‘sing around’ format with each participant getting to preform two songs (or whatever it is you do… poem, dance, etc.) each cycle through the group. Everyone from complete beginners to accomplished performers are welcome. All types of instruments are also welcomed as is almost any style of music (bluegrass, folk, pop, rock, and more). We additionally have a featured club member lead the group in trying out and learning a new song together each month. MAMC has a purpose for fun, learning, encouragement, and in it’s small way – community service. If you would like to know more write: Oakyfolky@msn.com.
Also… just a reminder that our “Song Writing Workshop” will be Saturday 6 July from 1 PM until 5 PM. Mark your calendars. It will be very affordable for club members. More details will soon follow.

26th February
— Bunbury Folk Club. (4th Thursday)
Bunbury Mission To Seafarers. 7-9pm
Looking forward to seeing you all. Put your name on the blackboard to perform or just come along to listen and enjoy the atmosphere.

27th February
— Folk and Shanty Club. (Monthly, last Friday) TBC
Albany King River Hall 7pm-10pm
“The Albany Folk & Shanty Club” is hosted by “Amity Rogues ” on the last Friday of each month. Open mic night where you are invited to sing shanties, folk, traditional, recite poetry, play some tunes…and everything in between. Admission is $5/person, $10 per family, to help pay for the hire of the hall. BYO drinks and nibbles. Free hot drinks available. Family friendly

27 Feb – 2 Mar 2026
— Nannup Music Festival 2026 .
A true music lover’s festival, the 37th Nannup Music Festival will present an eclectic mix of original live acts over the WA Labour Day long weekend, on 27 Feb – 2 Mar 2026, set to the stunning backdrop of Western Australia’s South West and of the regional town of Nannup. The awarded festival will showcase a diverse lineup of over 100 WA, national and international acts, across free and ticketed stages. Framed by the NMF’s Nannup Emerging Artists Award, Remote Aboriginal Artist Development program, a variety of workshops, kids’ activities, camping, food vendors and artisan markets, the NMF promises and delivers an inspiring weekend of discovery, enjoyed by thousands of ticket holders and visitors.
https://www.nannupmusicfestival.org/

27-29 March 2026
— Playmakers 2026 .
Playmakers is a three-day music festival featuring workshops and performances, in the beautiful bushland setting of Fairbridge Village, Pinjarra.
View the line-up as it’s released here: https://playmakerswa.com.au/programme/
Tickets & accommodation bookings here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1471567
Playmakers 2026 is brought to you in partnership with Little Folk Inc.

17-19 April
— FAIRBRIDGE FESTIVAL 2026.
Fairbridge Village, Pinjarra. FAIRBRIDGE FESTIVAL 2026 IS CALLING — THE COUNTDOWN IS ON! Members pre-release tickets NOW available
You may have heard the whispers… and yes, they’re true: Fairbridge Festival is coming home. We’re returning to where it all began – Fairbridge Village to rekindle the spirit that made this festival such a cherished part of Western Australia’s cultural landscape. After some challenging years, we’re rebuilding with care, passion, and purpose – smaller to start with, but rich in heart, music, and meaning. We’re literally banking on the support from our loyal base that has supported the festival since its inception in 1993. Of course, new people are always welcome to experience this unique event. The entirely volunteer-run committee is working towards reinstating Fairbridge Festival to its rightful place as WA’s favourite family music festival – a joyful meeting place for generations of music lovers, artists, and friends. Back to a grass roots music aficionados’ event with the three-festivals-in-one format – kids, youth and adults – it was renowned for.
MEMBER PRE-RELEASE: Sunday 9 November for one week only FolkWorld financial (Ordinary) members will enjoy exclusive early access to discounted tickets, camping and coveted cottage accommodation before the public release later this month.
If not yet a member, there’s still time to join via here. Members will be issued with a password and direct booking link. To be eligble, registrations must be received no later than 5pm Wednesday 12 November.
EARLY BIRD PRICING FOR NON-MEMBERS Early bird tickets open 23 November and run until 31 December. Although not live yet, for reference, some ticket details are available here.
OPPORTUNITIES TO BE INVOLVED We’re rebuilding Fairbridge Festival the way it began powered by volunteers. We truly appreciate the public’s patience and enthusiasm as we navigate this return together. Information for markets, artists and volunteers will be released soon. In the meantime, enquiries can be directed to www 17 – 19 April 2026 Fairbridge Village, Pinjarra FAIRBRIDGE FESTIVAL 2026 IS CALLING — THE COUNTDOWN IS ON! Members pre-release tickets NOW available You may have heard the whispers… and yes, they’re true: Fairbridge Festival is coming home. We’re returning to where it all began – Fairbridge Village to rekindle the spirit that made this festival such a cherished part of Western Australia’s cultural landscape. After some challenging years, we’re rebuilding with care, passion, and purpose – smaller to start with, but rich in heart, music, and meaning. We’re literally banking on the support from our loyal base that has supported the festival since its inception in 1993. Of course, new people are always welcome to experience this unique event. The entirely volunteer-run committee is working towards reinstating Fairbridge Festival to its rightful place as WA’s favourite family music festival – a joyful meeting place for generations of music lovers, artists, and friends. Back to a grass roots music aficionados’ event with the three-festivals-in-one format – kids, youth and adults – it was renowned for. MEMBER PRE-RELEASE: Sunday 9 November for one week only FolkWorld financial (Ordinary) members will enjoy exclusive early access to discounted tickets, camping and coveted cottage accommodation before the public release later this month. If not yet a member, there’s still time to join via here. Members will be issued with a password and direct booking link. To be eligble, registrations must be received no later than 5pm Wednesday 12 November. EARLY BIRD PRICING FOR NON-MEMBERS Early bird tickets open 23 November and run until 31 December. Although not live yet, for reference, some ticket details are available here. OPPORTUNITIES TO BE INVOLVED We’re rebuilding Fairbridge Festival the way it began powered by volunteers. We truly appreciate the public’s patience and enthusiasm as we navigate this return together. Information for markets, artists and volunteers will be released soon. In the meantime, enquiries can be directed to www.hello@folkworld.com.au.
THE MUSIC At least one international and one interstate artist have already been confirmed but we’re keeping our powder dry for a BIG artist announcement much like we always did.. For more details, interview and pic requests, please contact: Leanne Casellas | leannecasellas@gmail.com | 0449 020 536

April 19 2026
— Marlee Morris.
Heritage Month – Morris Dance Performance, Cathedral Square Sessions 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Price: Free sessions
Celebrate the patron saint of England with a lively Morris dance performance set in the shadow of the cathedral. Listen for the jingle of bells and the thwack of sticks, admire the fluttering hankies and intricate footwork — and you might even be invited to join in.
Marlee Morris bring the folk traditions of rural England to life with a distinctly contemporary Western Australian energy. Many of their dances have been passed down through generations in villages across southwest England, while others come from the wilder border traditions between England and Wales. Their name, Marlee, comes from the Noongar word for Black Swan, which also inspires their striking black, feather-like tatter coats. They are accompanied by a band of talented musicians, adding rhythm, colour and joy to this vibrant celebration.
A photographer will be capturing moments throughout the event. If you prefer not to be photographed or filmed, kindly inform a member of our team. Thank you!
Don’t forget — valet parking is available at COMO The Treasury, 1 Cathedral Avenue.

WEST AUSTRALIAN FOLK FEDERATION INC.