Nowa Nowa residents unite with Snowy River Mail
The quaint community of Nowa Nowa has garnered attention for hosting distinct live music gatherings that bring people together in natural surroundings. This month, the town is preparing for the SolarFolk Music Festival, where a lineup of folk artists will perform using a solar sound system against the backdrop of the Nowa Nowa Recreation Reserve. This festival is organized by Nowa Nowa Live, an offshoot of the Nowa Nowa Futures Project, a local venture funded through DEECA that is delving into how arts, culture, and nature can enrich community life and fortify the town’s future.
The primary focus of these events is to create authentic experiences that resonate with Nowa Nowa – intimate, sustainable, and inviting. Kristen, one of the organizers, emphasized, “It’s about bringing live music and contemporary artists to Nowa Nowa and establishing relaxed, family-oriented events that showcase our stunning outdoor spaces.” The interest in the festival has been substantial, with over 250 tickets already sold. To maintain the event’s ambiance, attendance has been capped at 400 individuals to ensure an intimate and memorable experience for both performers and the audience.
The sounds of music will fill the air from afternoon into the evening, all powered by solar energy. Aside from the musical performances, attendees can enjoy food trucks, local stalls, and opportunities for camping or bus transportation, creating a laid-back festival vibe while keeping its community essence intact. SolarFolk is part of a larger strategy for Nowa Nowa; the Futures Project aims to leverage the town’s environment, culture, and creative vitality to shape its tomorrow. Festivals like SolarFolk manifest this vision – a realm where visitors and locals can sit under the trees, savor music by the glow of the fire, and witness how a small town can serve as a guiding light.
SolarFolk will be Nowa Nowa Live’s inaugural festival and will feature an astounding lineup of talented artists, including Steph Strings, The McCredie Brothers, Sunday Lemonade, JC & the Tree, Harry Hook is Real, and Jack Raymond. More information and tickets for the event can be accessed online.
The artists participating in the festival each bring a unique flair to the stage. Steph Strings, originally from Melbourne, infuses her music with elements of blues, Celtic, and folk, creating a musical tapestry that is entirely her own. The McCredie Brothers, who gained popularity through busking in Byron Bay, captivate audiences with their catchy melodies and harmonious storytelling.
Sunday Lemonade, an infectious indie folk and roots duo, have been making waves across Australia with their heartfelt folk and rock sounds. JC & The Tree, an award-winning folk fusion duo, blend genres like folk, rock, gypsy, and funk to take listeners on a musical journey. Harry Hook is Real, a powerful storyteller, connects deeply with audiences through his honest lyrics and emotive vocal delivery. Jack Raymond, known for his mountain roots style, derives inspiration from his travels and the people he has encountered, resulting in foot-stomping, blues-infused storytelling. Tom Harrington, an indie-folk artist with a rural upbringing, uses vocal looping to create a captivating sound that combines elements of country and emotive folk music.