WHAT A FEAST OF MUSIC!
THE WATER RUNNERS
are an award-winning contemporary Australian folk band from Kiama and Gerringong on the South Coast of New South Wales (Dharawal Country). Known for their bluegrass-infused sound, strong songwriting, and engaging live shows, they craft music that celebrates Australian stories, people, and landscapes.
The Water Runners have received widespread recognition for their songwriting and performances, including:
🏆 Tamworth Songwriters Association – Country Blues Award for “Viking” (2026 Tamworth Country Music Festival)
🏆 Capital Country Music Association National Songwriter of the Year for “Last Train from Central” (2026)
🏆 Australian Bush Balladeers Association – Music Excellence Award for their video “Shelter”, filmed at Jamberoo Pub and surrounds (2026)
🏆 Runners-Up, People’s Choice Award – Australian Folk Alliance / Folk Alliance Australia (2025)
🏆 Best Band & Runner-Up (Open Category) – Australian National Busking Championships, (2020)
Their song “Turn Down The Heat” was also selected by UNICEF to promote the State of the World’s Children Report, highlighting their impact beyond the stage.
Bruce Elder On the album ‘Further Down the Road’:
I think it is great fun with a truly local spin. I don’t think I have ever heard a recording that more overtly screams out “this is live, live, live. Sing along everyone … and maybe even get up and dance.”
Bruce Elder – retired journalist with The Sydney Morning Herald. Publisher of Aussie Towns online.
CHARLEY CASTLE AND THE BOYS IN THE WELL
offer an exciting new brand of Australian bluegrass, connecting elements of bygone country and folk with modern sensibilities. A fast-paced, infectious dynamic and equally catchy songs make for a holler-inducing live show for all ages. In string band style, Charley leads the boys on acoustic guitar, double bass and mandolin with harmonies galore.
The quartet are the champions of the 2025 Tamworth Country Music Festival Busking Competition of over 500 applicants. A decorated songwriter, Charley has shared the stage with likes of Daryl Braithwaite, Brian Cadd, You Am I and Thirsty Merc.
Better get yourself down to the bar…….again!!