Since the Committee of Bush Traditions decided to withdraw from running folk community based events’ folk have been asking “What does this mean for us?”

Apart from the COVID hiatus the Goulburn Gathering has been held since 2006 as an annual event that many in the Australian folk community look forward to for its musical and social benefits. Initially held in the historical ambience of the Old Goulburn Brewery and lately in the stately atmosphere of The Goulburn Club, the event has attracted many of valued performers and folklorists.

Some names that leap out of the list:

Bruce Watson, Chris Woodland, Dennis O’Keeffe*, Harry Gardiner*, Tom Walsh*, Alan Musgrove, Chris Sulliivan*, Dave de Hugard, John Warner, Martyn Wyndham-Read, Jason Roweth, Greg O’Leary, Bob McInnes, Lyell Sayer, Shayne Kerr, Ian Hayden, Ingrid Wagnel,  Bob Campbell, Andy Baylor, Ralph Pride and Garry Shearston*. As well as committee members: Sandra Martens, Peter Ellis*, Don Brian, Rob Willis, Moir Holmes, Ray Mulligan, and yours truly.

From October 2025, the Goulburn Gathering will continue under the banner of the Bush Music Club. The Goulburn Club hosted a 70th anniversary event for the BMC in 2024 and president George Bolliger is keen to support the Gathering with resources and folk.  He is certain the event will continue to provide inspiration for playing and singing and all with that characteristic welcoming inclusiveness.

Dave Johnson

Bush Music Club Life Member