For 2017, The Bushwackers Bush Band, Gleny Ray Virus, Whiskey Dram, Henk Groot and Stringline will feature among blackboard concerts, sessions, workshops, poet’s breakfasts, guitar and song writing comps, and a New Year’s Eve Bush Dance.

Singer-songwriter Stu Tyrrell’s original material speaks of social justice and solidarity through experiences of love, loss, depression and triumph. Breathing new life into traditional English and Celtic Folk songs, Stu re-imagines them into stomping arrangements with a decidedly Australian roots flavour.

A regular on the festival stage; Stu has played the Australian Celtic Festival, Beechworth Celtic Festival, and Kilmore Celtic Festival. He also won the 2016 Gulgong Folk Festival Guitar Competition!

Stu Tyrrell’s Funky Lizard Sessions is available to stream or download via Bandcamp. Funky Lizard Sessions was recorded at Newcastle’s Funky Lizard Studios in March 2017.

The half-day recording session with Robbie Long was Stu’s prize for winning the 2016 Gulgong Folk Festival Guitar Competition; track 01 Celtic Medley being the winning composition. Stu Tyrrell’s Celtic Medley is a combination of Celtic Roots arrangements that feature on Stu’s debut EP Celtic Roots. For more information visit www.gulgongfolkfestival.net.au.

CEO Jennifer Crust thanked all the staff for their hard work and the excellent care they take of the residents. She then went on to thank all the volunteers who give of their time in a selfless manner and honored them by reciting a poem especially dedicated to volunteers.

Jennifer finished off by thanking the new Board of Directors, Bill Clifford (Chairman), Rob Barton. Rob and Roma Leslie, Ken Mole, Pat Clifford (Secretary) and Col Bailey.

After lunch the residents were entertained by brothers, Bruce and Ross Kurtz who sang Christmas Carols and old songs requested by the residents. Judging by all the happy faces a great day was had by all. Wishing you all a very merry Christmas.