HOT on the heels of the Valla Rod Run, another significant cultural event has brought visitors to the Nambucca Valley in their hundreds.
The sound of strumming strings, soulful singing, and spirited seaside sessions echoed across Valla Beach recently as the biennial Valla Beach Ukulele Camp and Beach Party wrapped up a jubilant three-day celebration of music, workshops, and musical connection.
Hosted by much-loved local ukulele duo The Wild Women of Anywhere Beach, Cathy Welsford and Angie Smith, the event brought together 200 ukulele, harmonica, and bass players from across New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, Queensland, and South Australia.
Local accommodation was booked out months in advance, as music lovers flooded in for the uniquely coastal musical experience.
The success of the event was made possible thanks to the support of sixteen local volunteers and generous sponsorship from Valla Beach Holiday Park, Valla Beach Pharmacy, Ukulele Mate Sydney, Jacks Music Newcastle, Ukewarriors SA, Sally’s Ukulele, Original Cyn, and the sister festival Launceston Ukulele Jamboree.
The organisers focused on delivering high-quality music workshops designed to build skills and confidence in players of all levels, offering sessions on jazz styles, vocal techniques, performance, songwriting, improvisation, and collaboration across instruments.
Performances throughout the weekend delighted crowds with a vibrant lineup featuring some of the country’s music educators and performers.
Jazz legend Sam Lemann, recently returned from Nashville, shared the stage with Melbourne’s Cate Jardine and Betty France, Sydney rockers Lindy and the Loose Units, Queensland folk favourites Accidentally on Purpose, and the returning Wild Women of Anywhere Beach, fresh off a five-state and New Zealand tour.
Also featured were Urunga’s celebrated bassist Anne Keogh, local jazz group Blue Gum Blossom, Newcastle ensemble Jack’n’Jel’n’Mac’n’Wal, and the Ukastle Ukestra, which recently claimed victory in the National Folk Festival’s Infinite Song Contest.
Daytime concerts included performances by regional ukulele groups from Valla Beach, Sawtell, Yamba, Ballina, and Woolgoolga, highlighting the event’s grassroots community spirit and wide appeal.
“The mix of skill-building, seaside socialising, and amazing performances made the weekend a standout, not just on the national ukulele calendar but on the musical calendar,” one of the attendees told News Of The Area.
Co-host Angie Smith encouraged anyone inspired by the weekend to pick up an instrument and get involved, inviting locals to join the Valla Beach Garage Band.
Interested players can contact Angie on 0417 657 411 for more information.
By Mick BIRTLES
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