Saturday, 2nd May 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 26th February 2026, 2:24 PM
The Winter Blues Festival is set to return to Echuca in 2026, promising four days of world-class blues and roots music across the Murray Region. Long celebrated as a grassroots, immersive event, Winter Blues transforms the twin towns of Echuca–Moama into a vibrant live music hub each winter, filling venues, streets, and the riverfront with unforgettable performances that captivate audiences from across Australia.
The festival has become a cornerstone of the Australian music calendar, offering music lovers an opportunity to reconnect with old friends, forge new connections, and immerse themselves in the soulful energy of live blues and roots. Beyond its artistic impact, Winter Blues fosters community engagement and regional pride, drawing audiences from near and far to experience the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
Following another remarkable year of performances, community engagement, and tourism impact, organisers have proudly announced the first wave of artists for the 2026 festival.
| Artist/Band | Notes |
|---|---|
| 19 Twenty | Returning for their 11th appearance |
| Cam Walter Blues | Renowned local blues band |
| Cass Eager | Soulful blues vocalist |
| Eddy and the Exciters | High-energy live performances |
| Elly Poletti | Rising talent in roots music |
| Frank Sultana Blues Band | Blues “Hall of Fame” member |
| Geoff Achison and The Souldiggers | Veteran guitarist and ensemble |
| The Honey Badgers | Popular regional band |
| Jack and The Axes | Emerging roots band |
| Jesse Redwing | Songwriter and performer |
| Jesse Valach & The Testaments | Innovative new act |
| Kathleen Halloran | Emerging blues talent |
| Liza Ohlback & The Mercy Train | Soulful blues and roots fusion |
| Nathan Cavaleri | Celebrated guitarist |
| Oscar LaDell | Up-and-coming local artist |
| Otis Namrell Band | Inspirational new ensemble |
| Ray Beadle | Renowned blues vocalist |
| Sam Buckley Band | Contemporary roots ensemble |
| Sammy Owen Blues Band | Classic blues performers |
| Sweet Felicia and The Honeytones | Iconic blues “Hall of Fame” artists |
Jon Howell, the festival’s music programmer, said, “I am thrilled to be programming my fifth Winter Blues Festival this year. Over this time, the festival has grown into the premier platform for Australia’s finest blues and roots artists. We are delighted to welcome 19 Twenty back for their 11th appearance and to present Hall of Fame artists like Sweet Felicia, Geoff Achison, Ray Beadle, Liza Ohlback, and Frank Sultana alongside some truly inspirational emerging artists, including Jack and The Axes, Elly Poletti, Kathleen Halloran, and Otis Namrell. This first announcement is just a taste; we have big surprises planned for the second announcement and are aiming for our strongest line-up ever.”
Winter Blues Festival is more than a music event; it is a driver of economic, cultural, and social vitality. Each year, the festival delivers tangible benefits across the region, including:
Boosted winter tourism with increased visitor numbers.
Strengthened local economy through trade at accommodation providers, cafés, restaurants, and retailers.
Employment opportunities for hospitality, production, and event staff.
Performance platforms for both established Australian artists and emerging talent.
Enhanced national profile for Echuca-Moama as a live music and cultural destination.
By connecting artists, audiences, venues, and local businesses, Winter Blues fosters cultural identity and regional pride while supporting the broader community. Far from being merely a festival, it is a celebration of music, community, and the unique spirit of Echuca–Moama.
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