Dylan Cosgriff and the Omens took out the best band category at the 2024 Battle of the Bands in January. Photos: Christine Knight
Meghan Guy, Hypnotic State and Rusted Blood are some of the local acts lining up for this year’s North East Battle of the Bands heat in Benalla.
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Along with others, these young musicians will be in the second heat of the FReeZA-funded competition to be held at the Benalla Town Hall on Saturday, September 21, from 6pm.
The North East Battle of the Bands is a collaboration between seven municipal councils, each facilitating a music festival which is planned and managed by local youth.
The competition attracts young emerging and experienced soloists, duos and bands to perform an array of music genres, including rock, grunge and metal.
The winners of the Benalla heat will be given the opportunity to perform on stage at Benalla by the Lake, as part of the 2024 Benalla Festival.
Samara Bright was named best solo artist at the 2024 Battle of the Bands in January.
One band and one acoustic act from each heat over the coming months will progress to the regional final to be held in Albury later in the year.
Entry is free to this all-age music festival, and anyone under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
This a fully supervised and drug, alcohol, smoke and vape-free event with no pass outs.
Whether competing or in the crowd, Battle of the Bands is a highlight on the social calendar for many young people.
The event gives musicians a platform to develop their stage performance in a safe, supportive environment, while the council-led FReeZA Crew gain skills and experience in planning and event management.
For more information, phone Benalla Rural City Council’s youth engagement team on (03) 5760 2600 or visit the Wots4Me Benalla Youth Facebook page.