Great Southern Nights 2025: Music & Coastal Escapes
If you're keen on catching Meg Washington, Matt Corby, Ngaiire, and the chance to explore stunning coastal spots, then Great Southern Nights 2025 offers the perfect opportunity.
Ngaiire, Matt Corby, Meg Washington (Source: Supplied, Josephine Cubis)
If you're keen on some great live music and the chance to explore some of the most stunning coastal spots on the East Coast, then Great Southern Nights 2025 is the perfect excuse.
Whether you're heading to the beaches of Byron Bay, soaking up the chilled vibes of Tilba, or diving into the vibrant scene in Newcastle, there's something for every type of music lover. Here’s The Music’s round-up of the top locations to visit and the gigs you definitely don’t want to miss.
Byron Bay
Byron Bay is the kind of place where streets feel laden with music. With its laid-back, no shoes beach culture, the town has long been a hotspot for live music lovers. This year’s Great Southern Nights line-up has some top-tier gigs that’ll have you tapping your feet in the sand.
The Beach Hotel is where you'll catch Boy & Bear. These guys have been around for a while and still know how to bring the goods. With their folk-influenced indie sound, they are quite literally the perfect vibe for Byron. Then, there’s Crooked Colours, who will be playing a set that’s guaranteed to keep the energy up with their mix of indie, electronic, and dance grooves. It's a great spot to catch them with the ocean breeze in your face.
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For those looking for something a bit more intimate, Meg Washington at Byron Bay Theatre is your ticket. Her unique sound and soulful lyrics are sure to create a special moment. Nai Palm, best known as the frontwoman of Hiatus Kaiyote, will also be performing at the Beach Hotel. Her experimental and soulful style is definitely not to be missed.
For those wanting a little bit more action, don’t forget Fanning Dempsey National Park at Beach Hotel, who will bring fresh rock and roll energy to the stage, or Matt Corby at The Green Room. His folk-rock vibe will set the mood perfectly for an evening under a bruised peach sky.
Central Coast
Just up the road from Sydney, the Central Coast is the place for a more chilled-out getaway. The beaches here are stunning, and the music scene is growing, with plenty of small venues giving you a front-row seat to some great local talent.
The Sunken Monkey in Gosford will host The Rions, who will bring their high-energy rock sound to the venue. Telenova will also be playing here, offering a more relaxed, indie-electronic vibe perfect for a night out with mates. You’ll also want to catch Marcia Hines at The Art House in Wyong. A true Aussie legend, Hines will deliver a show packed with soul and powerhouse vocals.
If you’re in the mood for some more raw rock energy, head to Drifters Wharf in Ettalong Beach for The Grogans. These guys are all about that garage rock sound, so expect a lively, raucous set that’ll keep you moving all night.
For something a little different, Baby Animals will be rocking Doyalson RSL, and Troy Cassar-Daley will be bringing his country sound to The Art House. Ngaiire will also be performing at Warner’s Bay Theatre, delivering her soul and electronic-infused melodies for an unforgettable experience.
Newcastle
Newcastle is known for its gritty charm, and the live music scene there reflects that. The King St Bandroom is a staple in the city, and it’s where you'll find Winston Surfshirt bringing their smooth mix of soul, funk, and R&B to the crowd. They’ve got a reputation for creating a great vibe, so you know this one will be a crowd-pleaser. You can also catch King Stingray at King St Bandroom, blending rock with Indigenous sounds to create something totally unique.
The King St Warehouse will also be home to Full Flower Moon Band, who'll be mixing up psychedelic rock vibes, as well as Slumberjack and Running Touch. Both acts are great for those who want to dance to some killer electronic beats.
If you’re after something a little more classic, The Cruel Sea and SIX60 will be performing at Bar on the Hill. Both bands have massive followings, with The Cruel Sea delivering their Aussie rock staples, while SIX60 brings their laid-back Kiwi vibes that’ll be perfect for a summer night.
Newcastle also has its share of intimate spots. Boo Seeka’s sold-out show at Ravella’s will be one of those nights you’ll remember for a long time. Meanwhile, Xavier Rudd at Dashville is set to be a more mellow experience, with his blend of folk, world music, and earthy rhythms fitting perfectly with the Hunter Valley landscape. The Belair Lip Bombs will also be playing at King St Warehouse, so be sure not to miss their high-energy rock set.
Wollongong
Wollongong is fast becoming a go-to for great live music, thanks to its stunning scenery and vibrant arts scene. Anita’s Theatre is one of the best venues in the area, and this year it will host some massive shows, including Birds Of Tokyo, Missy Higgins, and Noiseworks. Birds Of Tokyo’s anthemic rock sound will definitely get the crowd pumped, while Missy Higgins’ heartfelt ballads and Noiseworks’ iconic Aussie rock will be highlights for many.
If you're in the mood for something a little more up-tempo, The Cat Empire will be performing at Anita’s Theatre, bringing their energetic mix of jazz, funk, and Latin rhythms. For something a bit more alternative, UOW Unibar will feature WAAX and Northeast Party House. These two killer indie acts that are bound to pack the venue.
There’s more to Wollongong’s music scene than the big names though. Catch Emily Wurramara and Emma Pask at The Music Lounge, where they’ll be offering soulful, heartfelt performances. If you’re after something a bit more experimental, check out Gut Health at La La La’s or Satin Cali at UOW Unibar.
Also, don't miss Sesame Girl at UOW Courtyard, offering up some laid-back vibes with their indie-pop sound. And for some electronic vibes, The Presets will be playing at Waves, bringing their iconic electro-pop beats to the stage.
Tilba
For something a bit off the beaten track, Tilba is the place to head. This charming village on the South Coast offers the perfect escape for those looking to unwind. Here the Valley Winery & Ale House will host Ziggy Alberts for an intimate acoustic set. Ziggy’s laid-back folk vibe fits perfectly with the peaceful surroundings of Tilba, making it an idyllic place for a relaxed evening of music accompanied by a wine or two.
Great Southern Nights 2025 is your excuse to hit the road, soak up the sun, and enjoy some of the best live music Australia has to offer. Whether you’re grooving to Crooked Colours in Byron, catching Marcia Hines on the Central Coast, or rocking out with The Cruel Sea in Newcastle, it’s a celebration of both our coastal beauty and musical talent.
Grab your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to explore.
Tickets to the 2025 Great Southern Nights series are available here.
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