There’s something special about road-tripping out to the wheatbelt where the flies come out to play, the stars shine bright over the dusty roads and the smoky campfires bring everyone together. Wave Rock Weekender

is just this.

Set literally against the backdrop of Hyden’s famous Wave Rock, the festival is a tradition for many. With a roughly 800-person capacity and a line-up released just days ahead of the festival itself, it’s obvious punters are there for the full experience – and the music is only one aspect of what’s on offer.

With movies and docos playing 24/7 in an old bus decked out as a cinema, a speakeasy bar, yoga and knitting sessions as well as nearby attractions such as the Wave Rock Wildlife Park, the picturesque salt lakes and of course Wave Rock itself, there’s something for everyone.

But, it was about the Grand Final on Saturday afternoon for some whilst Davey Craddock & The Spectacles kicked off the weekend’s festivities. The rain didn’t stop the dancing when New Orleans jazz crew Tuba Skinny took to the stage. Melbourne’s bluesy, rock’n’roll lady Mojo Juju smashed out a ripper set filled with flair , dirty jokes and tales and one boisterously ballsy voice that stole the night. King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard warmed the lively crowd with their noisy riffs and fuzzy jams before Little Bastard closed the evening with their jangly punk-string tangle tunes.

Country-blues lad Archer helped ease the Sunday morning struggle with his gentle lullabies before New Zealand songstress Aldous Harding dished out some gothic folk, lightening up her set with one liners like “sing along to this… if you’re a singer” and witty banter with friend and fellow NZ musician Marlon Williams, who joined her for part of her set.

But it was human beat-boxing legend Tom Thum who proved the refreshing and undeniable entertainment for the afternoon, getting everyone dancing to his didgeridoo, electronic and jazzy beats, all created by his own voice. Thum even joined The Cat Empire for part of their two-hour epic set, partaking in scratch, trumpet and drum battles using only his vocal prowess. Busting out new beats and digging out old classics like The Chariot, One Four Five and Hello, The Cat Empire were the perfect ending to a grand weekend that saw all feet dancing and all hands in the air.