Roll-in Day BRB2019

We were up bright and early as we had an idea the road out to “Bashville” (thats what they call the site) could be busy. As we headed on out we were really impressed at the welcome at the gates and how quickly we were escorted to our camp spot. Lots of cars, dust and people about but generally a smooth and stress free experience.

We set up in a flash like the seasoned professionals that we are. After meeting the new neighbours we loaded the esky and promptly headed to the concert area.

There was soon and official opening of the ‘Bash done by important people. A very moving “Welcome To Country” was actually a highlight of the day for us as we have become very aware of acknowledging the traditional owners of the land we are so privileged to experience.

The national anthem was included in this ceremony with half of it being sung in what I assume is the local dialect (think of the style the NZ anthem is presented). It was brillant and we would love to see this done all the time.

Dale Ryder of Boom Crash Opera, was first up and brought back many happy memories of seeing BCO at Patricks Night Club in Penant Hills… 30 years ago! The likes of Mark Williams and Richard Clapton kept the memories flooding back.

One of the best acts on the first night was Steve Balbi of Noiseworks fame. He has been a solo act for a lot of years now and did not disappoint.

He put in a great set consisting of mainly his own material but also a few wildly reworked Noiseworks classics. I will be sure not to miss him when he is next in Orange as he was fantastic.

The next two days were so epic I am going to blog them up in a second post.