The Yellowbelly Band is set to perform live at the Wilcannia Golf Club on Friday night, November 28, 2025, from 18:00 to 22:00. Known for their energetic performances and diverse musical styles, the band has quickly gained popularity in the local music scene. With a mix of youth and experience, Yellowbelly promises an exciting evening for attendees.
Band Origins and Journey
The journey of the Yellowbelly Band began over a decade ago in Bourke, where members Stephen and Kobie grew up together. Both musicians are deeply rooted in their cultural backgrounds, with Stephen identifying as Ngemba and Kobie as Bundjalung. Their passion for music was influenced by their parents, leading them to pick up instruments during their teenage years.
The band took a significant step forward earlier this year when they opened for renowned artist Fanny Lumsden in April. They secured this opportunity when Father Oche, who joined the band as the lead guitarist and is also a Catholic priest, reached out to the local council for a spot in the lineup. In a twist of fate, Dwayne, who had not played drums in eight years, was recruited last minute. Despite the lack of practice, their impromptu performance was well-received, prompting the group to commit to regular rehearsals.
Building a Community Through Music
Since forming, Yellowbelly has dedicated themselves to honing their craft, practicing two to three times a week for several hours. Their commitment is evident, as Dwayne even practices drumming by tapping on his car’s dashboard, using drawn diagrams of the drum kit as a guide. The band members, aged 20 and 21, alongside their older counterparts, Father Oche and Dwayne, aged 50 and 51, share a passion for music that bridges their generational gap.
In the last four months, they have performed consistently, with gigs every weekend at various venues, including local pubs and community events in Bourke, Eulo, Cobar, Lightning Ridge, and Brewarrina. Their recent performance in Eulo attracted an impressive crowd of 400 to 500 people, showcasing their growing popularity.
As they prepare for their upcoming show at the Wilcannia Golf Club, the band encourages locals not to miss this opportunity to experience their unique sound and vibrant energy. The evening will also include a break for raffles, adding to the community spirit of the event.
With a strong connection to their roots and a passion for music, Yellowbelly Band is not just entertaining audiences; they are fostering a sense of community through their performances. Don’t miss the chance to see them live this Friday night at the Wilcannia Golf Club.
