Australian National Busking Championships Conclude in Stanthorpe

The Australian National Busking Championships recently concluded in Stanthorpe, Queensland, featuring dozens of musicians. The event is part of the Stanthorpe Apple and Grape Harvest Festival and serves as the second of seven heats leading to a grand final in Cooma, New South Wales.

Competition Highlights and Winners

Georgia Kelly, 14, from the Gold Coast, secured first place in the Secondary School Age category and a $500 prize. She performed The Chicks’ "Travelin' Soldier."

Kelly emphasized the unique experience of live performance compared to online platforms.

Savannah Hayes, performing as Valoura, was named Champion Open Busker, winning $1,000. She performed Nina Simone's "Feeling Good" with a saxophone in front of over 200 spectators.

Hayes noted busking as a method for artists to gain exposure and stage experience, contrasting it with the "perfectionism" often associated with online performances.

The high-school band Paper Sons, a five-piece group from Stanthorpe, won Best Band and the People's Choice award. They covered "Plush" by Stone Temple Pilots.

The band members acknowledged the challenges of live performance, including distractions from other artists.

Judging and Audience Participation

The public contributed to the People's Choice award by placing tokens in buckets for their preferred performers. A panel of five judges evaluated competitors on a main stage.

Felicity Kircher, a first-time judge and previous Tamworth Country Music Star Maker winner, provided insight into the value of busking.

Kircher stated that busking is an effective way for musicians to develop their craft and understand audiences.