The countdown is on for the Bell Beats Music & Arts Festival, set to take place over the Saturday of the October long weekend in Cowra.
While big names such as Budjerah, Steph Strings, and Stewart Barton are already turning heads on the lineup, this year’s festival will also be a powerful showcase of local talent, highlighting the musicians who call the Central West home.
Festival Project Manager Jarrad Shiells said the inclusion of Cowra artists is central to Bell Beats’ vision.
“Giving local artists a stage alongside some of the country’s best is at the heart of what Bell Beats is about,” Mr Shiells said.
“It’s not just about bringing music to Cowra, it’s about showing what Cowra brings to music.”
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For Shane Kerr, Bell Beats offers something new, an opportunity to move beyond private functions and into a community-driven event.
“It feels really good to be involved in something that is so heavily community focused,” Mr Kerr said.
“It’s a big change for me, because a lot of my work is playing in clubs and pubs and functions, private functions.”
“It’s great to be involved in something within the community," he said.
Shane’s music, rooted in country, roots, and folk traditions, carries sincerity that resonates deeply with local audiences.
His performance at Bell Beats is expected to capture both the heart and identity of regional Australia.
Another highlight of the local lineup is Emily Reynolds, who grew up in Cowra and draws inspiration for her songs from her own life and community.
For Emily, performing at Bell Beats is a homecoming.
“I’m really looking forward to playing at Bell Beats Festival in Cowra,” Ms Reynolds said.
“I was born and raised here, so performing for friends, family and everyone around town feels pretty special.”
“Most of my songs are about my life here, my family, growing up, and the different things that make Cowra home.”
“I’ve got a few fun songs too,” she said.
Emily describes her style as “folky with a little country influence, mostly upbeat and easy to listen to”.
Her set will feature a collaboration with close friend and fellow musician Dom Lenarduzzi, who brings guitar mastery, production skill, and percussive flair.
“Between us, we’ll have two guitars, a harmonica, a kick drum, and some percussion to bring the songs to life,” Ms Reynolds said.
“I am hoping to record some of these songs at the end of this year, so if you would like to follow my page to stay up to date for when they come out, you can find me on socials.”
Bell Beats 2025 is ensuring Cowra’s voices are front and centre:
Mark Corkery, a seasoned favourite in the region, will deliver his folk-rock storytelling that captures the essence of country living.
Shane Kerr will bring his raw, heartfelt acoustic sound to the stage.
Emily Reynolds and Dom Lenarduzzi promise a soulful, folky set filled with Cowra-inspired songwriting.
These local acts are not just performers, they are storytellers, ambassadors, and examples of how regional Australia continues to shape the national music conversation.
The presence of local artists on the same stage as national headliners reinforces Bell Beats’ mission: to celebrate culture, creativity, and community.
Their songs may be written in lounge rooms, backyards, and rehearsal spaces across Cowra, but their stories resonate far beyond.
For audiences, this is a rare chance to experience homegrown music in a festival setting, music that is as authentic as the soil it springs from.
Bell Beats 2025 will be a stage where the local shines just as bright as the national.
Tickets are essential, find out more at www.bellbeats.com
