Young musicians took centre stage on Friday night, with Inverell’s Bethany Pearse crowned the winner of the second annual Battle on the Bank.
More than 400 people packed Campbell Park for the youth-led event, with ten emerging music acts aged 12–24 competing for the 2026 title.
Bethany impressed the crowd with her smooth and soulful performance of Norah Jones’ Don’t Know Why, earning a standing ovation and taking out first place in the 2026 Battle on the Bank.
The duo Eliza and Dani claimed second place, winning over the crowd with their Dolly Parton tribute 9 to 5, while Tamworth band The Horizon took third place with an anthemic performance of Jet’s Are You Gonna Be My Girl?
Led by the Youth Think Tank Team (Y3T) and supported by funding from Squadron Energy, Battle on the Bank saw young performers from across the region participate, including artists from Warialda, Glen Innes, Tamworth, Armidale and Inverell.
Y3T member Hollie Purvis congratulated all the performers for stepping up, sharing their talent and putting on a fantastic night of entertainment.
“We’re so grateful to the participants taking to the stage, the crowd for getting behind our performers, and to all of the food stalls and supporters who helped make the night happen,” Hollie said.
The night also featured special guest performances from 2025 Battle on the Bank winner, Peyton Childs, Armidale-based rap artist BLAKKSOL and also DJ Darkhorse.
With free live music, food stalls and plenty of local talent on show, Battle on the Bank once again provided a platform for young people to perform, connect with the community and celebrate the end of school term.
And the news is already out — Battle on the Bank will return for Volume 3 in 2027.
Media Release: Lady Bug Projects
