Review: Middies Festival 2026 — Albany’s Beach Became a Music Community

5 days ago
4 min read

What an epic evening on the beach Middies Festival turned out to be.

It began deceptively small. Early in the afternoon, the crowd arrived slowly, drifting in after the official start time, exploring the space, grabbing food, reconnecting with friends.

But by the end of the night? That grassy patch overlooking Middleton Beach was packed — people dancing, laughing, and fully immersed in the music.

For a first-year festival, Middies created something special.

The staff and organisers deserve real credit. From the moment gates opened to the final beats, everything ran smoothly. After such a long day on their feet, they were still smiling, still celebrating. That kind of energy doesn’t happen by accident — it comes from genuine love for music and community.

The festival itself offered more than just performances. Food vans served incredible dishes, the licensed bar kept spirits high, and there was plenty of room for picnics, friends, and sunset moments. It felt less like an event and more like a shared coastal celebration.

Setting the Tone

DJ James Thorne opened the afternoon and immediately got people moving. His ability to read a crowd was obvious from the start. Whether you were near the stage or wandering the grounds, his mix of crowd favourites had people singing and dancing before they even realised it.

Later in the night, he would return to lift the energy again — and he absolutely delivered.

Rising Artists, Big Moments

Next up were Lights Out, stepping onto the biggest stage of their journey so far. There’s something powerful about watching emerging artists in these moments. Festival crowds can be tough early in the day — people are still arriving and settling in — but this band embraced the opportunity.

Their confidence grew with every song. The lead singer found her rhythm connecting with the audience, while standout electric guitar solos (from her younger brother) added real excitement. If this is where they are at the beginning, their future looks bright.

Jack Hamilton followed, bringing a different kind of intensity. His soulful vocals and emotional delivery pulled the audience closer. You could see the chemistry between him and his band — especially the way he gave each musician space to shine. It wasn’t just about performance; it was connection.

By this point, the crowd had locked into the festival mood. People danced, sang along, and allowed themselves to be fully present.

Golden Hour Magic

Lazy Haze arrived just as the sun dipped into that golden coastal haze — the perfect visual backdrop for their breezy indie-rock sound. They brought infectious energy and genuine warmth.

One of the most touching moments of the day came when the band reminded the crowd to tell their mums they loved them. It was simple, heartfelt, and deeply human. Watching 91-year-old superfan Shirley enjoying the music in the audience captured exactly what live music is about — connection across generations.

They played with quiet confidence and authenticity. Even if you didn’t know their songs, their energy made it impossible not to move.

Building Momentum

Ruby Hoo took the stage next, pulling the crowd deeper into the night. The atmosphere shifted darker and more electric as the stage lighting intensified. Their raspy vocals and emotional presence drew people in, and the audience responded loudly — singing, cheering, and fully engaged.

It’s easy to see why they’re building such a strong following. If this is the level they’re at now, Ruby Hoo have the potential to become one of Australia’s standout live acts.

Dear Sunday followed with seasoned confidence. Their experience showed in their stage control and identity as a band. They balanced professionalism with fun, bringing beach balls into the crowd and encouraging full audience participation.

When Hannah joined them from the crowd to sing Teenage Dirtbag, the crowd erupted. These spontaneous moments are what festivals are remembered for!

Headliners Who Delivered

By the time Beddy Rays hit the stage, the crowd was ready. Their set was explosive — full of energy, sparks, beach balls, and pure connection. The band were completely comfortable, playful with each other and the audience.

When they launched into Highway to Hell, the entire crowd took over the vocals. Albany singing together under the night sky was unforgettable.

Their original songs were just as powerful, with fans singing every word. It was chaotic, joyful, and over far too quickly.

Closing the Night

DJ James Thorne returned to keep the party alive, lifting the energy once more. Although I slipped away before the final act, everything seen and heard the next morning confirmed that DJ 3 Stripes delivered an incredible closing set!

A Personal Moment

For me, this night carried deeper meaning.

My partner of 24 years had been encouraging me to push BTN forward and seek media opportunities like this - specifically Middies Festival. Losing him in December made this event bittersweet.

But standing there, camera in hand, surrounded by music and community, I knew I had made the right choice.

This is what he believed in.

And this is what BTN will continue to build.