Album Launch: The Great Australian Lap Australia’s beloved Australiana band, The Bushwackers, are set to light up Belconnen with a special concert at Belco Arts, celebrating the official release of their new album, The Great Australian Lap. Formed in 1971, The Bushwackers have a storied career spanning over five decades. The band has released 26 albums, won three Golden Guitar Awards, been inducted into the Roll of Renown, and published six songbooks. Known for their energetic performances, they have captivated audiences across Australia and beyond, earning their place as one of the nation’s most celebrated musical acts. In 2023, band leaders Dobe Newton and Roger Corbett made a memorable appearance on the TV show The Voice, where their rendition of “I Am Australian”, co-written by Dobe, turned four chairs and became a social media sensation, attracting a new wave of fans. The current lineup features not only Newton and Corbett plus drummer Dave Roberts, but also rising stars Rory Phillips, a 17-year-old singer/guitarist from Tumut, and 23-year-old fiddle virtuoso Gabi Louise. “We love having young people perform with us,” says Roger. “Their energy and enthusiasm keep us young.” Dobe adds, “The level of musicianship these youngsters bring is astonishing, and we love having them as part of our band.”