Cooktown’s music-loving community was treated to an unforgettable evening of song, soul, and storytelling as the Festival of Small Halls rolled into town on Wednesday 2 July. More than 60 people filled the Shire Hall for a night of world-class live music and community connection.
The evening opened with a standout performance by Nas McLean, a young and immensely talented musician from Hope Vale. With smooth, soulful Country tunes and a voice beyond his years, Nas captivated the crowd and set a powerful tone for the evening. His heartfelt performance earned warm applause and left a lasting impression.
Headlining the night were Champagne Weather, the Canadian folk duo making their Australian debut. Their hypnotic blend of folk, roots, and modern minimalism – or what one audience member blissfull dubbed “divine rapture” – had the hall in rapt attention. Their music, described as “nautical trance” and composed in way the duo describe as “part improv and part chance,” unfolded in the moment as melodies layered, collided, and danced in and out of sync, creating a truly unique experience for each performance. As the band charmingly admitted to the crowd: “If we look surprised, it’s because we are.”
Charm of Finches, brought their signature ethereal sound to the stage, enchanting the audience with haunting harmonies and poetic lyricism. Described as the love children of Kate Bush, Stevie Nicks, Tori Amos, and Florence Welch, Melbourne-based sisters Mabel and Ivy Windred-Wornes delivered a stunning set of chamber folk “for the famished soul” — ethereal, bewitching, and absolutely beautiful to hear.
The evening also featured a fundraising BBQ and bar run by the Cooktown Horse Sports Association, adding to the warm, welcoming atmosphere and helping raise funds for a valued local group.
The Festival of Small Halls continues to be a much-loved cultural highlight for Cooktown — a celebration of music, creativity, and community spirit that brings the world to our doorstep, one hall at a time.
Charm of Finches & Champagne Weather
Charm of Finches
