These New South Whales hit the Barwon Club tonight, kicking off a raucous month of music

From punk to a Perth rapper, the BC has an eclectic mix of music on offer this May.

Twelve gigs take over the bursting bandroom of Barwon Club Hotel this month, and it all kicks off tonight with the riotous rebels, These New South Whales. The month includes the best in tribute acts, album launches, local get-togethers, and big name tours.

Dive into the massive gig guide for the beloved BC below.

Keep connected to your live music scene here.

These New South Whales – GODSPEED Album Tour

When: FRI 1 MAY

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Following the release of GODSPEED, which reached #4 on the ARIA Australian Album Charts with singles like ‘INSTINCT’ and ‘BIG MACHINE’, These New South Whales are hitting the road for their 2026 headline GODSPEED Tour. Celebrated for “irresistible” songwriting (Kerrang!) and “old-school-cool energy” (The Line of Best Fit), TNSW continues to captivate audiences in the UK, Europe, and Australia, blending infectious melodies with a fierce, heartfelt presence.

 

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Second Hand News: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac

When: FRI 8 MAY

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Second Hand News, Melbourne’s powerhouse Fleetwood Mac tribute, bring iconic hits to life with “detailed instrumentation, perfect harmonies, and deep appreciation” for the Mac songbook. From 70s blues jams to 80s pop, the six-piece—featuring Cat Sanzaro, Sean Sully, James Wingard, Freya Long, Chris Thomas-Sievers, and John Abougelis—deliver signature guitar solos and vocals with flair, transforming classics like ‘Rhiannon’, ‘The Chain’, and ‘Everywhere’ into unforgettable, electrifying performances.

3220 Sessions : Boogie Riverside, Ella Joan + Windrush

When: SAT 9 MAY
3220 Sessions returns to The Barwon Club Hotel, celebrating Geelong’s vibrant local music scene with blues, roots, soul, and R&B. Headlined by Boogie Riverside, whose groove-heavy rhythms and soulful energy ignite the room, the night also features Ella Joan’s commanding vocals and songwriting, and Windrush’s raw, hook-filled live set. Together, these acts showcase the power of live music to connect, energise, and move a crowd.

Santa Ana Rodeo (USA) – Australian Tour

When: THU 14 MAY

Santa Ana Rodeo make their Australian debut with a sound that fuses indie rock swagger, bluesy undertones, and raw live energy. Hailing from Boulder, CO, the band draws influence from The Backseat Lovers, Gary Clark Jr., and Jimi Hendrix, crafting music that balances grit with groove, heart with heat. Joined by local acts Good Wood, Bigfoot Sighting, and Munchy Dolphin, they promise an electrifying, unforgettable live experience.

Goldfields Rock Invasion

When: FRI 15 MAY

Goldfields Rock Invasion brings three of Bendigo’s best to Geelong for a night of raw rock, punk, and blues. Red Jar delivers riff-heavy, festival-honed rock with nods to Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin, while Hoodoo Heathens unleash dirty, unpolished Hoodoo Blues that bites and burns. Noog captivates with original, hook-filled songs blending blunt storytelling and nostalgic inspirations, creating a sonic experience that lingers long after the set ends.

 

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Lovin Local 3

When: SAT 16 MAY

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Floravera returns with the third edition of Lovin Local, showcasing Geelong’s thriving music scene at the Barwon Club. Six emerging acts—Left at the Avenue, Emma Yue, The Satts, Blyss, Garden Lane, and Mr Doily—bring fresh sounds spanning genres, highlighting the creativity and talent of the region. Lovin Local celebrates homegrown music, community, and discovery, offering an unmissable night for anyone eager to connect with the next wave of local artists.

Varuni Lila ‘AIR IT OUT’ Album Launch

When: FRI 22 MAY

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Varuni Lila celebrates the release of her debut album Air It Out at the Barwon Club, supported by Ella Joan and Mudbath, delivering a night of indie folk and alt-rock. Known for her captivating vocals and heartfelt songwriting, Varuni invites fans to join a playful pre-birthday themed celebration—come dressed as a character from the Shrek universe for a fun, memorable evening of music and community.

BON / FIRE : AC/DC Tribute

When: SAT 23 MAY

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BON FIRE, one of Australia’s premier AC/DC tribute bands, makes their Geelong debut at the Barwon Club Hotel. Celebrating both Bon Scott and Brian Johnson eras, they deliver high-energy performances full of powerful musicianship and audience engagement. With decades of experience and a track record of festival and interstate shows, BON FIRE channels the spirit of AC/DC, bringing iconic riffs, electrifying solos, and pure rock ’n’ roll to the stage.

Rhythm N’ Blues Boogaloo : Minnie & The Moonrakers + Ozone Street

When: SUN 24 MAY

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Barwon Club Hotel Geelong presents a Rhythm ’n’ Blues session with festival favourites Minnie and The Moonrakers and Ozone Street. Minnie and The Moonrakers deliver gritty, soulful performances with chunky rhythms and sharp guitar riffs, while Ozone Street fuses vintage blues, swamp-soaked melodies, and funk-infused energy. Seasoned and emerging musicians alike, both acts bring raw talent and unforgettable live energy, promising a one-off, powerhouse showcase of Australian blues and soul.

The Smith Street Band – ‘More like Signals Midbest Weekender’

When: SUN 24 MAY

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The Smith Street Band joins Signals Midwest (USA) for a special More Like Signals Midbest Weekender show at the Barwon Club, Geelong. Touring together for over a decade, these bands share a history of international collaboration, from US and European tours to festival appearances. Known for their heartfelt songwriting and high-energy performances, this reunion promises a rare, dynamic showcase of punk-infused rock and deep musical camaraderie.

 

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Complete – Australian Tour 2026

When: FRI 29 MAY

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Platinum-selling Perth rapper Complete hits the Barwon Club Hotel Geelong on his first national tour in over a year. Renowned for high-energy performances, goosebump-inducing stage presence, and a genuine connection with fans, Complete delivers one of Australia’s most captivating hip hop shows. Featuring hits like ‘Jordan’, ‘Roses’, and ‘Blood Stained Nikes’, alongside new singles, he is joined by Omac, Kryple (CAN), and local support for an unforgettable night of music.

What Most You Fear – Earth Cadet – Champion Motorist – The Shore

When: SAT 30 MAY

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Barwon Club presents a night of dynamic, genre-spanning music with four standout acts from Melbourne, Geelong, and Bendigo: What Most You Fear, Earth Cadet, Champion Motorist, and The Shore. From dreamy surf and smouldering post-rock to blistering alt-rock, each band delivers immersive, powerful performances. Expect violin-driven ambience, jagged riffs, fuzzed-out soundscapes, and anthemic hooks as these local talents showcase some of Victoria’s freshest and most compelling live music.

It’s a stacked month of music for our beloved late-night live music haunt. Check out the full gig guide here.

 

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