With torrential rain leading up to the 2026 Mundi Mundi Bash, it’s a credit to the organisers that the event took place relatively successfully. Some 10,000 campers made it through the gates, with around a third of the camping area too boggy to be used. Those that missed out will receive full refunds. On top of that, those that were still in Broken Hill on Saturday were invited to attend, parking in the day parking area was available.
The day started off with the ever-popular Mundi Undi Run with costumes of all shapes and sizes. This was just one of the events that helped raise $150,000 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service through ticket and merchandise sales. This was in addition to the $228,000 raised by the Bush Choir for Beyond Blue, highlighting the importance of mental health support in regional and remote Australia.
Over at the Concert Area, The Radiators put on a cracking set. It’s hard to believe that the surf-punk band was formed in 1978. I wish that i was seventeen again, when they started out. With songs “Coming Home” and “Gimme Head” they are a good time rock and roll band that set the tone for the rest of the day.
Following The Radiators, powerhouse blues rock outfit 19-Twenty continued the full on energy. Last year John’s double bass missed the show, but he made up for it this year. The instrument gets thrown around and climbed over as if it is part of a dancing duet. Combined with Kane’s guitars and vocals and Jeremy’s intense drumming, the result is that of pure energy.
Fanny Lumsden is a shining light of fresh air, with her country inspired songs and beautiful soul. This was her second appearance this weekend, joining the Fleetwood Mac tribute the previous evening. Today was songs from her upcoming self-produced album Traditions, performed with her khaki clad band, The Daddies (AKA the Prawn Stars). It was a joy to watch her having so much fun on stage.
Another performer who clearly enjoys his craft is Tim Freedman of The Whitlams. After a touching rendition of “No Aphrodisiac”, the sun burst out. Freedman proclaimed that the sun always shine on The Whitlams.
Baby Animals is another band that have earned rock royalty status. Fronted by powerhouse vocalist and songwriter Suze DeMarchi, the energy was solid throughout the afternoon.
As the sun set across the Mundi Plains, John Butler slowed the tempo down a little with his trademark Blues and Roots music. Songs such as “Zebra” and “Betterman” sounded glorious live. Surprisingly, this was Butler’s first time at Mundi Mundi, but I’m thining it won’t be his last.
Closing off the festival, Jon Stevens took to the stage to deliver a pounding set that left everyone chanting for more. This truly is a festival for all, from young to old, with plenty of activities beyond the music stage. Morning yoga, face-painting and helicopter rides are all part of this incredible undertaking.
The 2027 Mundi Bash will be staged from 19-21st August, with performers to be announced in October. Check out https://mundimundibash.com.au/ for more info.
We have some more photos from Saturday from John Goodridge
Header photo credit credit: Matt Williams
