National Busking Championships Light Up Cooma in the Snowy Mountains

The streets of Cooma in the Snowy Mountains were alive with melody as 26 talented busking acts from across Australia gathered to compete in the Australian National Busking Championships. Musicians of various styles and ages opened their guitar cases, eager to showcase their skills and compete for the title of best busker.

Annual Musical Showcase

The National Busking Championship, now in its twelfth year, has become a celebrated event for fostering new talents and celebrating the diversity of performing arts. The charming town of Cooma played host to this grand finale, where musicians braved the elements, from sunshine to rain, to entertain and compete.

Embracing Musical Opportunity

Founder of the event, Allan Spencer, champions the championships as a catalyst for inspiring young musicians and a nod to the humble beginnings of many now-famous performers. 'Street music is the lifeblood of the urban experience,' Spencer remarked. The competition serves to ignite dreams, encouraging artists to strive beyond simple year-end presentations.

Crowning Australia's Best Busker

To reach the national finals, performers had won regional competitions in various locations including Stanthorpe, Noosa, and Canberra. Participants competed in several categories, but the spotlight shone on 21-year-old Ruby Jane from Geelong, who clinched the top prize in the Adult Open section. This country singer-songwriter's journey started at 17, with busking becoming part of her music career at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Jane expressed her appreciation for the unpredictable and thrilling nature of busking. 'You never know who can be walking by,' she said.

The Challenge of Street Performance

Renowned media personality Ian 'Dicko' Dickson, who served as a guest judge, commented on the raw and honest feedback loop inherent in busking, as passersby vote with their attention and wallets. 'You need to get a thick skin if you're going to be a busker,' Dickson advised. Nevertheless, the event underscored the inclusive and accessible side of busking, allowing public appreciation without the barrier of expensive tickets.

music, competition, community