The Wardell River Festival returns on Saturday 17 October for a full day of live music, food, art, river activities and community celebration beside the Richmond River.

This year’s theme, River Life, is a celebration of life by the river — the communities that have grown around it and the living river system that supports our region.

Lismore band Hussy Hicks will headline the festival, joining a full afternoon and evening of free live blues, rock and folk music, including inspiring local youth performances .

Wardell Neighbourhood Centre coordinator Joel Orchard said it was great to see the community festival reach another milestone, and that getting it to this point was an extraordinary effort by the volunteers and supporters behind the Wardell Neighbourhood Centre.

“We’re incredibly lucky to have such a committed group of volunteers and supporters who keep stepping up to make it happen.”

“This year we’re really pleased to be part of Richmond RiverFest 2026, which brings together events and communities from across the catchment to celebrate the rivers, cultures and communities of the Northern Rivers,” Mr Orchard said.

The partnership connects Wardell’s festival with events happening across the Richmond catchment and a broader conversation about river health, culture, restoration and community action.

Wardell River Festival invites the community to be a part of it.

Alongside the music, there will be plenty for people to take part in, including the 'River Life' art competition, cooking contest, fancy-dress competition and fishing comp - as well as workshops, youth activities, food stalls and community displays.

Activities on and around the river include a social paddle on the Richmond, kayak hire and a sunset river cruise. The event aims to bring community groups, river safety organisations, and river restoration advocates into the festival, giving people a chance to learn more about the Richmond and the work happening across the catchment to care for it.

Later in the day, community-made lanterns will form the River Life Lantern Parade, with designs inspired by the landscapes of the Richmond River. The Wardell River Festival is made possible through the support of Ballina Shire Council’s Festival and Event Funding Program, together with the generous support of local businesses, community groups, volunteers and festival partners.

Dan Cully, Kate Mahood and Bella Frank Duo come together for a special night of heartfelt, earthy folk and roots music at New Italy.

All three acts bring their own unique blend of storytelling, warmth and musicality to the stage.

Dan Cully weaves guitar, harmonica, didgeridoo and stomp box into a rich, rhythmic solo sound, drawing inspiration from the natural world, connection and the human experience.

Kate Mahood brings her soulful voice and evocative songwriting, with influences spanning folk, country and Americana.

Bella Frank Duo bring their own warm and engaging blend of acoustic folk to the evening, adding another layer of rich songwriting and musicianship to the night.

Together, the three acts offer an intimate and uplifting evening of songs, stories and connection. Expect honest songwriting, beautiful harmonies and plenty of foot-tapping moments.

Come along, settle in and enjoy a beautiful evening of live Australian music in the surrounds of New Italy.

Dinner Dinner will be available on the night, including:

Spaghetti Bolognese Curry, dhal and rice

Gluten-free and vegan options will be available. If you have any other dietary requirements, please let us know and we'll do our best to accommodate you.

Dinner: $20 per meal Concert: $30

If you're experiencing financial difficulties and would really like to attend, please reach out. We're happy to work something out.

Tickets $45 or $40 conc available at Perceptio Bookshop (ph 66891766)

Bella Frankie will launch their third album in a night of beautiful music to fill your soul. Support from Pam Hata, Maori Roots talent and Bella Frankie collaborator. TICKETS AVAILABLE SOON!