Mansfield Battle of the Bands 2026

Thirty-three young performers took to the stage at the Performing Arts Centre on Saturday 10 October, showcasing their musical talents across 15 acts. 

Though the audience were the winners on the night, winners were announced across three categories.

• Judges Award - Headphones Can Kill
• Solo/Duo Category - Eamon Nealon
• Bank Category - Glitch

The winners will go on to perform at the Bendigo Bank Rock Out Stage at this year’s High-Country Festival. 

The Solo/Duo and Band Category winners will also progress to the North East Battle of the Bands Grand Final in Benalla on October 14, where they will compete against other talented musicians.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie, who opened the event, said "It was a privilege to open this year's Battle of the Bands and see so many talented young people take to the stage. It was fantastic to see just how much musical talent we have in our shire and to see our local youth supported by family, friends and the wider community."

Steph O'Halloran, Mansfield Shire Council's Team Leader Youth Services said that Mansfield is lucky to have such an incredible calibre of young musicians in the community.

"The fourth annual Battle of the Bands celebrated the creativity and talent of young musicians in the local community," she said.

"The event was made possible by everyone who contributed their time and skills. Council thanks MMUDS for lighting, Mansfield Lighting and Sound, Paul Riley and Dave Cowan for stage managing, Clive Dickerson for photography and Jack Morrish for MCing. We'd also like to thank the Amplify Committee and judges Daisy Sampson, David Sobey and Tim Walama for their contributions."

This event was organised by Mansfield Shire Youth and the Amplify Committee, through the Amplify Grant.