Lineup
PLAYING TIMES AND FUN TIMES
1:00PM –1:30PM | Criterion Hotel
Public Figures
1:40PM – 2:10PM | Shamrock Hotel
Chimers
2:20PM – 3:00PM | Rochester Hotel
Hedge Burners
3:10PM – 4:00PM | Criterion Hotel
Jess Ribeiro
4:10PM – 4:50PM | Shamrock Hotel
Loose Lips
5:00PM – 6:00PM | Rochester Hotel
Kacy & Clayton
10:30AM –12:30PM
Tell Your Friends You Love Them Speed Friending & Devo Tea
1:30PM –2:30PM
Disco Rodeo Line Dancing
11:30AM –1:30PM
Friendship Fortune
3:00PM – 5:00PM
Marry Your Friends
6:00PM – 6:20PM
DJ Millú
6:20PM – 6:40PM
Welcome to Country & Blessing
6:40PM – 7:10PM
Wrong Way Up
7:30PM – 8:10PM
Drifting Clouds
8:30PM – 9:10PM
Sylvie
9:30PM – 10:10PM
Marlon Williams
10:10PM – 10:45PM
Marlon, Kacy & Clayton
10:45PM – 12:30AM | Shamrock Hotel
DJ Millú
MARLON WILLIAMS
Marlon Williams (Kāi Tahu, Ngāi Tai), the genre-blending Aotearoa singer-songwriter, is set to make his solo Australian debut at OK Motels, performing Te Whare Tīwekweka, his first album in Te Reo Māori. Known for his rich vocals and eclectic sound spanning country, folk, rock, and synth-pop, Williams rose to fame with his 2015 debut and 2018's Make Way for Love, even appearing in A Star Is Born. His 2022 album My Boy brought a playful Māori disco vibe, and his latest work continues that evolution—fusing traditional Māori rhythms with global influences into something entirely his own.
Kacy & Clayton
Kacy & Clayton are second cousins from Wood Mountain, Saskatchewan, where they grew up playing music at family get-togethers and soaking up old folk records. Their sound mixes British folk, old-time country, and a touch of psychedelia—like Fairport Convention taking a detour through prairie backroads. Kacy’s voice and Clayton’s guitar work are the backbone of it all. They’ve released a run of albums, including two with Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy, and toured with Wilco, The Decemberists and Marlon Williams. Whether it’s candlelit folk clubs or dusty hall stages, their music feels timeless without trying to be, just solid tunes, done well.
Sylvie
Back in ’75, John Schwab and his band Mad Anthony laid down tracks in a California barn, on the cusp of something, but the deal never came. The tapes got boxed up and forgotten. Decades later, in small-town Ohio, his son Ben found them. That sound stuck with him, warm, unforced, full of soul. After a wild run as a pro inline skater, art school, Golden Daze and Drugdealer, Ben circled back. Sylvie is the result. Recorded in an LA garage with mates, his dad even sings on a track. It’s all come full circle. Simple, heartfelt music, made the same way it started.
Wrong Way Up
Wrong Way Up are Naarm's Afro-synth duo bringing vintage disco and psychedelic boogie into the now. Emma D’s powerful vocals meet ADP’s synth and drum machine wizardry for a sound that’s both fresh and familiar, nodding to legends like Frances Bebey and William Onyeabor. Signed to UK’s Soundway Records, their debut Totally Right dropped in early 2025. Having played major festivals like Glastonbury and WOMAD, their live shows pack serious energy and groove. With a tight team behind the scenes, Wrong Way Up are carving out a space where old-school vibes meet modern dancefloor heat.
Drifting Clouds
Bawuypawuy is the debut track from Drifting Clouds, the solo project of Yolngu artist Terry Guyula. It's a modern take on an ancient Songline, passed down through generations, telling stories of sea and current in Arnhem Bay—all in Terry’s first language, Liyawulma’mirr-Djambarrpuyngu. The track blends steady grooves, soaring sax and soft, layered vocals. Written in his homeland of Bunhungura, just outside Gapuwiyak, Terry’s sound pulls from synthpop, rock, country and culture. Drifting Clouds has since grown into a full family band, hitting NT festivals in a troopy and building something honest, grounded and full of heart.
Chimers
Padraic landed in Wollongong after a two-week trip to Dublin turned into two years, and then a total life pivot in 2001. Fast forward to lockdown 2020, stuck at home and going a bit stir-crazy, Chimers was born in their backyard. Padraic ditched the drum kit, grabbed a guitar, and stepped up to the mic. What came out? Raw, brash, beautiful noise. Think post-punk, noise pop, garage grit—somewhere between Wipers and Mission of Burma, with a nod to Discord Records. Fans include Henry Rollins and Guy from Fugazi, so yeah, it’s loud. It’s real. And it rips.
Jess Ribeiro
Jess Ribeiro, based in Naarm, writes songs that sit with you long after they’re done. Her voice is calm but cuts deep, and the lyrics, straightforward at first, unfold into something bigger. She’s got a sharp eye for the quiet stuff most people miss. Since the early 2010s, Jess has been part of a wave of Australian and New Zealand artists mixing folk, country and rock with a kind of gothic, Antipodean slant. It’s music that feels familiar but a little off-centre—in the best way. No fuss, no flash—just well-crafted songs that know exactly where they’re going, even if you don’t.
Hedge Burners
Hedge Burners came together in winter 2024, under a house in Rye. Two pairs of friends, some new, some with years of playing behind them, ended up in the same spot at the right time. Jackson, Mawson, Shauny and Steph started jamming, found a shared rhythm, and let the sound take shape. It’s a bit rock, a bit country, a bit punk—familiar but not too polished. They like building things from the ground up, following instincts over plans, and letting the songs find their own way. It’s not overthought, and that’s kind of the point.
The Secret Beach
The Secret Beach is the indie folk project of Manitoba’s Micah Erenberg, built around a revolving crew of collaborators and anchored by Erenberg’s understated songwriting. Rooted in prairie calm and analog charm, their sound weaves folk, country, and pop into something warm, loose, and deeply human, think late-night tape hiss and melodies that feel like they’ve always been there. Their 2025 album We Were Born Here, What’s Your Excuse?, produced by Rob Fraboni, picked up a Juno nod for Adult Alternative Album of the Year. It’s music made with care, in a studio on an actual secret beach. Literally.
Loose Lips
Loose Lips are a raw and rowdy garage punk trio out of Naarm, stitched together from members of The Prize, The Unknowns, and Chubby and the Gang. 60s girl group swagger crashes headfirst into pub rock grit and boogie-fuelled chaos. Their sound’s all heart, fast, loose, and made to be played loud. Inspired by Ronettes-era pop and New York Dolls-style sleaze, it’s hooks first, polish never. Their debut four-track cassette is out now: short, sharp, and ready to melt your speakers. Named after a wartime warning, Loose Lips say what they mean—and mean it, loud.
Public Figures
Public Figures is the passion project of Evie Vlah and Gigi Argiro—built on big hooks, power-pop grit and a knack for capturing the mess and magic of everyday life. Joined by Lakota Vella and Mary Lou Hylands, this four-piece brings serious energy to the stage. Their songs are sharp, catchy and loud in all the right ways—made to be played with the volume up and the windows down. It’s not polished or perfect, and that’s kind of the point. Public Figures aren’t trying to be anything they’re not—they’re just here, loud and clear, now and 4eva.
Millú
A devoted selector, curator and advocate for underground and underrepresented music, Millu has been a mainstay of the local dance community for the past decade. Festival repeat offender, international circuit breaker and club scene rotator, her ear is tightly tuned to astral fringes of the electronic underground. Her sound is honed week after week on her slot on Melbourne’s RRR, delving into celestial ambient, brain-dance IDM, and deep, progressive grooves. On the dance floor this translates to deeply considered, immersive journeys, whilst never underestimating the importance of a good groove and a big bassline.KACY & CLAYTON & MARLON WILLIAMS PERFORMING PLASTIC BOUQUET!
While Saskatoon braces for snow and ice each December, Christchurch is slipping into summer. Plastic Bouquet was born from that contrast, a meeting of worlds that brought Canadian cousins Kacy & Clayton together with Aotearoa’s Marlon Williams, bound by a shared love of country, folk, and the kind of timeless storytelling that travels well across borders.
They met through a DM. Marlon heard one of their songs on tour and figured it was some long-lost folk gem. Turned out it was two younger-than-him prairie kids making music that felt timeless. A few months later, he was on a ranch in Saskatchewan, chopping wood, writing songs, and recording what became Plastic Bouquet.
The album sounds like it’s always existed. Lyrically sharp, sonically gentle. Equal parts heartbreak and humour. It’s not trying to be nostalgic, it just is, naturally.
And somehow we’ve managed to get all three of them together to perform it live for you in Rochester.
A MAGIC WEEKEND IN ROCHY
Of course, OK Motels is more than just music.
Reunite with a few old favourites, and new ones you’ll like just as much. The Rochy Shire Hall is having a one-day-only rebrand to the Rochy Hall of Friendship, where you can celebrate your old mates and make new ones. When you’re well acquainted, seal the deal and Marry Your Friends. Have a bite and a chat at the Tell Your Friends You Love Them Speed Friending and Devo Tea, where the locals are serving up scones with all the extras. If you want to take a glimpse over the friendship horizon, we’ve got Friend Fortune Telling, and if now, rather than the future, is more your thing, get out your dance card, grab a mate and learn to line dance with Disco Rodeo.
A bit is happening around town, too. Sip Shop will take you for a wander through Rochy’s local gems to drink the best on offer from local wineries, breweries and distilleries. Flip through the glossy mags at the newsagent’s with a G&T in hand. Take in the nostalgic scent of footy leather at Sportspower with a beer to boot. If you want to wander a little further, jump on Wayne’s Mural Walk to unlock a few well-kept secrets and learn about the murals speckled throughout town. Once all the adventuring is done, we’ll make our way to the magical outdoor OK Headliner Diner to share some tales, a meal, raise a glass, and witness a special musical memory all together.
From Lions Club snags to pub counteries, and the famous steak sanga from the Rochester Fish Shop, we’d suggest coming hungry.
Once it’s all over, rest your head in a fancy tent, a motel, or maybe you took the sleeper train from Southern Cross (yes, the train is back).
Don’t miss this one. Rochy’s ready for you.
ROCHY HALL OF FRIENDSHIP
MARRY YOUR FRIENDS
Celebrate the joyful depths of friendship with a participatory commitment ceremony, dubbed Marry Your Friends. This event, created by Marieke Hardy and celebrant Emilie Zoey Baker, is like a marriage without the legalities. After registering, you'll have a moment to gather your vows and share your unwavering love before a celebrant and emotional onlookers. You’ll receive a commemorative photo and some semi-official paperwork. Walk the aisle with your chosen family, share a first dance, and raise a glass. It’s a heartwarming celebration of your platonic bond!
TELL YOUR FRIENDS YOU LOVE THEM SPEED FRIENDING
What’s better than new friendships over hot scones and a cup of tea? Nothing, except that all the funds raised are heading straight back to Rochester. Pop in. You never know who you might meet, whether it’s a friend for the weekend, a lifetime, or the one. Take it as it comes.
DISCO RODEO BOOT SCOOTING
Try your hands, feet and heart at good old country line dancing. There’s no such thing as two left feet. Kick the heel and stomp your way towards friendship. Whether you're a beginner or an old hand who k-steps in their sleep, you’ll have a blast—from the first grapevine to the last hitch!
FRIENDSHIP FORTUNE
Radical Self will be in Rochy doing friendship tarot readings! Find out what amazing things the universe has in store for you and your bestie.
FRIENDSHIP FLASH
Our mates from Vic Market Tattoo are back at OK, and this time; they're creating special friendship flash for you to declare your platonic love … permanently.
BAR OF FRIENDSHIP
Shout your bestie a drink from the OK Bar of Friendship. All your favourite OK bar friends will be back to make you something special for that someone special.
RIVERSIDE GLAMPING, BYO TENT, OK MOTEL STAYS, AND THE SLEEPER TRAIN RETURNS TOOT TOOT
WHERE TO STAY
After the day is done, we’ve got plenty of options for you to rest your head. From glamping to camping under the stars. A 20-minute bus ride from Rochester and Echuca will take you to a motel, or, of course, you can take the sleeper train back home.
OK SLEEPER TRAIN
The OK Sleeper is back! Leaving Southern Cross Station on Friday night and taking you to Rochy via a whole other dimension. Sam Boon and his jazzy mates are back in the Deco lounge, and the Disco Carriage will also make a return; stay tuned. Our buddies from 707 will be taking great care of us, as always, and are so excited to be heading to Rochy with us again. Toot toot! BOOK A SLEEPER CABIN
OK RIVER CAMP
Our friends from Swell Shelter are joining us in Rochy too! Some of you might have stayed in their tents in Charlton; they're super comfy, and it takes the hassle out of setting up and packing down. The campsite is right by the Campaspe River and just a short stroll from all the fun! BOOK OK RIVER CAMPING
ROCHESTER RIVERSIDE HOLIDAY PARK
A super pretty place to set up camp right on the banks of the Campaspe and a short walk to all the fun. The park has powered, unpowered, and ensuite sites, a laundry, a camp kitchen, BBQs, and a playground. Plus, down at the river, there's a fishing platform & kayak launching ramp. BOOK A CAMP SITE
ROCHESTER CARAVAN PARK
Rochester Caravan Park is another great local option. Mick has plenty of cabins available. Get in quick, they'll sure to be snapped up. There's also room for caravans and camping too. BOOK A CABIN OR CAMP SITE
STAY IN AN OK MOTEL
Echuca isn't short of OK Motel offerings. If you like a roof over your head and some exposed brickwork, then this is the best bet. We're still working on the Echuca region for our directory. In the meantime, we've searched for you. Please make sure you call the motel directly to book. ECHUCA MOTELS
OK ECHUCA SHUTTLE
If you're staying in Echuca, leave the car at the motel and book yourself a spot on the shuttle bus. We'll get you there back safe and sound. BOOK A SPOT ON THE BUSCOUNTERIES & GOOD TIMES
WHERE TO EAT
Rochy has no shortage of pubs. Pick your flavour and give them a call to book in your lunch or dinner.
CRITERION HOTEL
The Criterion Hotel delivers country pub charm with an epic dog-friendly beer garden, pool table, and excellent gluten-free dining with a very welcoming vibe. BOOK A TABLE
ROCHESTER HOTEL
Rochester's first and last stop features a pretty beer garden hosting Hedge Burners and Kacy & Clayton, plus top counter meals. BOOK A TABLE
SHAMROCK HOTEL
Beautiful pub right in the heart of Rochy hosting Chimers and Loose Lips in the front bar. Classic country hospitality and meals. SHAMROCK HOTELMORE INFORMATION
Departing Echuca Train Station
Sturt Street, Echuca
9:30 AM
10:30 AM
11:30 AM
12:30 PM
Moore Street, Rochester
11:00 PM
12:00 AM
1:00 AM
Departing Echuca Train Station
Sturt Street, Echuca
8:55 AM – Coach
3:02 PM – Coach
4:05 PM – Train
5:50 PM – Coach
Departing Rochester Train Station
Moore Street, Rochester
11:51 AM – Train
3:00 PM – Coach
3:15 PM – Coach
7:30 PM – Coach
8:48 PM – Train