Pearces Creekbush dancetradition steps backinto the spotlight

PEARCES Creek Hall will echo with the sound of fiddles and folk music when the community comes together for a bush dance celebrating more than a century of local tradition.

The Pearces Creek Bush Dance will be held on Saturday 8 August, continuing a long history of dances at the hall.

The event was revived in 2023 after the hall committee secured funding through the NSW Reconnecting Regional Communities grant program.

It has been supported by Ballina Shire Council, allowing the community to host its modern bush dances.

The committee has continued to subsidise the event since then, with dances held in 2024 and again this year to highlight role the gatherings play in bringing locals together.

“It’s a great way of engaging and connecting with the community,” an event spokesperson said.

“The event continues the hall’s proud history as a place for social gatherings, with historical records showing dances were being held at Pearces Creek Hall more than a century ago.

“Reports from a farewell celebration in January 1900 noted that dancing continued until daylight.”

The hall has also become a hub for local and international folk performers in recent years.

Folk singer-songwriter and musician Sylvie Millard has played a key role in bringing the next bush dance together, helping organisers secure an experienced caller to guide dancers through the evening.

The dance will feature the sounds of Northern Rivers bluegrass and folk group Hootenanny Highway.

The group brings a 10-piece ensemble known for their energetic acoustic performances and community-focused shows.

Tickets are limited and can be purchased at events.humanitix.com/pearces-creek-bush-dance-2026