A new live music initiative will launch in Kyneton this Australia Day Eve, bringing together live entertainment, community connection and regional support following recent fire activity across the region.
ShamRocks Summer Sessions will debut at the Shamrock Hotel Kyneton on Saturday, January 25, marking the first event in what is planned to become an ongoing series of live music performances at the venue.
Doors will open from 2.30pm, with local Kyneton musician Mat Dynon opening the afternoon and setting the tone for the inaugural event.
The ShamRocks Summer Sessions concept is being prototyped by Kyneton resident and professional touring artist, Reece Mastin, with support from the Australian Government as part of the 2026 Revive Live Music initiative.
Since winning The X Factor in 2011, Mastin has toured extensively throughout Australia and internationally.
Through his travels, he identified a gap in central Victoria’s live music circuit — particularly between Melbourne, Bendigo, Ballarat and Geelong — for an accessible, welcoming venue capable of hosting high-quality touring artists while remaining connected to the local community.
In recognition of the recent fires affecting the region, a contribution from every ticket sold will be donated to the Country Fire Authority and to support those impacted, with additional fundraising opportunities available on the day.
The January 25 launch event will feature a specially assembled five-piece house band made up of some of Australia’s leading musicians, backing an all-star lineup including Dale Ryder (Boom Crash Opera), Tottie Goldsmith (Chantoozies), and Reece Mastin himself.
Each artist will perform their best-known hits and crowd favourites before joining together on stage for shared sing-along moments celebrating some of Australia’s most loved songs.
With a relaxed afternoon start, a public holiday the following day, and a strong focus on both live music and community support, ShamRocks Summer Sessions aims to establish a new regional live music option — and a show not to be missed.
