Who are the Skinner Boyz? Brothers Nathan and Joel Skinner aka The Skinner Boyz are fast becoming musical sensations in their adopted hometown of Glen Innes, where their musical careers are taking off. Nathan, who is older, and Joel grew up on the coast, sharing a love of surfing and music. Taught the guitar largely by his father, Nathan’s early musical influences included finger picking from the 30s, old country blues and “just about every song from Mississippi John Hurt”. Joel was taught the guitar by his father and also Nathan. He used to love listening to Nathan playing his…
With the Australian Celtic Festival kicking off this weekend, locals and visitors alike are on the lookout for the perfect Celtic-inspired outfit. For those wanting to dress the part while supporting a good cause, two Glen Innes non-profits are offering a treasure trove of tartan at budget-friendly prices. Out the Back Treasures, located behind Oasis Church at 70 Grey Street (opposite TAFE), is opening its doors today, Friday 2 May 2025, from 9am to 3pm. The shop boasts “ACRES of Tartans....Kilts, Skirts, Trousers, Caps, Scarves, Wraps, Jackets,” making it a one-stop shop for festival-goers wanting to embrace Celtic style. Meanwhile,…
Glen Innes motorists and residents are advised to plan ahead as several temporary road closures will be in place across the town for the 2025 Australian Celtic Festival, taking place from Friday 2 May to Sunday 4 May. The Glen Innes Severn Council has announced the following road closures to ensure the smooth running of festival events: Friday 2 May:Grey Street, between Bourke Street and Town Square, will be closed from 9:30am to approximately 1:45pm to accommodate the Festival Opening Ceremony. Saturday 3 May:Grey Street, from Lang Street to Meade Street, will be closed between 8:00am and 11:30am for the…
Begin your Celtic Festival Friday with an hour of glorious music hosted by the Glen Innes Severn Public and TAFE Library at 71 Grey St. The short and FREE concert will begin at 10 am with a 30 minute performance by soprano and harpist Siobhan Owen, described as having a ‘unique vocal style - blending her ethereal soprano voice with heart wrenching Celtic lilts.' A Welsh-born Australian, with Irish heritage, Siobhan is the invited ‘Honoured Guest for Wales.’ The music continues at 11am with the Abakus Celtic Trio presenting its 30 minute set. The Trio includes Kim Kirkman, voice, harp…
Now a fixture on the Celtic Festival calendar, the Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale is on again at Glen Innes Scout Hall. Funds raised from the Book Sale have supported the Glen Innes Severn Public and TAFE Library for many years, providing extras which have enhanced this treasured local institution. The Friends have contributed to the Library in different practical ways. For example, they have donated large print books, a shade sail for the outdoor area, outdoor seating and audio books. In addition, the Friends have been able to support a range of educational activities for children, such…
Glen Innes is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors from across the country as it hosts the Australian Celtic Festival from 1–4 May 2025. Now in its 33rd year, the festival remains Glen Innes Severn Council’s largest annual event and is recognised nationally as a key celebration of Celtic heritage and community spirit. Held at the Australian Standing Stones National Monument in Centennial Parklands, the 2025 event will pay tribute to the Celtic nations of Brittany, Cornwall and Wales. The program includes live music, traditional ceremonies, artisan markets and community festivities spread across the township. Mayor Margot Davis said the…
Glen Innes is set to come alive from 1–4 May 2025 with the return of the Australian Celtic Festival (ACF), celebrating the cultures of Brittany, Cornwall, and Wales. As one of Australia’s largest Celtic festivals, the event is expected to draw thousands of visitors eager to experience traditional music, dance, and heritage. A Taste of Celtic Culture: The Australian Celtic Festival Celtic Food Trail Local restaurants, cafés, and pubs are invited to take part in the ACF Celtic Food Trail by creating special menu items inspired by the cuisines of Brittany, Cornwall, Ireland, the Isle of Man, Scotland, and Wales.…
The gallery had a wonderful exhibition with Australian Summer. Now, we have a spectacular exhibition that opened on March 10th, ‘Absolutely Abstract’ and the only thing I can say is, it is absolutely spectacular! We have new exhibitors in both painting and pottery. There are very large entries that are interesting. The colours in all the artworks are amazing! Some of our regular exhibitors have tested themselves and worked outside their comfort zone with fabulous results. Our gala, scheduled for 8th March, was postponed due to the weather. Check out our Facebook page for updates www.facebook.com/gleninnesartgallery This exhibit runs until…
The Australian Celtic Festival is set to give locals a unique opportunity to experience the magic of this Glen Innes signature event, at a special promotional price. Starting Monday, 3 March, local residents can secure their tickets directly from the Visitor Information Centre, ensuring priority access to a celebration of music, dance, crafts, and cultural traditions that resonate with our visitors and community. The weekend is set to be the place for the whole family to enjoy with all children 16 and under FREE with a paying adult and there are loads of exciting things for kids to explore including…
The Geographical Names Board (GNB) is inviting community feedback on a proposal by Glen Innes Severn Council to officially name a local landmark in Glen Innes as The Australian Standing Stones. Located within the Centennial Parklands and accessed from Watsons Drive, the landmark serves as a tribute to Celtic heritage in Australia. It acknowledges the contributions of Celtic people to the nation’s development, particularly in the Glen Innes region. The Australian Standing Stones were established to commemorate this history, providing a venue for cultural celebration and education. The site hosts the annual Australian Celtic Festival, which attracts visitors from across…
