Battle of the Bands, 2026

1st Place - Freak: Formed in 2020 and runners-up in last year’s Battle of the Bands, Freak delivered a tight three‑piece rock set shaped by influences from Silverchair and Green Day through to Sleep Token, Parkway Drive and Bring Me the Horizon. The band is currently self‑recording an upcoming album. They won a studio recording package through Katcha Music Studio.

2nd Place - There Goes Me: There Goes Me brought dynamic indie/alternative rock with guitar‑driven songwriting and engaging live performance. Since forming in 2023, they’ve built momentum across Sydney, including support slots (notably for Surf Trash) and a feature on Triple J Unearthed. They received a $500 gift voucher from Mall Music.

3rd Place - The Commissioners: The Commissioners blended punk‑rock, grunge, indie and alternative influences, performing original songs including Lost and Sour Lemonade. After appearances at City of Ryde’s Granny Smith Festival, they have continued to develop their sound as an emerging young band. They received a $250 gift voucher from Mall Mus