Related Articles
words by Frankie Anderson-Byrne
Birregurra’s Royal Mail Hotel has found a winning formula for both its locals and visitors, bringing live music back to this small rural town.
Entertainment Booker John Waller, a local musician and school teacher, has been orchestrating Sunday afternoon gigs for almost a year, quickly becoming an integral part of the hotel’s vibrant offering.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
“We started doing it to boost Sunday afternoon attendance,” Waller explains. “Being a local, I began by featuring some cover artists and past students, and over time, we’ve gradually transitioned into showcasing original artists and bands. It’s been a huge success.”
The Sunday session, held from 3-5pm, caters to a wide range of audiences, from young families and parents to the older generation, making it an ideal time slot for those who struggle to make it to late-night shows. The timing has turned out to be a sweet spot that helps bring in a diverse crowd.
“It’s the perfect window for families and people of all ages to come together and enjoy live music,” Waller says. “We’ve now started attracting Melbourne-based acts, as word is spreading. The goal is to keep a mix of original and cover music, with a band playing once a month and smaller acts filling the other weeks.”
Birregurra, with a population of around 900, is a town where music is close to the heart. Though small, the community is vibrant, with a few hidden gems like the Royal Mail Hotel that have become hubs for creativity and connection. As Waller points out, the town is home to a “music-minded community,” but there was a noticeable gap when it came to live performances.
“We’re filling that gap,” he says. “There are plenty of talented artists in the area, and we want to offer them opportunities to perform. There’s a dormant music network here, and we want to tap into it.”
The hotel’s owners, Paul Watkin and Sarah Dickinson, have played a integral role in making this dream a reality. After purchasing the Royal Mail Hotel in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the couple undertook a full renovation which took a year to complete. The result is a beautifully fitted-out space with a fantastic beer garden, new acoustic panels for top-notch sound quality, and a revamped commercial kitchen.
“We wanted to make it a special place for both locals and visitors,” says Dickinson. “It’s become a hub of the town now, and we’ve been fortunate to have our fabulous chef for the last 3.5 years. Our food and wine list have gotten quite the reputation, and people travel from far and wide to experience it.”
The Royal Mail Hotel’s focus on live music has proven to be a winning combination with the town’s residents. Waller’s passion for local talent has made him a beloved figure in the community, and Watkin and Dickinson are quick to sing his praises.
“Johnny has become part of our family. He’s the expert in music, and we’re so grateful for the way he’s nurtured this space,” says Dickinson. “It’s not just about the music—it’s about offering something back to the town. We’re thrilled to see the town turning into a regular destination for live music.”
While the wonderful Birregurra Hall also hosts live performances for some big names, the Royal Mail Hotel’s initiative has created a space for smaller, up-and-coming acts to shine. The aim is to continue to foster a diverse range of musical acts and make the hotel a regular destination for live entertainment.
For artists looking to snag a spot at The Royal Mail Hotel Birregurra, email [email protected].
With Waller’s expertise, the support of passionate owners, and a community eager to embrace live music, the Royal Mail Hotel is helping to revitalize Birregurra’s music scene—one Sunday afternoon at a time.
