Riverbend Blues 2026

Riverbend Blues is back!

Riverbend Blues, the annual multi-band extravaganza of Blues music that originated in Launceston in 2022 as a response to the limited opportunities for Blues musicians to perform in the city, is back again on MARCH 14, 2026!

Organisers, David Dobson & Jackie Barnes, are expecting another bumper crowd at The Boathouse Centre on Northbank. At a time when larger festivals are facing difficulties, this style of smaller single-day events are filling the void and providing an exciting and ever changing program of talent to Blues hungry Tasmanians!

Riverbend Blues @ The Boathouse Centre has an amazing international headline act this year; The Gwyn Ashton Group, with 3 Tasmanian bands also on the lineup The Pete Cornelius Band, Richard Steele & Kitty Flesfader + band, and Billy Whitton & The Men of Steel. The dancefloor will be jumping from 1pm-6pm on Saturday 14th May.

This year we will continue our exciting collaboration with local College Music Programs to showcase student blues musicians at the start of the event to provide them with an opportunity to perform to an appreciative audience. “As musicians ourselves, we’re passionate about creating opportunities for bands to perform; it’s becoming increasingly difficult for Blues bands across Australia to find venues that can afford to hire them.

We’re also very keen to nurture younger Blues artists and provide a platform for them to hone their skills”. (Dobson & Barnes) Tickets for this years event are available via GigFindr, with details of the event on the Dobson Guitar Services Facebook page.

Fully licenced event (no BYO) with meal service throughout the day. Communal seating. Parking onsite, accessible venue.

RIVERBEND BLUES ACCEPTS VALID COMPANION CARDS.

Major sponsor is The Boathouse Centre and Dobson Guitar Services. Tickets on sale now!

14 March 1-6pm