Melville warms up midwinter with stellar music lineup

The City of Melville is warming up the longest night of the year with Melville Midwinter, an annual performance and arts event honouring the Noongar season of Makuru and the unruly beauty of Perth winters.

Set against the shores of Dyoondalup Point Walter, this year’s free, family-friendly, and accessible Midwinter event will be held on Saturday, June 20, with music, dance, community poetry, shadow puppetry and more, all unfolding under the dark winter evening.

Curated as an intimate and immersive experience, the night will feature crackling fires, lantern‑lit paths, and nourishing food, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for the community.

Western Australian songwriter and musician Peter Bibby leads the 2026 program as Musical Director, curating the soundtrack for the evening.

This year’s lineup of musicians includes Carla Geneve, Nelson Mondlane, and Emily Barker, with Bibby taking to the stage himself, performing alongside some of the night’s musicians to close the event.

Bibby said the event is a powerful way to connect with the community and for the artists to approach their work with fresh intention.

“We have handpicked an incredible mix of local artists whose work will resonate with both curious newcomers and the most discerning punters. For anyone familiar with my own music, they can expect to hear a selection of songs reimagined in a completely new way. And beyond the performances, there’s something truly special about stepping out of winter hibernation and into Dyoondalup Point Walter, with beautiful lighting, sound and atmosphere creating an immersive experience for all ages.”

More than just a music event, guests are encouraged to bring a picnic and a mug to enjoy hearty soup and hot drinks while taking in a range of roving performances.

Among them is a dance station choreographed by award-winning contemporary dancer Brooke Leeder, alongside evocative shadow puppetry from Noongar cultural educators and artists Rickeeta and Alton Walley, who weave stories through light, movement and imagination.

The evening will also feature a specially commissioned work by Ballardong Noongar writer and educator Casey Mulder, whose words will reflect the themes of place, season and community gathering.

Melville Midwinter will take place from 5.00pm to 8.00pm at Dyoondalup Point Walter Reserve on Saturday, June 20, 2026. For more information, visit melvillecity.com.au