On Sunday 26 April 2026, the Burton Street Stage and Mall in Vincentia will come alive with music, creativity, and community as Burton St. Beats takes over the space for an afternoon of live performances by young local artists.
What makes Burton St. Beats special isn’t just the music, it’s the way the festival has come together. Designed by young people and backed by community, council, and government partners, the event is a strong example of what’s possible when youth ideas are supported and given room to grow.
A Festival Designed by Young People
Burton St. Beats was created through Firefly’s Youth Voice Project, where young people spoke openly about the need for more safe, inclusive performance opportunities for emerging musicians in the Bay and Basin.
From that starting point, the festival has been shaped alongside local young people, reflecting their ideas, creativity, and vision for a welcoming, community‑focused music event. The result is a free, all‑ages festival that creates real performance pathways for young artists while bringing the wider community together.
Led by Community: Vincentia Community Connections
A key part of making Burton St. Beats possible has been the ongoing support of Vincentia Community Connections, who are proud to be the festival’s lead community partner.
Vincentia Community Connections has been involved from the very beginning, supporting Firefly and the young people behind the event every step of the way. On the day, their team will be helping coordinate volunteers, supporting event delivery, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone attending.
They will also be running the FREE community BBQ during the festival, making sure performers, volunteers, and community members can share food together and enjoy the strong sense of connection the event is built on.
Backed by Community, Council, and Government
Turning a youth‑led idea into a live event takes support, and Burton St. Beats has been made possible thanks to a strong network of partners.
The festival has received event sponsorship from local State Member Liza Butler MP, who has been a keen supporter of Firefly’s Youth Voice Project and the leadership of young people in the Bay and Basin. Her sponsorship of Burton St. Beats is a fantastic example of backing youth‑led ideas and recognising the value of creating opportunities that build confidence, skills, and connection for young people in our community.
Supporting Performers On and Off Stage
Looking after the performers and volunteers is an important part of the festival, and this year the Green Room (Vincentia Community Connections Hub), a dedicated backstage space focused on performer wellbeing, is proudly sponsored by Community Bank Sanctuary Point & Districts.
James Marin, Bank Manager at Community Bank Sanctuary Point & Districts, said the bank was proud to support both young people and local creativity.
“We’re passionate about backing initiatives that give young people opportunities to grow, connect, and showcase their talents. Providing the Green Room is one way we can help ensure performers feel supported on the day.”
The festival is also supported by Shoalhaven City Council, recognising the value of accessible cultural events that activate public spaces and celebrate local youth talent.
Community Supporters Making the Day Possible
In addition to major partners, a number of local organisations are contributing practical support on the day to help create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming festival environment.
APM will be hosting a Quiet Space in their office, offering a calm, sensory‑friendly area where attendees can take a break, chill out, and enjoy free popcorn if the festival atmosphere feels overwhelming.
Oracle will be onsite with their own marquee, running free activities for festival‑goers throughout the afternoon.
Headspace Nowra will be attending the festival with information and support resources for young people, as well as running a raffle to raise funds for youth homelessness. Community members are also encouraged to bring donations on the day, including non‑perishable food, hygiene products, and school supplies. These donations will go directly toward supporting young people in need within our community.
To ensure everyone’s safety, Colleen Allan from South Coast First Aid is generously volunteering her time and professional skills, providing first aid support throughout the event.
Turning Youth Ideas Into Reality
For Firefly, Burton St. Beats reflects the power of listening to young people and backing their ideas with strong community partnerships.
Natasha Busbridge, Firefly Community Impact Strategy Coordinator, said the festival shows what can happen when young people are trusted to lead.
“This festival exists because young people identified a gap and were trusted to lead. The support from Vincentia Community Connections, our local supporters, Liza Butler MP, Community Bank Sanctuary Point & Districts, and Shoalhaven City Council has made it possible to turn their ideas into a high‑quality, community‑focused event.”
See It Live
Burton St. Beats will feature a diverse lineup of young performers from across the Bay and Basin, spanning multiple genres and styles, and will form part of NSW Youth Week 2026 celebrations.
Whether you’re there to support local young artists, discover new music, donate to a good cause, or just enjoy an afternoon in the heart of Vincentia, everyone is welcome.
