Tuck Shop and Tunes!

It’s the 1980s and you’re in the back of your parents’ car. 

You’re bored, the seat is sticking to your legs and the music is blaring. Question, what tunes are playing? 

Kate Berry, founder of OK Motels, remembers and says her love for music and motels grew from those trips, the music playing and the surprises and wonder of what was waiting for them at the end of the road.

OK Motels is a concept that brings live music, art, and soon-to-be-friends to country town communities.

Founder Kate Berry said she hoped to bring a new way of experiencing music that’s more accessible and inclusive than most larger festivals. 

“We hope people leave with a sense of belonging, a newfound favourite band, and a town they plan to revisit,” Kate said.This weekend, OK Motels is coming to Kenilworth for OK Kenilworth, where you’ll find a full weekend of live music, activities and more on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 May. 

Kate said she was super excited to be heading out of Victoria to host the very first OK Kenilworth on the beautiful Kabi Kabi Country. 

“I absolutely fell in love with Kenilworth at first sight; it’s the perfect little town nestled in the hills,” Kate said.

“Regional towns are honest and have a beautiful community spirit. Events like OK bring the town together and allow visitors to get out of the buzz of their usual busy lives and get to know a new place they may not have visited before.”

This weekend, meet your mates at the Kenilworth Hotel on Friday night and have a boogie to unhinged melodies and romantic-dazed electronica by SCRAPS, followed by a slower paced dance to blue-collar folk and blues songwriter JB Paterson. 

“Our buddy Shan from Jet Black Cat Music will close our first night in town with her fave tunes,” shared Kate. 

“On Saturday afternoon head up the hill to the Kenilworth Bowls Club for a roll and meet a new friend with Tell Your Friends You Love Them Speed Friending. We have music there too, Skyscraper Stan, and local legends Uncle Bob's Jug Band.  

“Head back down the hill and make your way to the hall where we will meet for a delicious dinner together by Tuck Shop. There's 12-hour beef brisket, eggplant biryani, local veggies and green salads with housemade bread. 

“Once our bellies are full we'll be ready for a night together with old and new friends and Radium Dolls, Nice Biscuit, Marina Allen from the US, and local superstars Betty Taylor.  

“There's plenty of free camping right next to the hall in the beautiful Kenilworth showgrounds and lots of cute towns dotted around with accommodation to rest your weary head.”

Buy tickets, browse the program or register for free events at horizonfestival.com.au