• Meet the Judges: Battle of the Bands 2026

    Meet the Judges: Battle of the Bands 2026

    The Goodna Jacaranda Festival Battle of the Bands is where emerging musicians get their moment to shine. Taking to the festival’s main stage in front of thousands of music lovers, competing bands will have the opportunity to showcase their talent, grow their audience and impress judges whose experience spans decades of professional performance and music industry success. This isn’t just another local competition, it’s a chance to perform under the spotlight, receive valuable feedback from seasoned professionals, and make a lasting impression. We’re proud to welcome two outstanding judges to this year’s event: Tony Worsley, an Australian rock and roll icon, and Anthony Marulanda-Carter, an accomplished vocalist and entertainer. Together, they bring an exceptional level of experience, insight and credibility to what promises to be one of the most exciting Battle of the Bands competitions yet.


    Tony Worsley

    Tony Worsley is a respected figure in Australian music whose career spans decades of live performance, recording and music industry involvement. As the lead singer of the renowned 1960s group Tony Worsley & The Fabulous Blue Jays, he earned a reputation for his powerful vocals, dynamic stage presence and outstanding showmanship. Having spent a lifetime around live music and emerging talent, Tony brings a wealth of experience and a deep appreciation for performance excellence to the Goodna Jacaranda Festival Battle of the Bands judging panel.


    Anthony Marulanda-Carter

    Anthony Marulanda-Carter is a professional vocalist, live performer and creative artist with extensive experience entertaining audiences across theatres, corporate events, cruise ships and live music venues. Known for his powerful vocals, stage presence and passion for performance, Anthony has built a reputation for delivering engaging, high-energy shows that celebrate the very best of popular music. With a background in performing arts and a keen eye for talent, he brings valuable industry insight and a performer’s perspective to the Goodna Jacaranda Festival Battle of the Bands judging panel.


    Why This Matters

    The Goodna Jacaranda Festival Battle of the Bands isn’t just about winning. It’s about stepping onto a professional festival stage, performing in front of a passionate live audience, and putting your music in front of people who genuinely understand what it takes to succeed in the industry.

    This year’s competition offers emerging artists a rare opportunity to showcase their talent before a judging panel featuring Australian music legend Tony Worsley and accomplished vocalist and performer Anthony Marulanda-Carter. Their combined experience spans decades of live performance, recording, entertainment and artist development, giving competitors the chance to gain valuable recognition and feedback from respected industry professionals.

    For music fans, it’s an opportunity to witness the next generation of talent before they hit the big time. For the bands, it’s a chance to make a statement, build their profile, win great prizes and earn the title of Goodna Jacaranda Festival Battle of the Bands Champion.

    Whether you’re taking the stage or cheering from the crowd, expect an afternoon of powerful performances, incredible musicianship and unforgettable festival energy. This is local live music at its loudest, proudest and best. 🎸🎤🔥

    Join us at the Jacaranda Festival and witness the next wave of local talent take the stage!