The Blues Train is taking a detour this winter, bringing live blues music off the heritage railway and into the heart of Queenscliff for a brand-new concert series.
Making its debut on Saturday, 8th August, the Off-Track Blues Sessions will transform Queenscliff Town Hall into a one-day live music venue, with three acclaimed Australian blues acts taking to the stage while The Blues Train pauses for its winter break.
19-Twenty will headline the inaugural event
Leading the lineup is Australian blues and roots powerhouse 19-Twenty, a band renowned for its energetic live performances. Regulars on the national festival circuit, they’ve played everywhere from Byron Bay Bluesfest and Woodford Folk Festival to Port Fairy Folk Festival and Blues on Broadbeach, earning a reputation for turning every show into an unforgettable party.
Joining them are Melbourne outfit Phil Coyne & The Wayward Aces, whose harmonica-led take on Australian blues has attracted international attention through releases including Sound & Fury and Live at MBAS. Frontman Phil Coyne is backed by Morgan Klose on guitar, Dale “Gloveboy” Lindrea on bass and Will Harris on drums.
Opening the afternoon is award-winning singer-songwriter Anna Scionti. Known for her mastery of slide guitar across resonator, lap steel, cigar box guitar and six-string, Scionti was named the Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society’s 2023 Blues Performer of the Year (Solo/Duo) before representing the organisation at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis. She also released her third studio album, Sparrow and the Fox, in 2024.
Bringing the music off the rails
“We’re thrilled to bring the blues off the tracks and into the Queenscliff Town Hall while The Blues Train has its winter break,” said event promoter Daniel Kay. “19-Twenty are one of the most electrifying live acts touring Australia right now and this will be a great chance to see them in an intimate venue.”
The new event is the latest offering from The Blues Train team, who have previously expanded beyond their signature rail experience with themed live music events celebrating genres including rockabilly and country.
While the Off-Track Blues Sessions brings the music into Queenscliff Town Hall for winter, The Blues Train itself remains one of Victoria’s most unique live music experiences. Running seasonally from October to June, the heritage train takes guests on a journey through the Bellarine Peninsula, where four different blues and roots acts perform across four carriages.
After each stop, passengers swap carriages to catch the next artist, with drinks included throughout the trip. Between performances, the train pauses at stations, giving guests time to stretch their legs before climbing back aboard for another set.
The evening ends back at Queenscliff Station after four live performances, scenic railway views and an atmosphere that’s as much about the shared experience as it is the music.
Key details
- What: The Blues Train Presents – Off-Track Blues Sessions
- Where: Queenscliff Town Hall, Queenscliff
When: Saturday, 8 August 2026 - Doors: 3.15pm, music starts at 4pm
Tickets: $99 per person (general admission, seated)
Bar and merchandise will be available on site. No BYO. Guests under 18 must attend with a responsible adult.
