A person busking outside Dandenong Library.

Busk Stop – Summer Success Supporting Local Artists

A person busking outside Dandenong Library.

Summer is starting to feel like a distant memory now, but we certainly made the most of the beautiful weather and entertainment that was on offer in our municipality. 

Over summer. the Busk Stop program featured a curated selection of street performances. These events were held weekly on Fridays and Saturdays in Palm Plaza and Harmony Square.

The initiative saw local performers from a cross section of mediums including musicians, singing, and dancers, perform at designated “Busk Stops”.  

Through this pilot insights were obtained to identify which ‘stops’ work best and how busking contributes to street life.

  • Busk Stop supports street performance opportunities to create welcoming enjoyable places.
  • Council wants to encourage and support busking with the aim of creating a busking culture in its activity centres.
  • Busking creates opportunities for local performers to share their creative talents.

One participant stated, “We have played open mics, gigs and festivals and we have run workshops and sing-alongs with large groups but we have never done street-level busking before. In fact, we weren't really sure we were a 'busking' act. After our Busk Stop experience, we are very keen to participate in that program again (if the opportunity presents itself).”

Performing artists were invited through social media and a partnership was formed with Councils Youth Service Team targeting young people through the FReeZA Committee.

If you’re interested in busking and want to find out more about great busking locations, email placemaking@cgd.vic.gov.au

Alternatively, if you are ready to busk apply through Council's website.

Apply for a busking permit