Aust Banjo Conference 2012

Featuring – Ross Nickerson and X-Train

Announcing the dates for 2 great Bluegrass Music Conferences.
This event is for Bluegrass Musicians of all levels.

After the ever-growing popularity of the Australian Banjo Conference, organisers are thrilled to announce an expanded series of two (that’s correct two) premier bluegrass instrument teaching conferences scheduled for December 2012.

Each conference is 3 full days in length, with 6 instructors, and the return of the fabulous band X Train from the USA! Each conference will have 55 spaces available. Make sure you book early for this unforgettable bluegrass experience.


This remains the only opportunity in Australia for bluegrass enthusiasts to rapidly improve their playing, to be truly inspired and most importantly to meet other players.


Conference No. 1 The Australian Banjo Conference
Thu 6th to Sunday 9th December, 2012 Intensive instruction in 5 String Banjo  Venue: Tranquil Park Resort – Located near Maleny in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland just north of Brisbane.
Conference No. 2 The Australian Bluegrass Conference Featuring – X Train Bluegrass band
December 13th – 16th 2012 Intensive instruction in mandolin, guitar, fiddle, bass and 5 String Banjo. Venue: Tranquil Park Resort
Located near Maleny in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland just north of Brisbane.

Conference Details:
Cost: $750.00 per person. ($590 for a non-playing partner – space limited)
Cost $750 per person. ($590 for non-playing partner – spaces are limited)

The Cost includes:

  • 3 nights accommodation at the fully licensed Tranquil Park Resort.
  • 9 superb main meals (Thursday dinner to Sunday lunch)
  • Morning and Afternoon Teas.
  • Instruction and Workshop Sessions and all In-house concerts

Room Arrangements:
Check-in will be after 12:00pm on the Thursday, and wrap up Sunday afternoon at 2:00pm.
All rooms have ensuites and are either 2, 3 or 4 share.


Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1. How do I register and pay?
The best way is to register online on the Bellbird Banjo website conference page at www.bellbirdbanjos.com.
Simply hit the “Register Today” tab, then complete the registration details and hit “Submit”

To pay you can contact Peter Nahuysen at peternahuysen@optusnet.com.au to arrange a direct deposit, or send a cheque payable to Peter Nahuysen along with your registration form to PO Box 505 Aspley Qld 4034. It is essential however that there is a registration form sent so that your details are recorded.

Q2(a) Can I bring a partner?
Yes but space will be limited due to the small number of double rooms available. First in bookings will have priority for these partner spots.

Q2(b). If I bring my partner, how much will it cost for them?

Because they are not receiving banjo instruction it will be only $590.00.

Q3 If I come by myself will I be sharing a room with others?

Yes. Just like any Bluegrass Festival or Conference, to keep costs down for everyone we must dorm share the available rooms. However the maximum is only 4 per room with a number of 3 and 2 share, and they are very comfortable.

Q4. If I land at Brisbane Airport will there be transport to get to the camp?

To assist any Interstate attendees, we will be offering lifts from the airport to Tranquil Park on the Thursday departing between 9:00 and 11.00 am and returning to the Airport departing the camp site at around 2.00 pm on the Sunday. Let us know if you require transport when you book, and ensure that you allow enough time to connect from and with your flights.