Cultural Development Association Norfolk Island

Winter Solstice

On Sunday the 15th of June, the New Military Barracks lit up—literally—for the Winter Solstice concert, and it was something special.

The historic stone walls of the barracks made a stunning backdrop for an evening of music, lights, and community. The Wana Band kicked things off as the sun went down, followed by DJ Tay and then DJ Wes, who brought a younger crowd out onto the grass to dance under the stars.

One of the highlights was the outer walls lighting up and an art projection that gave the whole place a wonderful feel. It was winter in full swing!

Kevin Knapp, who organised the event, said the Winter Solstice is his second favourite day of the year. “It’s when the days start getting longer,” he said.

Credit: Ryan Decaria

"It's a lovely excuse to be outside and soak up the beauty of winter.” His all-time favourite day? The first time each year when the Spring Peepers (little frogs from New Hampshire) start their “peeping” calls. “It means the ground’s thawing and spring is on the way.”

Kevin said he loved seeing so many people come out for the show—playing with the Wana Band as the lights came on, and then watching the space shift into something totally different later at night with DJ Wes’s set.

A massive thank you to everyone who made the night happen: Rick Robertson and Pendo for sound and their expertise, the artists (Wana Band, DJ Tay, DJ Wes), Pine Tree Tours for lending us lights, The Wanderer, the trusty cocktail van, for keeping everyone refreshed and in good spirits. the Administrator's Office and Department of Infrastructure for the site license, and CDANI (Cultural Development Association of Norfolk Island) for providing public liability insurance. Source: Norfolk Online News. 15 June 2025.