Avon Descent 2026 | Live Music at Riverside Gardens with the City of Bayswater
There's something special about performing at community events that bring people of all ages together, and the 2026 Avon Descent Festival at Riverside Gardens in Bayswater was no exception.
On Sunday 9th August, I had the pleasure of returning to perform for the City of Bayswater, this time alongside the incredibly talented Dan Garner, entertaining festival-goers from 11:30am until 2:30pm on the main entertainment stage. Guiding everyone through the afternoon was the ever-charismatic Jessie James, who did a fantastic job as Master of Ceremonies and kept the energy flowing throughout the event.
Ruby Miguel and Dan Garner | Avon Descent, City of Bayswater 2026
Live Music for Every Generation
One of my favourite things about community festivals is creating a set list that genuinely has something for everyone.
With families spread across the grass, competitors crossing the finish line and spectators enjoying the atmosphere along the river, we wanted the music to feel relaxed, familiar and uplifting.
Our afternoon featured a mix of classics and modern favourites including:
Take It Easy – Eagles
Dreams – Fleetwood Mac
Man I Need – Olivia Dean
April Sun in Cuba – Dragon
From timeless singalongs to contemporary favourites, it was wonderful seeing people of all ages stopping to listen, tapping their feet, singing along and simply enjoying the atmosphere.
A Beautiful Day on the River
I was fortunate enough to perform at the Avon Descent last year as well, and while it was still a fantastic event, the weather certainly had other plans. Heavy rain had turned much of Riverside Gardens into mud, making load-in, set-up and moving around the site a little more adventurous than usual!
This year couldn't have been more different. The sunshine was out, the crowds were enjoying the beautiful winter weather and the festival had such a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. It was wonderful to see Riverside Gardens looking its best and families making the most of the day.
Ironically, while conditions on land were much drier for everyone attending the festival, the competitors faced a different challenge. Due to exceptionally low rainfall across the Wheatbelt this winter, organisers revised the traditional Avon Descent course, moving the race start downstream from Northam to Katrine Crossing to ensure safe water levels for competitors.
It was a reminder of just how closely this iconic Western Australian event is connected to the seasons and our natural environment.
Grateful to Be Part of Another Incredible Community Event
Events like the Avon Descent are a fantastic reminder of why I love what I do.
It's never just about playing songs, it's about creating an atmosphere where people can relax, connect with friends and family, celebrate local events and make lasting memories together.
A huge thank you to the City of Bayswater for inviting me back again this year, to Dan Garner for another fantastic performance together, to Jessie James for keeping the crowd entertained throughout the day, and to everyone who stopped by the stage to listen, sing along or simply enjoy the music.
I already can't wait to do it all again next year.
Looking for Live Music for Your Community Event?
Whether you're organising a community festival, council event, corporate function, riverside activation, family day or major public celebration, I provide professional live music tailored to suit audiences of all ages.
As a vocalist, pianist, guitarist and the founder of Boutique Music Perth, I work with a hand-selected collective of musicians to create engaging live entertainment that complements your event and leaves a lasting impression.
Planning an upcoming event? I'd love to hear from you.
