Passion and persistence help keep Nambour’s music scene alive

by Cameron Outridge

The Presynct in Nambour is quietly leading a grassroots revival of the live music scene—powered by the determination of owner Rusty Nyman and her daughter Cherry.

The duo have turned the second floor of a quiet CBD building into a home for emerging artists, touring acts and music lovers, earning a loyal following and praise from industry and government alike.

Unlike many venues that lease space, The Presynct is owner-operated. “We can put a lot more love into it that way,” said Rusty. That love is evident in every corner of the venue—from the stage to the bar to the warmly lit seating area recently upgraded with the help of a State Government grant.

But it’s not just the bricks and mortar that matter—it’s the joy the space brings. 

“I think I’m addicted to seeing people happy and smiling,” Rusty said. 

“When you look out in this room and it’s full and people are dancing and laughing … it’s just such a joy to see.”

Creating a platform for local talent was a key part of the mission. 

“We give [young bands] full freedom on how they want to run their show,” she said. 

And with better-known acts now starting to take notice, local artists are being offered rare opportunities to support more established performers.

Still, Rusty is realistic about the challenges. After the recent cyclone and amid rising living costs, she’s seen attendance dip. 

“It isn’t easy at the moment,” she said.“People have been, especially in our local town, have been financially under pressure. 

“So we have noticed a big drop in numbers coming through in the last couple of weeks. 

“But we just want to keep carrying on with it and trying to continue to offer what we can because people need music, they need arts, they need this to feel better.” 

She believes Nambour and The Presynct have something unique to offer. “It’s not like Maroochydore or Noosa where there’s lots of other things happening. They have to literally decide, I’m going to go in to Nambour to go to The Precynct. So bands know that when they’re playing on stage, the people that are here, are literally only here for them. For me that’s very authentic.”

• For upcoming events or to get involved, visit www.thepresynct.com.au or follow The Presynct on social media.

Cherry and Rusty Nyman.