Local bands are coming together this weekend to thank Scotts Brewing Co and the community for the ongoing support.

Nine local acts are performing at the brewery this Saturday (March 1) from 1pm, to showcase their talent, and also show their gratitude, says Jay Morriss, who plays guitar for The Reveal and Deluxe, who will both be playing.

Jay says the Live and Local event was the idea of one of the drummers, Toni Natapu.

“It was actually put together as a thank you to Scotts and the community for the support that we've had for musicians having somewhere to play and perform.”

Over the summer, Scotts has had local bands playing Sunday Sessions, in the afternoons. 

“Everyone's really appreciated having the Sundays especially because I don't think anyone's doing that in town.

“It's quite a low-key welcoming environment for families, and usually that music emanates beyond the boundaries of Scotts itself, and you can hear it down at Friendly Bay, down Harbour Street, and in all honesty, probably the houses within a 1km radius,” Jay says.

Having the support of local venues in general is great for people to experience live music, he says.

“And hopefully be encouraged to maybe, well obviously continue listening, but maybe even take up an instrument themselves.”

Dee May & the Saints. Photo: Supplied

Bands will play until about 11pm, and there will be two stages.

“So, as soon as one band ends, another will begin on the other stage.”  

The event will happen regardless of the weather, but the forecast is looking fine, Jay says. 

People should be familiar with most of the musicians, having seen them play locally, but it would be the first time performing in public for a few, Jay says.

He is particularly grateful to Scotts general manager Brooke Kofoed who he says has been instrumental in ensuring the success of the Sunday Sessions.

“And the staff have been great as well. It's just a really welcoming environment.”

The bands playing on Saturday are Dee May & the Saints, Whitestone City Rockers, $1 Ice Cream Band, Te Band, Southern Rust, Deluxe, The Reveal, The Bonny T120s, and Same Same Different.