The Mik Maks Bring Family Fun and Heart to Gympie Music Muster 2025
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
The Gympie Music Muster, renowned for its diverse musical offerings and commitment to community, is set to welcome a vibrant new addition to its 2025 lineup: The Mik Maks. This dynamic family band, known for their high-energy country rock and playful humor, will be making their Muster debut, significantly bolstering the much-loved Gympie 4 x 4 Kids Country program. Their performance promises to be a highlight, not just for its entertainment value, but also for its poignant connection to the Muster’s charity partner, River’s Gift.
A Country Roots Story with Global Reach
Originating from farming land in Victoria, founding member Joel McInnes, alongside his brother Al, brings a genuine love for country music to The Mik Maks’ sound. As Joel recounts, “Growing up it was either working on the farm, playing sport or playing music, and we find it pretty cool we now get to perform at major festivals like the Muster — where we can entertain families and enjoy all the other music on offer.” This authentic background infuses their music with a down-to-earth charm that resonates with audiences of all ages.
While The Mik Maks boast an astonishing global presence with 8.4 million YouTube subscribers and over 7.6 billion streams, their focus remains firmly on their Australian fanbase. Their live shows are where their unique blend of upbeat country rock and “loads of family banter” truly shines. The band’s current lineup includes Joel, Al, their beloved “wise old drumming friend” Drums the Panda, and Joel’s 17-year-old daughter, Ava. Ava’s inclusion has brought “a whole new energy to the show,” creating a strong connection with young girls in the audience and adding another layer to their already engaging performances. Attendees can expect a set packed with their most popular songs, including the ones that have propelled their online success.
More Than Just Music: A Heartfelt Connection to River’s Gift
The Mik Maks’ appearance at the 2025 Muster takes on an even deeper significance due to their long-standing relationship with River’s Gift, Australia’s leading SIDS research and awareness organization and the Muster’s 2025 charity partner. Joel shared, “We’ve been involved with River’s Gift for around 10 years. We know Karl and Alex personally — Karl used to live just up the street. When we heard their story, we really resonated with it — we all had babies at the time and it hit hard.”
This personal connection inspired The Mik Maks to write and release “Hope the Elephant,” a song named after River’s Gift’s big, blue, beautiful mascot designed to bring light to a confronting subject. This song has become a staple in their live performances, serving as their way of supporting River’s Gift’s vital work in finding a cure and preventative strategies for SIDS. Their performance on August 30 will be part of “SOS (Stamp Out SIDS) Saturday,” taking over the Optus Hill Stage at 11 am with a show filled with music, laughter, and plenty of surprises, all while raising crucial awareness for this important cause.
A Welcome Addition to the Muster Family
Gympie Music Muster Program Director Bec Anderson expressed her excitement about The Mik Maks’ debut, stating, “The Mik Maks are world-class children’s entertainers, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to the Muster for the first time. They bring so much joy and energy, and their performances are a big reminder that the Muster really does have something for everyone — from age 0 to 99 and beyond.”
Gympie Music Muster CEO Greg Cavanagh echoed this sentiment, highlighting how The Mik Maks’ inclusion reinforces the Muster’s broad appeal and strong community values. “Having children’s artists of this calibre at the Muster is something we’re incredibly proud of,” Greg said. “Their connection to River’s Gift, their commitment to family entertainment, and their incredible success on a global stage all align beautifully with what the Muster stands for — great music, strong community, and entertainment for every generation.”
Beyond The Mik Maks, the Gympie 4 x 4 Kids Country program promises a wealth of entertainment for younger festivalgoers and their families. This year’s lineup also features beloved entertainers like Colin Buchanan, Magic Glen, Allioopsy, and Kerry Neill Songs And Stories. Complementing the musical acts, Kids Country will offer a range of activities, including laser tag, face painting, arts and crafts, yard games, a sandpit, and a new Parent’s Hub for feeding and nappy changes, ensuring a truly comprehensive and enjoyable experience for families attending the Muster. The addition of The Mik Maks undeniably elevates the Gympie Music Muster’s commitment to providing world-class entertainment for all ages, while also underscoring its dedication to meaningful community partnerships.