The following are two historic videos of the early days and formative years of the Billabong Band, produced by the ABC.
They were screened at a special VFMC event on Sunday 11 October 2026.
(Click or tap video to start and then double ended arrow, top left corner to enlarge)

Short video about 6 minutes

Longer video about 30 minutes

Joy Durst

Following the screening of the two films at the VFMC event, member Stephen Whiteside, presented an informative and interesting biographical account of well known folk pioneer, Joy Durst. Joy, who features in both the above films, founded the Billabong Band (with Frank Nickels), and was an important figure in the early folk music scene in Melbourne. She was also one of the founding members of 'The Victorian Bush Music Club' and was responsible for changing its name to 'The Victorian Folk Music Club' to allow for the inclusion of contemporary songs.

Joy Durst bio.

Stella Lees

Stephen also interviewed one of the VFMC's early pioneering women, Stella Lees, in February 2026.
The recording will be added upon receiving family permission.

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