Tinker & Mike – Live at The Old City Bank
Saturday 14 November 2026 | 8:00 PM | Free Entry
The Old City Bank Bar & Brasserie, Katoomba
Get ready for an irresistible evening of lively fiddle tunes, infectious accordion rhythms, warm harmonies and good old-fashioned musical entertainment as celebrated Australian country music veteran Mike Kerin joins forces with his partner, accordionist and vocalist Tinker Duffy, for another wonderful night of live music at The Old City Bank in Katoomba.
Combining decades of remarkable musical experience with an infectious enthusiasm for performing, Tinker & Mike bring together the rich traditions of Australian country, folk, bush music and Celtic-inspired dance tunes in a performance that is guaranteed to get toes tapping and spirits soaring.
Their music is joyful, energetic and wonderfully spontaneous, drawing on the warmth of traditional acoustic instruments and the special chemistry that comes from two accomplished performers who genuinely love making music together.
Mike Kerin – A Legend of Australian Country Music
With a career spanning more than four decades, Mike Kerin is one of Australia's most respected fiddle players and a celebrated figure in the nation's country and roots music heritage.
A winner of six Golden Guitar Awards, Mike has performed and recorded alongside some of the biggest names in Australian music, establishing a reputation for his exceptional musicianship, versatility and unmistakable fiddle sound.
During the 1980s, Mike spent ten years performing with the legendary country-rock outfit The Flying Emus, whose energetic fusion of bluegrass, country and roots music helped redefine Australian country music for a new generation.
He subsequently became a longtime member of Slim Dusty's touring band, spending more than twenty years performing alongside one of Australia's most beloved musical icons.
His remarkable musical journey has also included performances with Anne Kirkpatrick, The Bushwackers and numerous other distinguished Australian artists.
Beyond the country music stage, Mike's extraordinary versatility has taken him into the world of classical music. He was a featured performer on the ABC fiddle recording The Devil's Instrument and has appeared as a guest artist with the Australian Chamber Orchestra, touring throughout Australia and internationally to Slovenia.
Today, Mike continues to perform regularly with Travelling Still, a group featuring members of Slim Dusty's Travelling Country Band, helping to keep alive the music and enduring legacy of Australia's most celebrated country music storyteller.
Tinker Duffy – Accordion, Vocals and Irresistible Energy
Joining Mike is his musical and life partner, Tinker Duffy, whose spirited accordion playing and engaging vocals bring an infectious sense of fun and celebration to their performances.
Tinker's rhythmic, dance-inducing accordion provides the perfect complement to Mike's expressive fiddle playing, creating a lively musical partnership that moves effortlessly between traditional tunes, country favourites and joyful folk-inspired arrangements.
Together, the pair have developed a wonderful musical connection, combining technical excellence with a relaxed, approachable performance style that welcomes audiences into the music.
Whether performing a spirited instrumental, a familiar country song or a tune that invites everyone onto the dance floor, Tinker & Mike have a natural ability to create an atmosphere of warmth, humour and shared enjoyment.
A Musical Family Affair
The duo are also known for occasionally expanding their performances into a multigenerational musical celebration.
They are regularly joined by Mike's son, Dan Kerin, a talented multi-instrumentalist and singer, and Dan's longtime musical collaborator Asha Constance, whose beautiful vocals and expressive stage presence add another dimension to the group's sound.
When performing together, the extended ensemble blends youthful energy and fresh musical ideas with the experience and traditions of the older generation, creating delightful vocal harmonies and a wonderfully varied repertoire.
Although additional performers are not confirmed for this particular evening, the musical connections within this talented family and circle of friends are an important part of what makes Tinker & Mike such an engaging act.
Local Favourites at The Old City Bank
While Mike's musical career has taken him across Australia and around the world, he and Tinker are also much-loved members of the Blue Mountains community.
Both are closely associated with Katoomba's historic Carrington Hotel, where Tinker works at reception and Mike is part of the maintenance team.
Their performances have become a familiar and popular part of the hotel's live entertainment calendar, including appearances during the Carrington's annual Yulefest celebrations.
The Old City Bank Bar & Brasserie, located within the iconic Carrington Hotel precinct, provides the ideal setting for their lively and intimate style of performance.
With its historic character, welcoming atmosphere, relaxed dining and well-stocked bar, it's a wonderful place to gather with friends, enjoy a meal and experience some of the finest traditional musicianship Australia has to offer.
Whether you're a longtime admirer of Australian country music, a lover of traditional fiddle and accordion tunes or simply looking for a great Saturday night out in Katoomba, Tinker & Mike promise an evening of exceptional music, infectious rhythms and genuine entertainment.
Come along, enjoy the atmosphere and experience two outstanding local musicians whose love of music is matched only by their ability to share it with an audience.
And best of all, admission is completely free!