Live Original Music Videos
I originally wrote this fun song in 2019 after joining the Humpbacks Masters Swimming Club at Hervey Bay. There are a significant number of swimming groups here. I also used to sail at Hervey Bay as a teenager. In recent times, some friends and I have been paddling the Moonaboola (Mary) River. It has become clearer that this region has spectacular waterways so I rewrote the lyrics to include many of the water sports. Some of the Cool Country Music Club members kindly helped record it on a couple of handicams.
Live performance of “I’m a Croc” with Ken McDonald. The back-up band are regulars at the Cool Country Club, Hervey Bay. They are often called the Cool Country Band. Left to right: Dougie Alexander is a brilliant Country lead guitarist and solo player; Mike Oakes, band leader, singer, songwriter, harmony singer and drummer; Richard with the bandana is a singer and terrific bass player; Kerry McDonald on drums plays pedal steel guitar, keyboards, bass, drums, lead guitar; Myself, songwriter, singer, guitar strummer; Bruce plays rhythm, lead and sings often with his wife; Fred, writes songs, sings, plays excellent blues and rock and roll lead guitar. I feel very fortunate to be able to play music with them all. This was one take after about 5 practices.
Woodgate is a relaxing seaside beach town north of Hervey Bay. Woodgate is scenic with a mild climate so good holidays.
"Up in the Collar" was an expression to describe beasts of burden like bullocks, pulling heavy loads. Some beasts were always hard working ie. "Up in the Collar". The same term was used for hard working people. The song is, in part, a tribute to a friend in Hervey Bay who passed away in 2023. There are many more like him.
A 50 year reunion. This song was written and performed by Ken at our 2022, 50 year reunion of Mining/Metallurgical/Petroleum Engineering students from UQ. It was a fantastic week-end at Byron Bay organised by Peter Coulson and hosted by Brian and Peggy Flannery. Most of us had little or no contact over 50 years. Likewise, many of the ladies met for the first time. Three people in the video were unable to attend. I feel proud to be part of this talented and friendly group. It was thoroughly enjoyable. Thanks to all of you. Ken
Cool Country Band in Hervey Bay
The Maryborough to Pialba rail line was completed in 1896, with an extension to Urangan in 1913. This Hervey Bay line was decommissioned in the 1990’s. Since then 25 km of the 48km line has been developed as a rail trail for bike riders, horse riders, walkers and nature lovers. I am working with other volunteers and contractors to further develop sections in attractive, open woodland forest. I collect ideas from other rail trails in Queensland. This song popped into my head while bike riding one day. Thanks to the Cool Country band for giving the song a step up. Hope you get hooked as well.
Ken McDonald and The Redland Rockers
Ken McDonald Brylee Langley and The Redland City Choir
I wrote this song to sing with the Redland City Choir at their annual Christmas concert at RPAC, Cleveland, Brisbane. This was the 2015 concert. The choir are volunteers with no auditioning.