Not only do they have a brand new recording studio, they have also joined forces with a multi award winning international music producer. Stephan Van der Merwe is an audio engineer/music producer/sound designer/composer who moved to town with his partner Cathy Treasure (our newly appointed Elvis Festival Director) and their children. 

Originally from South Africa, Stephan has lived and worked all over the world. 

“I was thinking of opening a recording studio while I am in Parkes, and when I spoke to Batty about it he had been considering it as well,” Stephan said.

“So we joined forces and made it happen.”

Vula Music, trading under Batty’s Music and Recording Studio, took a couple of weeks to set up and even less time to attract their first client, 82-year-old Patricia Bryden.

Patricia wrote a song for her late brother nearly five years ago and she wants “it out there for the farmers”.

“The song is in memory of Jack Anthony and what he achieved in his lifetime,” she said. 

“He ran the family farm in Hampton and also worked for the RTA in Lithgow for 50 years.”

An ongoing court case was not finalised before cancer claimed Jack’s life. He called his sister from his death bed and asked her to see it through for him. Jack won the case, but he never knew it. The song is called JC’s Win.  Patricia hopes the finished track will get some air time with local radio stations.

Stephan provides recording and producing facilities for a wide variety of up and coming musical talents.  

If you are a solo musician or a whole band, or even a karaoke singer who wants to record your voice on backing music, Stephan can make it happen. 

Another local project Batty and Stephan are involved in is Chill Zone, an open mic event held at the Cambridge Hotel on a Saturday afternoon. Whether you are a musician, poet, or comedian you’re are most welcome to get on stage and have a go. 

The next Chill Zone will be held on October 8.