The Cobbers

The Cobbers were a prominent Australian bush and folk music group that emerged in the early 1970s, helping to bring traditional Australian folk and bush music beyond the folk club scene to a wider audience across pubs, clubs, schools, and media. Originating from Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, they initially performed in local pubs and coffee lounges before forming officially in 1974 under the name Cobbers – The Bonza Bush Band. The band was known for their dedication to authentic Australian folk sounds, featuring members such as Christy Cooney, John Armstrong, Chris Armstrong, and Maitland "Maity" Swallow. They established their own record label, Bushland Records, and released their debut album, a live recording entitled "All For Me Grog," in 1975. Over a career spanning more than three decades, despite lineup changes and personal tragedies including the loss of their bassist Mark "Blossom" Brown in 1979, the Cobbers remained a vital force in the Australian folk scene until they ceased full-time activity by 1989 and officially disbanded in 1998, with occasional reunions thereafter for tribute and benefit concerts.

Their impact was significant in the Australian folk/bush revival movement, and they helped make this distinctly Australian musical tradition accessible and popular with broader audiences for over 30 years. Their music includes a mix of traditional songs and original material that celebrates Australian heritage, resonating deeply with fans of folk music in Australia and beyond.