The cafe commenced its busking program in November, 2016, after the success of the Local Emerging Artists Program performance sessions, as a way to provide a platform to musicians in a community. 

Ages of performers vary, but the youngest performer the cafe has seen was 12 years old, while the eldest was in their mid-70s. 

Mad Season owner Sharon McLaughlin said busking has proved to be really helpful for artists looking to get exposure for their music. 

“[The audience] makes it a really friendly environment for the young kids, give feedback and drop a few coins in for them,” she said.

“It has proved really worthwhile, particularly for the young kids, but also for the older people who don’t get out as much and haven’t had a venue for their music.

“People who play here always re-book, they enjoy it that much.”

Busking sessions are held each Saturday at the cafe and every fortnight benefit from the extra people in Macquarie Plaza for the Co-Op Mini Markets.

“I want to thank the Bathurst community for getting together and coming down to support these kids,” Ms McLaughlin said.