In 1986, a simple but powerful idea took shape in the heart of Bellingen. With encouragement from renowned author Bryce Courtenay—whom he had worked alongside in the advertising world—Bill Lockley created what would become a beloved institution: Camp Creative.
Bill was a passionate advocate for the arts and a firm believer in the power of creativity to bring people together. Although he humbly described himself as “not gifted,” those who knew him remember something far more important—his infectious enthusiasm, generosity of spirit, and unwavering love of music, especially the violin.
He was an active and joyful participant in Camp Creative over the years. His final performances were with the Multimode Musos, conducted by the extraordinary Chris Belshaw—a fitting finale for someone who embraced music with such wholehearted dedication.
A Scholarship in His Honour
Following Bill’s passing in mid-2000, the committee sought a meaningful way to continue his legacy. The result was the establishment of the Bill Lockley Scholarship—an annual award of $1,000 presented to a Year 6 (or equivalent) student.
The scholarship was created with two original criteria:
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The recipient would enrol at Bellingen High School in the following year.
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The recipient would specialise in a stringed instrument, honouring Bill’s deep love of the violin.
While the requirement to attend Bellingen High was later removed, the spirit of the scholarship has remained the same: to support and encourage young string players who demonstrate commitment, passion, and promise—qualities Bill himself embodied so wholeheartedly.
Supporting the Next Generation
The first recipient of the scholarship was Lachlan Wilkins in 2010. Since then, many talented young musicians have followed in his footsteps, each carrying forward Bill’s spirit of participation and perseverance.
The most recent recipient, Claude (2026), delivered a memorable duet at the 40-Year Celebrity Concert—a celebration that showcased just how enduring Bill’s influence has been. Remarkably, around 80% of the performers at that concert were members of the Bellingen Youth Orchestra (BYO), a testament to the thriving musical community that continues to grow in our region.
Bill’s legacy is not simply remembered—it is lived, performed, and passed on.
From the 2026 Scholarship Recipient
“I feel honoured to receive this award. It has helped me feel more confident and comfortable performing on stage and I am excited to use the scholarship towards a new violin case to support my playing. I am very grateful to everyone who has been involved in this process—especially Rob Stockton for making this possible and the Bellingen Youth Orchestra for guiding and supporting me along the way. I hope this scholarship inspires others, as it has inspired me, to continue their musical journey.”
— Claude, aged 12
These words capture exactly what the Bill Lockley Scholarship was designed to do: build confidence, nurture talent, and inspire young musicians to continue their journey.
Nearly four decades after the first Camp Creative, Bill Lockley’s influence remains strong. His belief that enthusiasm matters more than perfection, and that participation is its own reward, continues to shape young performers year after year.
Bill’s legacy is alive and well—and playing beautifully.
