Newcastle’s own Anton Fitchat and the Smokkelhuiz Band rubbed shoulders with some of the biggest names in the Afrikaans music industry at the 2026 Afri-Indie Music Awards on August 25.

Mingling with the stars

The Newcastle musicians had the opportunity to mingle with big names including Nadine, Bobby van Jaarsveld, Armand Joubert and Elandrè, among others.

Anton thanked Afri-Indie for the invitation while congratulating all the artists who walked away with a prestigious award.

Smokkelhuiz was nominated for Best Rock Single for their latest song, ‘Mure’.

Although they didn’t win, the band said they were extremely grateful for the nomination, which in itself was a remarkable achievement.

In a statement posted to their official Facebook page, the band said,

“Dankie Afri-Indie Onafhanklike Kunstenaartoekennings en Rea le Roux Musiek vir ‘n stunning aand. It was fun. Baie geluk aan al die gonimeerdes en wenners. Till 2027. Dankie aan almal wat ons bygestaan het en gehelp het, spesiale dank aan Ruan Zaayman, Supa Quick Volksrust, en Supa Quick Tyre Experts Newcastle, sonder julle sou ons dit nie kon bywoon nie.”

Well done to both Anton and Smokkelhuiz Band on their achievements in the music industry!

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