Bluesfest demise 'like a loved one dying' as Byron Bay counts the cost of loss
www.abc.net.au
After 35 years, one of Australia's most iconic music festivals will hold its "final curtain call". Musicians and community members are devastated by the news.
  • In short: Musicians, industry experts and local businesses are dismayed by the decision to end Byron’s Bluesfest next year.
  • There are calls for the government to provide a financial lifeline to the multi-day music festival. What’s next?
  • The final edition of Bluesfest will be held at Byron Bay from April 17-20, 2025.
  • MuffinHeeler
    4·
    11 days ago

    Probably insurance, permit fees and marketing at a wild guess.

    • 𝚝𝚛𝚔English
      3·
      1 month ago

      I reckon there’s an opening for councils to provide insurance for big events like this at a more reasonable cost.

      Or even free, assuming certain criteria are met.

      If there’s that much money to be injected in to the local community, councils stepping up to make it viable is still going to be a huge net financial positive.

      Also if a festival is spending less (nothing?) on insurance and permits, they can spend more on extending the event or having more performers. Or cheaper entry prices.