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Since the announcement that 2025 will mark the final chapter of the beloved Bluesfest Byron Bay, the outpouring of love and support from the festival’s incredible community has been truly heartwarming. The messages received have deeply touched the Bluesfest team, reminding everyone of the powerful bond created through music and shared experiences.

“We want to extend our sincerest thanks to each and every one of you for your kind words and steadfast support,” said Peter Noble OAM, Festival Director of Bluesfest Byron Bay. “It’s been a journey of joy, challenges, and unforgettable music. Seeing your reactions has only strengthened our resolve to make this final Bluesfest a truly historic event. Thank you for being part of our story. Let’s make Bluesfest 2025 a testament to the spirit of this wonderful festival family.”

However, the fight isn’t over yet. Bluesfest Byron Bay, a cherished cultural institution and economic powerhouse in the region, is currently on the path to closing its doors. But there is hope.

Our NSW State Government MP, Tamara Smith, NSW member for Ballina (which includes Ballina and Byron shires in NSW), has taken a bold step to save Bluesfest by initiating an E-petition calling for a NSW Government rescue package. If 20,000 signatures from NSW residents are gathered, the NSW Parliament must hold a debate on the future of Bluesfest. This is a critical opportunity to rally together and ensure that one of Australia’s most iconic music festivals continues to thrive for years to come.

Why is Bluesfest Important?

Cultural Significance: Bluesfest has been a cornerstone of the state’s cultural landscape, bringing world-class music to Byron Bay and fostering a vibrant community of artists and music lovers.

Economic Impact: Over the last decade. 

o  Bluesfest generate $775 million for Byron Shire from festival goers spending in the community on accommodation, restaurants, etc. 

o   Plus over $1.1 billion in inbound tourism for NSW (people travelling from outside NSW or internationally)

o   Creating 7,182 fulltime jobs in the Northern Rivers and employing 25,000 music industry workers employed onsite at the festival.

Community Spirit: Bluesfest is more than just a festival – it’s a celebration of the arts, a driver of regional tourism, and a vital part of the local economy. We are the pride of our community for over 35 years.

Tamara Smith MP has made a powerful call to action, urging both the NSW and Federal Governments to step in and save Bluesfest. “Bluesfest is not just a festival; it’s a crucial part of our community, our economy, and our cultural identity,” she said.

How Can People Help?

We need your support to ensure that this message reaches the halls of Parliament. Here’s how you can help:

Sign the E-petition: Your signature can make a difference. Let the NSW Government know that Bluesfest matters to you and our community. You must be a NSW resident to sign.

If we reach 20,000 signatures, Parliament will be required to hold a debate on this critical issue.

SIGN PETITION HERE

Share the Petition: Spread the word through your network. Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to sign the petition and help us save Bluesfest. 

Share on Social Media: Use the hashtag #SaveBluesfest to show your support.

Raise Awareness: Talk about the importance of Bluesfest in your community. The more people know, the stronger our collective voice will be.

“We cannot afford to lose Bluesfest. It is imperative that we take collective action to ensure its survival for future generations to enjoy,” added Tamara Smith MP.

Thank you for standing with us. Together, we can make a difference and secure the future of Bluesfest.

About Bluesfest Byron Bay

Bluesfest Byron Bay has been Australia’s premier contemporary Blues, Roots, and Beyond music festival since 1990. What started as a humble celebration of Blues & Roots music has grown into one of the most significant music festivals in the world. Of our many awards being recognized in the top 10 music festivals of the world from Pollstar, demonstrates the significance of this festival not just locally but around the world. 

Over the years, the festival has hosted an incredible array of iconic artists, including Blues legends like BB King and Buddy Guy, music legends such as Santana, James Brown, Bob Dylan, Mavis Staples, Paul Simon, Bonnie Rait and Robert Plant, and contemporary greats like Dave Matthews Band, Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, John Mayer, Mary J Blige, and Kendrick Lamar, who made his first festival appearance in Australia at Bluesfest. Let’s not forget the amazing Australian artists that have played such as Cold Chisel, Midnight Oil, Kasey Chambers and Crowded House and so many more.

The final Bluesfest will be a four-day event, offering a power-packed experience that will close the curtain on this legendary institution. Held over the Easter long weekend from April 17 to 20, 2025, at the beautiful 300-acre Byron Events Farm, just 11km north of Byron Bay, the festival will continue to uphold its commitment to quality, featuring multiple stages and a diverse lineup that spans the best in Blues, Roots Music, and Beyond.

This final edition is not just the end of an era; it’s a celebration of everything that Bluesfest has stood for over the past 35 plus years – music, community, and unforgettable experiences.

Recognised globally for its excellence, Bluesfest has earned numerous accolades, making it the most awarded music festival in the Australian entertainment industry.

Awards include:

– 1 WIN at the Keeping the Blues Alive Award Memphis for Bluesfest Director Peter Noble 
– 9 WINS at the NSW Tourism Awards for Major Festivals and Events – (6 Gold, 3 Silver) 
– Induction into the NSW Tourism Awards Hall of Fame in 2019 for three wins a row.
– 8 WINS at the North Coast Tourism Awards for Major Festivals & Events   
– 4 WINS at the Helpmann Awards for Best Contemporary Music Festival (Ceremony for Australia’s most talented and celebrated performers and industry) 
– 1 WIN at the Helpmann Awards for Best International Contemporary Concert 
– 8 WINS at the Australian Event Awards for  Best Cultural & Music and Event of The Year 
– 6 NOMINATIONS for NSW for Major Festivals & Events at the Australian Tourism Awards (2 Silver, 1 Bronze) 
– 10 NOMINATIONS at the Pollstar Awards (USA) for International Festival of the Year  (No other Australian Festival nominated in this or last decade)
– 1 WIN at the Pollstar Awards (USA) for International Festival of the Decade with a top 10 finish in 2021. 
– 1 WIN at the first Variety Awards for Festival of the Year

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AMNPLIFY – DB