Sunshine Coast musicians say they are shocked Groovin The Moo has been cancelled just months from its scheduled Birtinya chapter.

The festival, which sold out in days last year, was expecting 35,000 music revellers at the Sunshine Coast Stadium Precinct on May 5.

A vicious cycle for ticket sales

Nambour drummer Bailey Walker, from Dellacoma, Sailing In Space, The Justus Trio and Banned From The Club, says festivals are too reliant on early ticket sales.

“I think this is just the latest example of the vicious cycle between punters who can’t afford the commitment months in advance and event organisers who can’t afford to run the event if people don’t buy tickets earlier than two days beforehand.

“Who know how we break this loop.”

Local artist Karlou says she is “deeply saddened” that Groovin won’t be back this year.

“It is such a wonderful platform for local artists to play on a big stage among their idols.

“I was blessed to have that opportunity, and I’m really devastated that other local artists won’t be able to have that same opportunity this year!” 

Major acts no more

Youth Yindi descendants King Stingray and Australian music royalty DMA’s, Hot Dub Time Machine, The Jungle Giants, Mallrat, San Cisco and Alison Wonderland were to headline the festival.

International acts GZA from Wu-Tang, Spice Girls’ Melanie C (AKA Sporty Spice), and The Kooks, were also scheduled.

Organisers announced the news on social media today:

“We are extremely disappointed to announce that the Groovin the Moo 2024 tour has been forced to cancel.

“Ticket sales have not been sufficient to deliver a regional festival of this kind. All tickets will be refunded automatically.

“Thank you to everybody who has supported the festival. We hope to be able to bring Groovin the Moo back to regional communities in the future.”

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