Caltowie Chilled Out ‘n’ Fired Up Music Festival is back this 2025, set to shake up the scene on Saturday, March 22nd. So it is time to lock in that fast approaching date.

Affectionately dubbed Caltowie COFU for the sake of brevity, this revered rural music festival was first held in 2019 at the Caltowie Oval. (Caltowie is a town in the Mid North region of South Australia, located between Gladstone and Jamestown.) The primary goal of the festival was - and still is - to raise funds for mental health initiatives within the local region and to destigmatise discussions of mental wellbeing. A worthy cause, as recent reports indicate that mental health resources in the rural South Australian area are vastly inadequate (in stark contrast to the Adelaide metro area). In fact, reports have found that there are fewer psychiatrists in the state per person than in Mongolia, Ukraine, or Russia.

The event organisers state, “The focus and drive of our vision is to unite the community in support of mental health and to reduce the stigma associated with discussing depression, anxiety, and suicide. Essentially, we promote that ‘it’s ok to not be ok,’ and that someone is always there to listen. Depression, anxiety, and suicide among rural communities is tragically on the rise. The importance to remain connected to each other and the community is paramount.”

Caltowie COFU aims to raise funds for Lifeline (the non-profit crisis support service) in South Australia. Additionally, proceeds from ticket sales are funnelled into programs in Caltowie’s community schools.

Indeed, what better way to raise awareness and destigmatize these issues than in a musical environment? Music - as several psychologists and mental health experts confirm - is simply good for your emotional well-being.

The day will be shot through with vitality and fun - a massive range of food trucks and license bars will be on offer, as well as two huge bonfires, and free on-site camping. But, most importantly, there will be twelve hours of Australian music to enjoy.

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Australian rock outfit The Superjesus are set to headline the festival. Other electrifying acts include South Aussie bands Molly Rocket, Funk Me, and more.

There is still a smattering of tickets available, so snap them up while you can, and support this vital cause.

If you or someone you know is impacted by any of the issues discussed above, please call 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au.