Bluesfest Intends To Go Ahead This Weekend Despite Brisbane Lockdown

Bluesfest has released a statement confirming it will still be going ahead this Easter long weekend, but with some restrictions in place that will affect Brisbane ticketholders affected by today’s snap lockdown announcement.

Based on advice from NSW Health, Bluesfest has said they will not be “allowing ticket holders that are affected by the three-day Queensland lockdown to attend the festival on the first day, Thursday April 1”.

“We will keep ticket buyers from the affected area updated and advise them to check with the Queensland government to check regularly for updates on the current three-day lockdown,” the statement said.

“The lockdowns cover the council areas of Brisbane, Ipswich, Moreton Bay, Logan, and Redlands. We are in continuous conversation with NSW Health and are committed to provide patron, artist, and staff safety at all times, when visiting Bluesfest. This is our biggest priority, and we will keep you updated.”

At a press conference earlier today, NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard noted: “Thursday is out of any question if you listened to what your government is saying. If the Government in Queensland extends the lockdown period, and we are not saying they will at this stage, but if they do, clearly people who have bought or are buying tickets from Brisbane are not welcome to attend the festival.

Don't miss a beat with our FREE daily newsletter

“I have spoken to the organisers and I understand arrangements put in place for refunds.

“In essence people who have not been to Brisbane or been to the areas that have been highlighted by the Greater Brisbane area; highlighted by the Queensland government, yes you are welcome, but nobody else during this particular period, so just be very cautious on that front.

“And tickets are still on sale to everyone not coming from the affected areas.”

Festival Director Peter Noble will “remain in close contact” with NSW Health and Hazzard in the coming days.

Taking over Byron Events Farm (formerly Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm) from 1-5 April, this year’s Bluesfest will be an all-Aussie affair, featuring Jimmy Barnes, The Teskey Brothers, Tash Sultana, Kasey Chambers, Kev Carmody, Ocean Alley, Russell Morris, Briggs, The Living End and more.