Sydney's pro-marriage equality event YesFest has been cancelled just over a week out from its planned show date of 29 October, with organisers citing "multiple unforeseen circumstances" for the axing.
According to Broadsheet, organiser Jonno Seidler explained in a statement that there had been myriad reasons to pull the pin, saying, "It was a combination of factors beyond our control" including people's complacency to the vote after the sustained campaign, market saturation, funding and a "general malaise when it comes to ticket sales".
Fellow organiser Prue Parnell, of co-presenters M&C Saatchi, conceded that the event "was always a huge project to pull off in a short amount of time, and unfortunately, we're unable to move forward".
The event, which was to be held in the 24,000-capacity Spotless Stadium, was to welcome appearances from Jimmy Barnes, Tkay Maidza, Client Liaison, Killing Heidi, The Preatures, KLP, Flight Facilities and more.
In a separate statement, YesFest's organisers thanked those who had lent the event their support — "the artists, the brands, the partners and the venues that have been so dedicated to the cause".
Pedestrian reports that refunds will be issued to all ticket-holders, with Seidler urging supporters to ensure they've voted and "make some noise".
"There is a myriad of people who vehemently believe that the job is not done yet," the organisers wrote. "And we will continue to work passionately to encourage people to vote YES and get Marriage Equality through Parliament."
