Peking Duk Raise Huge Amount With Last-minute Fire Relief Gig

Following news yesterday that Falls Festival in Lorne had been cancelled due to "extreme weather conditions", Peking Duk pulled together a last-minute fire relief fundraiser which raised $50,000.

Featuring support from Benson and DJ MIMI, with guest appearances from Tones & I and G-Flip who were “ratting the donation tins for some extra dollars for relief”, The Espy gig was organised in less than six hours, with Peking Duk performing in the intimate Gershwin Room to an unsurprisingly packed-out crowd.

$44,000 was raised through ticket sales, merch and donations, with Peking Duk and The Espy rounding the figure up to $50,000 which will be split equally among the RFA-NSW, RFA-QLD, CFA-VIC for ongoing fire support and the Royal Red Cross Fire appeal who provide much-needed relief.

“Our hearts break for the victims of these tragic bushfires,” Peking Duk said.

“When we woke up to see Falls Festival had been cancelled due to fire danger we wanted to help out in any way possible. Thank you to everyone that came down, bought a ticket, bought merch and donated cash on the night. 

“Mostly though, thank you to the firefighters and volunteers who risk their lives to fight fires and save lives, Australia is so lucky to have you.”

The Espy venue program manager Shaun Adams added: “Some Australians who are just trying go to work, spend time with their families & friends around this holiday time are facing challenges that most of us won't ever understand. 

“Sadden by our friends at Falls Festival having to make a tough decision of cancelling, we hope with Peking Duk to play some small part in supporting the many volunteers, support services that are on the frontline this fire season and thoughts for clearer skies soon.”

US singer and Falls headliner Halsey and UK artist YUNGBLUD also performed benefit shows last night, while WAAX, Teen Jesus & The Jean Teasers, Cry Club and Bakers Eddy will perform at Melbourne's Stay Gold tonight with half of the proceeds also going to the CFA.

For more details, head over to theGuide.