Is the Big Red Bash worth it? Your questions answered

Planning to head out to the Big Red Bash? We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions to help make your experience memorable.

Danica Clayton

2 min read

July 6, 2023 - 7:04AM

The Big Red Bash has incredible views at sunrise and sunset. Picture: Matt Williams

QLD News

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The countdown to the Big Red Bash has officially started! Thousands of Queenslanders will make the trek to the Simpson Desert to see some of Australia’s biggest musical talents perform over three days next week. In honour of the late Tina Turner, attendees will attempt to break last year’s World Record of 4084 people dancing to Nutbush City Limits.

Planning to head out west this year? We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions to help make your experience memorable.

The Big Red Bash will include a tribute to Tina Turner this year. Picture: Supplied

What date is Big Red Bash 2023?

Bashville will start welcoming guests from Sunday, with the Big Red Bash 2023 officially kicking off at 12.15pm on Tuesday July 4. The event concludes on Thursday July 6.

Thousands of attendees broke the Nutbush World Record last year. Picture: Matt Williams

Is the Big Red Bash worth it?

As part of the Big Red Bash 10th anniversary celebrations, attendees will attempt to break two World Records: the largest human image of a country and the largest gathering of people dancing to Nutbush City Limits. If breaking records isn’t your thing you’re spoiled for choice with other activities: Helicopter rides, dunny door painting, beach volleyball, sunrise yoga, camel rides and of course, incredible music from some of Australia’s best musicians.

The views at the Big Red Bash are set to be incredible in 2023. Picture: Supplied

Do you need a 4WD to go to Big Red Bash?

If you’re looking to make the drive to the Big Red Bash we’ve got some good news: you don’t need a 4WD to get to the festival!

While the majority of attendees will be travelling in a caravan or campervan, if your vehicle can handle the Aussie desert you’ll be able to stay at Bashville, or commute from Birdsville. Toilets will be available on-site as well as food trucks and paid Wi-Fi in the plaza.

You will however need to bring your own water and you can take a shower for a small fee at Birdsville.

A new world record for the Largest Nutbush City Limits Dance was set at the Birdsville Big Red Bash outback music festival last year. Picture: Matt Williams

What bands are playing at the Big Red Bash in 2023?

An incredible 21 Australian artists will be performing at the Big Red Bash next week, with the final day including a tribute show for Tina Turner in the evening.

Tuesday: John Williamson, Troy Cassar-Daley, Pierce Brothers, The Waifs, Hoodoo Gurus and Furnace and the Fundamentals.

Wednesday: Jack Jones, The Chantoozies, Ross Wilson, Shane Howard, Kate Cebrano, The Angels and ICEHOUSE.

Thursday: Melanie Dyer, Caitlyn Shadbolt, Wendy Matthews, Grace Knight, Dragon, Pete Murray, Chocolate Starfish and Human Nature.

Attendees participate in sand dune sledding at the Big Red Bash. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

How far from Birdsville is the Big Red Bash?

Bashville is roughly 35km from Birdsville. Two service stations as well as a general store are available as well as emergency services. You can also take a guided tour around Birdsville however it is recommended to plan ahead to not miss any of the activities happening at Bashville.