Noise from Out 2 Lunch festival heard as far as Paradise Point

Thumping DJ sets from homegrown star Fisher’s double-header in the CBD have split Gold Coasters, with some losing it over the noise - and others urging a volume crank to hear it better.

Residents as far as Paradise Point are “losing it” over noise from the weekend’s Out 2 Lunch festival at Broadwater Parklands - but others say they wish it had been louder to hear it better.

Dance tracks and thumping DJ sets could be heard as far as 10km north of the two-night festival headlined by homegrown star Fisher attracting 20,000-plus fans each day.

It was moved from Coolangatta Beach to Southport on account of damage caused by ex-tropical cyclone Alfred.

Residents losing it over the sound blamed Gold Coast City Council for approving the noise volumes, but a spokesperson for the City says all conditions were complied with.

DJ Fisher announces the return of his Out 2 Lunch festival. Photo: Supplied

“The noise from the Broadwater Parklands is unacceptable, and I live in Musgrave Hill more than 3kms away,” one resident posted to a Facebook community page.

“All windows and doors are closed and it still sounds like my next door neighbour is having a party, wtf is wrong with council that decided that this is a good spot for outdoor concerts.”

But others who hadn’t shelled out for a ticket were loving it - not losing it.

One fan wrote: “I’m loving it - wish it was louder.”

Kylie Lisk wrote on social media: “I’m in Labrador off Olsen Ave. All I hear is doof doof. Dance along to it every now and then - and we have tomorrow as well. Just turn your TV up - watch the footy.”

The two day dance music festival headlined by Paul Fisher, better known by his stage name Fisher, had been hailed a huge success by attendees from day one with another bumper crowd pouring in on Sunday.

However some residents appalled by the noise claimed it must have exceeded maximum levels and could be heard as far as 5km inland at Olsen Ave, and all the way to Paradise Point.

“It’s really loud in Musgrave Park, somehow the wind carries the music here every time from reactions in other groups it seems to get all the way to Arundel,” the Musgrave Park resident said.

“We deserve to live in peace.”

While council said the sound travelled on account of the wind, residents insisted change was needed.

“I’m getting a migraine. It’s not music, it’s torture,” another resident wrote.

Other locals agreed, saying it was “definitely above permitted decibels”

People commenting on Gold Coast Bulletin’s Facebook page lapped up the hometown hero’s show. Kirsty Morone wrote: “Absolutely the best - amazing day.”

Allan Laws wrote: “It was awesome - loved it. Thanks Mr Fisher.”

A council spokesperson said city officers monitored the event, ensuring all conditions were complied with across the entirety of the weekend.

“The City worked closely with organisers in the lead up to this event,” they said.

DJ Fisher headlines two day Out 2 Lunch festival at Broadwater Parklands. Photo: Crystal Fox

“Officers monitored the event yesterday (Saturday) and all conditions were complied with including noise levels and a finish time of 10pm. Sound travelled north of the event due to wind conditions.

“We thank everyone for their patience and we will continue to monitor the event.”

The Southport resident who posted the complaint and claimed to have lodged one with council was slammed by others online, with many embracing the music and enjoying the gig at no cost.

“I’m at the end of Scarborough Street and it’s nice to know people are out having fun supporting our GC tourism and community,” one said.

Another said they were surprised they could hear it “so clearly” on McMillan Street, but weren’t complaining.

Another said residents across the area “better get used to it” if the new Gold Coast Arena at Carey Park, Southport is built.

Festival organisers TEG were contacted for comment.

Originally published as Noise from Out 2 Lunch festival heard as far as Paradise Point