Splendour in the grass 2022: artists and attendees
Muddy grounds haven’t stopped the music as splendour kicks off for day two. See all the action here.
Byron Shire
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A buzzing atmosphere has shone down on Byron Bay for Splendour in the Grass, as cloudy skies have partied ways to mark the great return of live music.
Although grounds remain soaked and muddy, queues are far shorter and a general sense of community can be felt, after a three year festival absence.
Artists and ticket holders alike are basking in the sunshine and joy, including youngsters.
Gold Coast dance pop band Ivey were among the thousands who slogged through the mud to enjoy the live music.
Producer Matt McGuffie said they are stoked to be back in the festival atmosphere.
“We had three festivals cancelled last year so it’s great to be back here,” Mr McGuffie said.
Having spend a couple years in the studio working on new music, they’ve just released a new single and will be keen to get back on stage.
Dirk Terrill from Lennox Head has brought his young kids Eddie and Sunny to Splendour and said it hasn’t diminished the experimenter at all, thanks to the Little Splendour activities.
“It’s good for them to be exposed to the real world,” Mr Terrill said.
A teacher at SAE audio and film school in Byron Bay, several of Terrill’s students are DJing at the festival.
Dirk Terrill from Lennox Head is having a great time with his little one at Little Splendour #SITG22pic.twitter.com/qBHXD1lDGN
— Matthew Gazy (@MattGazy) July 23, 2022
Splendour in the Grass restarted on Saturday with thousands of people re-entering the grounds, hoping for a better day.
Day one of the festival on Friday was symbolised by a muddy mess, with all live acts cancelled as Friday-ticket holders left disappointed.
On Friday, many artists took to local pubs and bars for free live acts – as thousands followed, with queues spilling outside venues.
But a statement from festival organisers posted to Facebook on Saturday morning confirmed the event would go ahead for day two.
“Day two is a go, the site is still weather affected, however don’t let it wash away your spirit,” the post read.
“ We’ve waited three long years for this and have worked so hard to bring you the show … be patient, be kind and be safe.”
Despite the wet, muddy conditions, queues have already been forming onsite at the festival, with punters keen to resume weekend festivities.
But those planning to catch an Uber to the festival can expect to pay a premium.
On Saturday morning, prices for a 22 minute Uber from the middle of Byron Bay to the festival’s hub in Yelgun were into the hundreds, with an XL Uber costing over $288.
On Friday night Ubers from Byron to nearby Kingscliff where YUNGBLUD was performing a makeshift set at the town’s pub cost over $400.
@.yungblud via instagram
— YUNGBLUD PL (@yungblud_pl) July 22, 2022
FREE GIG TONIGHT! what happens when a festival gets cancelled.we put on a fookin show. kingscliff veach hotel. tonight. im on at 9pm. first come.first in.doors 7pm.lets rage 🖤☠ï¸ðŸ–¤ pic.twitter.com/4EwAuM3yyg
Some were left desperately stranded at the muddy, cold venue – unable to afford an Uber back to their accommodation.
Those holding weekend passes will be able to enjoy live acts such as Jack Harlow, Glass Animals and The Strokes.
Jade and Ryan Davies travelled in their caravan with their two sons all the way from the UK.
The young family live in a caravan, and came prepared to tackle all forms of weather.
“We’ve been waiting since 2020 for this and we’re so happy to be here. We’ve come prepared,” Mr Davies said.
They believe the festival can provide a unique experience for those of all ages.
With pools of mud leftover, one hardworking man, AJ Bork, was spotted attempting to clear the sight, one suction at a time.
“If it doesn’t rain today I’m hoping things will go ahead as normal,” Mr Bork said.
Despite attempts to clear the mud, the grounds still remain saturated in mood, as Splendour warned patrons to come prepared.
Saturday’s weather forecast is looking more hopeful, the North Coast SES issued a statement predicting the east coast low to move away today, resulting in an expected 1-10mm for the rest of the weekend.
Others made the most of the muddy conditions – enjoying the festive atmosphere for what it was.
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