Sunshine Coast Council reveals Caloundra Music Festival’s future

The Sunshine Coast Council has made the shock announcement regarding the long-term future of the much-loved beachside music festival.

Caloundra Music Festival, Queensland. Picture: instagram. https://www.instagram.com/caloundramusicfestival/?hl=en

The Sunshine Coast Council has officially revealed the Caloundra Music Festival will not be returning after a temporary hiatus to review the event’s funding model.

The council announced earlier this year the music festival, held in Kings Beach annually since 2007, would not be going ahead in 2024 as they reviewed the council’s future funding commitments to the event.

However, a further announcement on Tuesday revealed the council would no longer be funding the ‘variety festival’, revealing last years’ festival goers were now the “lucky last” to experience the event.

The Caloundra Music Festival has been permanently discontinued amid rising costs and reduce spending. Picture: Bruce Haggie

A council spokesman said after adopting the 2024-25 Budget last week it was decided the council would officially discontinue the music festival.

According to Sunshine Coast mayor Rosanna Natoli the festival had been hit with similar challenges that led to the cancellation of other major music events such as Splendour in the Grass and Groovin’ the Moo.

Caloundra Music Festival, Queensland. Picture: Instagram

“Rising costs, falling ticket sales and uncertainty in the music festival industry were felt to be too great a risk in the current climate,” Ms Natoli said.

“We recognise that music events are important for our community and council will continue to deliver smaller events and programs.”

Busby Marou perform at Caloundra Music Festival, Queensland. Picture: Instagram

Councillor Terry Landsberg said he encouraged the community to continue to support other festivals, local venues and Sunshine Coast artists, emphasising the importance of buying tickets early.

“I urge you to support other events, like the upcoming Big Pineapple Music Festival and Council’s 10-day multi-arts Horizon Festival which will be held May 2-11 next year, coinciding with the 2025 Labour Day Public Holiday,” Mr Landsberg said.

“I know the artists and patrons will be greatly disappointed and I encourage festival fans to support other festivals, venues and artists by purchasing tickets often and early.”

Originally published as Sunshine Coast Council reveals Caloundra Music Festival’s future