The Ministry For Fun and 4000 Records have announced the inaugural Coochiemudlo Island Festival - Brisbane's newest family friendly and COVID-safe festival, set to take place on Saturday 8 May 2021.
Just a short ferry ride from Victoria Point in the south-eastern Redlands area of Greater Brisbane, Coochiemudlo Island, or 'Coochie' as it's locally known, is a small, secluded island paradise. The enchanting Mudlo Gardens will set the stage for a host of Queensland born and bred talent in a stacked line-up.
Leading the bill is the "King of Chill" himself Bobby Alu, who along with co-headliners Chocolate Strings will bring waves of soul and roots to the island. Joining them are fellow locals Karl S. Williams, Adele & The Chandeliers, Ruby Gilbert, The Holy Rollercoasters and Red Belly Black, who will spice up the show with an assortment of blues, soul, folk, rock and all things groovy. Rounding out the line-up is Brisbane "surfgaze" quartet The Double Happiness, whose song 'Coochiemudlo' inspired the creation of the festival.
“As the world continues to battle COVID-19, we here on the island wanted to do our part to bring some joy to the local community. Some like-minded individuals and businesses formed The Ministry For Fun, and soon after we happened upon The Double Happiness’ 'Coochiemudlo' song. From there the idea to host a festival on the island was born," said Paul Rockach, Ministry For Fun spokesperson and festival organiser.
“Coochiemudlo Island Festival is our dream gig. We can’t wait to surf the ‘low waves’ of Coochiemudlo and make our song about the island an infectious ear worm for everyone who joins us,” said Meg Welchman of The Double Happiness. “Coochiemudlo’s vibe suits the world’s current slowed pace. Stopping to take it all in, less rush and less intensity. It’s an eccentric little island and a very likeable one.”
As well as live music, the festival will also include market stalls and entertaining activities such as face painting, a treasure hunt, artist demonstrations and more. It's fun for the whole family, and an affordable day out with adult tickets at $59 and free entry for children under 14.
In addition, the event will be globally livestreamed courtesy of Stageit, making it accessible for everyone. “The idea is that people based in South East Queensland can come along and celebrate life with us here on Coochiemudlo Island while also being able to share the experience (via the online stream) with their friends and loved ones who are based elsewhere," said Rockach. We want to send a smile and wave to as many people across the globe as possible.”
“Coochiemudlo Island Festival is a celebration of life and every aspect of the festival – from the line-up to the activities – was curated with happiness in mind.”
Tickets on sale now via Humanitix
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