12 Years Strong Airlie Beach Festival of Music Rocks On in Paradise

In a country where festivals are folding like deck chairs in a cyclone, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music continues to thrive, celebrating its 12th anniversary in the coming days.  With a line-up that’s bigger, bolder and louder than ever, this year’s event promises to be the ultimate mash-up of rock royalty, local legends and rising stars.
With over 50 acts across the five-day program, the festival proudly welcomes an incredible line-up featuring classic British rock legends ‘Sweet’, the iconic rock powerhouse ‘Rose Tattoo’, ‘80s favourites ‘Pseudo Echo’ and the much-anticipated return of ‘Southern Sons’. Whether you’re wanting to relive the golden years of music or discover fresh sounds, this year’s roster is a musical buffet serving up something for everyone, including the talented ‘Sandi Thom’, known for her hit single, 'I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker’.
The festival kicks off on Thursday 7th November, with an Opening Party at Magnums, a legendary local venue that sets the tone for the weekend.  From there the fun continues, with the Passport to Airlie national showcase finals on Friday 8th November, where nine up-and-coming acts from across Australia will compete under the big tent for a golden ticket to rock the main stage next year and cement their place in Aussie music history.  
It’s not just entertainment, it’s a journey and to further enhance the experience, gypsy rock duo, ‘Salt and Steel’ will be delivering a festival first, rocking their solar-powered motorhome and delivering stripped back acoustic tunes and artist chats in between main sets.  The legendary Fish D'Vine, a long-time staple of the Whitsunday food scene, will be bringing its iconic flavour to the festival with a vibrant eat street, serving up seafood delights and more for those who know good food is just as important as good vibes.  And to make sure everyone’s in on the action, accessibility features - crafted in partnership with Endeavour Foundation - ensure no one’s left out of the rhythm.  
The festival then takes off into high gear over the 9th and 10th November, bringing fan favourites to the stage including the dynamic ‘Reece Mastin’, the unstoppable ‘Ash Grunwald’ and powerhouse ‘Christine Anu’, plus a slew of other acts that are sure to keep the party rocking to sun down.  
“I’m so excited to finally experience Airlie Beach Festival of Music for the first time! I’ve heard incredible things about the energy and the crowd and performing with the ocean as my backdrop is going to be something special,” said Christine, she is ready to bring her signature energy and soulful sound to the festival.
The celebration doesn’t stop there and on Monday 11th November, the festival heads to Northerlies for the ultimate afterparty.  It’s where the festival’s spirit lives on and the ‘Matty Rogers Band’, ‘Bondi Cigars’ and a roster of local legends come together for one last jam.
The team have cracked the code to staying power - mixing a long weekend of music, magic and a bit of coastal mischief to create a festival that refuses to fade, no matter what the industry throws at it.  
Whether you’re up for a one-day escape or a three-day music marathon, there’s a ticket for every taste on sale now: www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

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The Airlie Beach Festival of Music main-stage boasts stunning Coral Sea views

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