The demise of Bluesfest reminds me of the felling of a big tree in the forest.
When a tree that’s nurtured a whole forest community eventually falls, it seems like the end of the world. But alas, the open canopy presents opportunities for life to renew.
Such is the case for music during the Easter long weekend.
In the absence of Bluesfest, live music sprang up everywhere across Byron Shire and beyond from Lennox, Eltham to Kingscliff. Visitors and locals all spoke of a very successful weekend.
Some people told me it was the best Bluesfest ever as they’ve been coming for decades but never really experienced Byron Bay, eaten at local restaurants or visited local pubs.
But just like the fallen tree in the forest, there’s only a small window of opportunity to fill the void.
For this long weekend of music to become an annual success (especially as Easter doesn’t always coincide with the school holidays) it will need some backing from government.
This could be in the form of a festival hub for volunteers (much like the red frogs during schoolies), employing a coordinator or maybe even a stage or two on Council land at Main Beach, Red Devils Park, Bangalow and/or Mullum Showground?
Our big weekend of music may continue despite Council, but wouldn’t it be great if everyone got behind making Easter blues in Byron an annual event?
This weekend showed that a blues and roots renewal is possible.
Simon Alderton, Byron Bay
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