- The Buloke Shire Council may refuse a permit renewal due to health and safety concerns.
- The festival, set to begin on March 17, has already sold out with 11,000 attendees.
- A final decision will be made in a council meeting on March 3.
The Esoteric Music Festival, a highly anticipated five-day event in Victoria’s west, is under threat of cancellation due to safety concerns raised by the Buloke Shire Council.
Despite selling out and having a history since 2017, the festival’s future now hinges on a council meeting set for March 3. Even if the planning permit is approved, a Place of Public Entertainment Occupancy Permit is still required, which could also face rejection.
Safety Issues Put Sold-Out Esoteric Festival at Risk of Cancellation
Buloke Shire Council has raised red flags over Esoteric Festival’s ability to ensure attendee safety, following last year’s health crisis that saw hundreds of festivalgoers fall ill. Requests for additional safety measures were deemed “insufficient,” leading to a recommendation to deny the festival’s permit renewal.
The council argues that despite ongoing discussions with organizers, key concerns remain unresolved, particularly regarding emergency response and public health risks. Even if a permit is granted, another safety approval is necessary, further complicating the festival’s fate.
Esoteric Festival, which has run successfully since 2017, attracts thousands of attendees and generates significant local economic activity. The potential shutdown not only impacts festival organizers but also vendors, local businesses, and the broader community relying on tourism revenue.
Meanwhile, festivalgoers have taken to social media to express frustration and uncertainty, with many calling for official updates. With ticket sales ongoing for 2025, concerns over refunds and future festival editions are growing.
With just a week left before its scheduled start, the Esoteric Music Festival faces an uncertain fate. While organizers attempt to address concerns, the council’s final decision will determine whether the event can proceed or if thousands of attendees will be left disappointed.
“Safety is not an option; it is a necessity.” – Anonymous
