Australasia News: Sydney Fest Increase Nixed; Record Attendance In Queensland; More Exposure For NZ Acts

AUSTRALIA
More Festivals Nixed At Centennial Park
A bid to increase concerts at Sydney’s Centennial Park was thwarted by neighbours.
The Australian Festivals Association proposed an increase of eight festivals a year to 12, arguing that Sydney “badly needed” space to hold major events of 20,000+ people.
Twelve months ago the New South Wales government lifted the cap at the 42,400-seat Allianz Stadium from four events a year to 20.
This time it bowed to park neighbours concerns of noise problems, trampled grass, anti-social behaviour and reduced property values.
AFA managing director Mitch Wilson called the decision “disappointing” and “hypocritical given its encouraging of large events.”
Perth Concert Hall Starting Upgrade Works
The 1,800-seat Perth Concert Hall will close from February to 2028 for extensive renovations at a cost of A$150.3 million ($92.4 million)
With some of the finest acoustics in the southern hemisphere, the 50-year old venue hosted Ray Charles, PJ Harvey, Nina Simone, Sting, kd lang, Birds of Tokyo, Eskimo Joe and Tim Minchin, as well as comedy, classical and talks.
Refurbishments include new rehearsal and events spaces, improved venue accessibility to the auditorium entry, updated seating, lighting, backstage facilities, forecourts and foyers.
Promoters Concerned As Victoria Police Up Charges
The live music sector expressed concern over Victoria Police’s increased security and patrol charges for the state’s 400 annual entertainment and sports events.
Starting Jan. 1, single-day music events are charged A$686 ($421.73) for planning. Officers charge up to A$233.50 ($143.54) each for the first hour and A$117.60 ($72. 29) for each half hour after.
For the first time, organisers and venues pay for use of police animals, cost of resources for uses as traffic control, drones and counter-drone technology.
Use of a helicopter sets back organisers A$10,217 ($6,281) an hour.
TEG Live and the Australian Festival Association argued it “would make events less financially viable and may lead to fewer events or higher ticket prices.”
Record Attendance For Stadiums Queensland
Stadiums Queensland’s nine venues drew a record 5.8 million patrons, it reported in its 2023-24 financial year report – reflecting “our commitment to providing outstanding experiences.” according to chair Cathy McGuane.
The venues contributed A$1.7 billion ($1.04 billion) to the Queensland economy and provided 7,012 full-time equivalent jobs directly.
Brisbane Entertainment Centre hosted 85 main arena performances. P!nk’s two sellouts at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville drew a venue record of 65,000.
It drew “approximately 20,000 visitors from outside Queensland and injecting A$39.8 million ($24.4 million) in GSP into the local economy,” the report said.
NEW ZEALAND
MMF Calls For Greater NZ Music Exposure
A new initiative Spotlight Aotearoa (NZ) by the Music Managers Forum Aotearoa wants greater use of New Zealand acts as support on international tours.
It would mean domestic acts get access to the same stage with high-quality sound and lighting, tour announcements, and all marketing.
MMF chair Cushla Aston explained, “By providing NZ artists with a platform to share the stage with global talent, we not only amplify their voices but also retain the economic and cultural benefits of live performances within Aotearoa.”
Recent visits by Thom Yorke, Coldplay, Travis Scott, Metallica and Hozier did not have a local artist in a support slot, the MMF noted, calling it “a missed opportunity.”
