SXSW vs. SXSE - Pollstar News

As part of the Australian Capital Territory Oct. 15 elections, the ruling Labor Party claimed it would set up a music, film and tech event in Canberra that was similar to South By Southwest.

The Australian version was to be called South By Southeast. However, the Austin event’s NSW-based Australian, New Zealand and Hawaiian rep, Phil Tripp, has thrown a spanner in the works.

Tripp advised the party that SXSW has also trademarked in Australia possible variations as South by Southeast, North by Northwest, South by South by South and North by Northeast. “They are changing the name so there is no chance of misinterpreting any association,” Tripp told Pollstar, adding, “We didn’t have to threaten them as they quickly realised their mistake and rectified it with great grace.”

SXSW has been approached from five Australian state governments or their peak music associations to strike a strategic allegiance with the Austin event. “They’ve all been politely turned down.”

This year, 750 delegates from Down Under attended, with 47 acts out of 75 invited, showcasing. In 2002 when Tripp took over, there were 30 delegates and five acts performing.