Unwind where the music meets the sea at Queensland’s newest island music festival
Like The Beach Boys’ dreamy Kokomo, there’s one paradise locale soon to be on the tip of South East Queenslanders tongues thanks to the inaugural Coochiemudlo Island Festival, which arrives 8 May 2021.
A COVID-SAFE event set on the picturesque shores of Coochiemudlo Island, a short 8-minute ferry ride from the Brisbane mainland, punters are invited to leave the concrete jungle and their everyday worries behind and enter a well-kept secret island paradise.
A slower-paced, whimsical world awaits with a stacked line-up of Queensland talent taking to the stage. Leading the bill is the Gold Coast’s favourite son and the ultimate King of Chill – Bobby Alu. Serving up a slice of thumping soul, funk and reggae inspired hits are co-headliners Chocolate Strings, while the remarkable Karl S. Williams will be delivering his signature fusion of blues, roots, folk and Americana with a twist.
Fellow local loves Adele & The Chandeliers, Ruby Gilbert and The Holy Rollercoasters are also aboard, along with Brisbane surfgaze quartet, The Double Happiness, whose song Coochiemudlo inspired it all.
“Following the challenging year that was 2020, we here on the island wanted to do our part to bring some joy to the local community. Some like-minded individuals and businesses formed The Ministry For Fun, and soon after we happened upon The Double Happiness’ Coochiemudlo song. From there the idea to host a festival on the island was born,” said Ministry For Fun spokesperson and festival organiser, Paul Rockach.
Co-hosted by Brisbane record label 4000 Records, the inaugural Coochiemudlo Island Festival aims to lift spirits and celebrate the plethora of amazing experiences available right in our very own backyard. Featuring artisanal stalls as well as entertaining activities like face painting, a treasure hunt and artist demonstrations, there is something on offer for everyone at this family-friendly occasion.
“I love that this festival is a chance to bring happiness to everyone who comes to the island and for the community to share a small piece of their paradise home,” said 4000 Records’ John Russell.
“We’ve booked a broad live music line-up which I can’t wait to enjoy in the gorgeous surrounds of Mudlo Gardens. This will also be the first festival I can bring my infant daughter along to, so it will be super fun to have a boogie, go for a swim and relax with the whole family.”
Easily some of Coochiemudlo Island’s biggest fans, The Double Happiness are looking forward to returning to the idyllic isle to perform for audiences and explore.
“Coochiemudlo Island Festival is our dream gig. We can’t wait to surf the ‘low waves’ of Coochiemudlo and make our song about the island an infectious ear worm for everyone who joins us,” said The Double Happiness’ Meg Welchman.
An idyllic combination of sound, sand and sun, grab your friends and family – young and old – and join the Coochiemudlo Island Festival fun.
Coochiemudlo Island Festival takes place on Saturday, 8 May from 12.00 -9.30 PM at Mudlo Gardens, Coochiemudlo Island. *Limited number of $59 tickets on sale HERE. Visit the festival website for more information.
*Free entry for children under 14 years of age
