Australia’s climate with Dance music events is a bit more tense than North America’s. While Dance music festivals and the U.S. Government are at least showing progress toward a common understanding about drug use and harm reduction, recent deaths at one of the world’s biggest festivals are having issues holding another event at its Australian iteration. Hardstyle festival Defqon.1 has been postponed indefinitely because of New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian’s call that the festival is canceled entirely. The driving force behind her statement revolved around the two drug-related deaths at last year’s event.
This call caused the Sydney International Regatta Centre to withdraw their support. Without another venue to book, the festival can’t hold it in its originally planned September date. Defqon.1 isn’t the only festival facing issues going forward; because of higher police fees, several festivals were canceled. Psyfari, a festival forced to cancel their 10th year this last February, called out the NSW government for their “war on festivals.” That name certainly suits the situation; 14 festival organizers are taking the government to court because of a list released by the government detailing festivals that were deemed “higher risk,” including Defqon.1, Transmission, and even Ultra and Rolling Loud.
Defqon took to Facebook today with a statement detailing their regret over the venue pulling their support:
“Defqon.1 Australia postponed indefinitely”
Warriors, it is with great sadness to inform you that Defqon.1 Festival will not return to Australia this year.
Unfortunately the Sydney International Regatta Centre and its affiliates have withdrawn their support for the event. Despite our best efforts, we have been unable to secure a suitable replacement venue for the event to take place this September.
To our fans, Ambassadors, and everyone else that has contributed to the incredible memories we created for the past 10 years: from the depths of our orange heart we would like to thank all of you for your ongoing support, dedication, and for creating the most epic family imaginable.
While we continue to look for a suitable alternative location that meets our quality standards, we remain uncertain if and when we return.
During this time, we welcome you to explore our events or hostings in of any of the 15 countries we are active in this year.
Forever one tribe,
Q-dance
Though the battle to find a new venue isn’t over, a bigger shift in the conversation may be required before Defquon can host an event in the NSW area.
Read the full statement on Facebook here.
Im crying for Australia and their people’s freedom right now