Overview
2024 is already set to be a huge year for Australia's most-inclusive music festival, after the Dylan Alcott-founded Ability Fest announced that it would not only play Melbourne but also hit up Brisbane as well. Mere days after revealing its expansion, the event has now dropped its lineup — and, with Ocean Alley, King Stingray, Cub Sport and Bag Raiders leading the bill, it too is massive.
Ability Fest will first head to Alexandra Gardens/Birrarung Marr in Melbourne on Saturday, October 19, then to Victoria Park/Barrambin in Brisbane on Saturday, October 26. The roster of talent varies slightly per state, but the aforementioned four acts will take to the stage in both cities. So will Asha Jefferies, Boone, Brenn!, Dewbs, Eliza Hull and jamesjamesjames, alongside Jordan Brando, Jordz, Kita Alexander and a triple j Unearthed winner.
From there, Melburnians will can catch ONEFOUR, Crybaby, DAWS, Floodlights, Kuzco, NayNay and Wax'o Paradiso. In Brisbane only, punters will see Middle Kids, Cheq, Eves Karydas, Mikalah Watego, Moss, Neesha Alexander and Xeimma. Across both locations, Ability Fest is splitting its musicians across two stages, one for bands and one for DJs.
The fully accessible event, which launched in 2018, has been carefully designed from the get-go. It features ramps and pathways for easy access, Auslan interpreters working alongside the artists, and elevated platforms to give everyone a shot at seeing the stage. Plus, there's also quiet zones, dedicated sensory areas and accessible toilets.
The Brisbane festival will cater to around 5000 people, and Ability Fest is committed to being financially accessible during the current cost-of-living crisis in both of its stops. Accordingly, tickets will only cost $60 plus booking fee, and carers will receive complimentary entry. The fest is also lowering the age of admission to 16 so more folks can head along.
While dishing up primo live tunes and music experiences to Aussies of all abilities, the not-for-profit fest also raises money for the Dylan Alcott Foundation, with 100-percent of its ticket proceeds going to the organisation.
Chloe Hall
"Ability Fest is all about bringing people together through music — a celebration where everyone, regardless of ability, can have an extraordinary time," said Alcott.
"I'm particularly excited about the diverse and talented artists we have lined up this year. Their performances will undoubtedly bring such a unique energy to Ability Fest, uniting our community and creating unforgettable moments."
Glenn Hunt
Ability Fest 2024 Lineup:
Brisbane and Melbourne:
Asha Jefferies
Bag Raiders
Boone
Brenn!
Cub Sport
Dewbs
Eliza Hull
jamesjamesjames
Jordan Brando
Jordz
King Stingray
Kita Alexander
Ocean Alley
triple j Unearthed winner
Melbourne only:
Crybaby
DAWS
Floodlights
Kuzco
NayNay
ONEFOUR
Wax'o Paradiso
Brisbane only:
Cheq
Eves Karydas
Middle Kids
Mikalah Watego
Moss
Neesha Alexander
Xeimma
Chloe Hall
Ability Fest 2024 Dates and Venues:
Saturday, October 19 — Alexandra Gardens/Birrarung Marr, Melbourne
Saturday, October 26 — Victoria Park/Barrambin, Brisbane
Chloe Hall
Ability Fest 2024 will hit Melbourne and Brisbane in October 2024. Pre-sale tickets will be available from 12pm AEST on Wednesday, July 10 (register online), with general tickets selling online from 12pm on Thursday, July 11. Head to the festival website for more details.
Top image: Chloe Hall.