Link to...Travel, Leisure & Entertainment
Ability Fest back in Melbourne, launching in Brisbane
T
he accessible and inclusive Ability Fest music festival is back in Melbourne and making its debut in Brisbane, both in October. For the first time, Ability Fest will open to attendees aged 16 and over across both locations. “Ability Fest has been an incredible journey, and I'm thrilled to see its success growing year by year and that it is expanding to Brisbane for the first time this year as well as Melbourne,” disability advocate Dylan Alcott told Link. And he is keen for the festival that he founded becoming a national event. “We love the idea of taking it nationally, including Sydney. It's not just about bringing great music to more people it's about spreading awareness and celebrating disability inclusivity on a larger scale. Our whole country has vibrant communities everywhere and we want to take Ability Fest to as many people as possible.” As for how important the festival is to him, he said: “It's not just an event it's a platform where we can change perceptions and create opportunities for people of all abilities to come together, enjoy music, and feel
58
August/September 2024
included. It's about breaking down barriers and showing the world what people with disabilities can achieve when given the chance, but also that we deserve the choice to have fun and come to events like anybody else. So yeah, seeing it grow and potentially become a national event would be a dream come true,” he said.
celebration where everyone, regardless of ability, can have an extraordinary time,” Alcott said. “I’m particularly excited about the diverse and talented artists we have lined up this year, as their performances will undoubtedly bring a unique energy to Ability Fest, uniting our community and creating unforgettable moments.”
Ability Fest will feature a lineup across two stages in both cities. On the main stage, attendees will be Australian bands Ocean Alley, drill and rap group ONEFOUR, King Stingray, as well as Australian pop sensation Cub Sport, acclaimed DJ and producer jamesjamesjames, rising star Kita Alexander, American folk-pop singer Brenn, Floodlights, Asha Jefferies, Middle Kids, Eliza Hull, Jordz, and triple j Unearthed artist winners. The second stage, named Mark’s Stage, will host a diverse array of renowned DJs, including Australian creators of 'Shooting Stars', Bag Raiders, along with Jordan Brando, Crybaby, Wax'o Paradiso, Boone, Moss, DAWS, NayNay, Mikalah Watego, Neesha Alexander, Dewbs, Kuzco, Cheq, and Xeimma.
Queensland Minister for Tourism and Sport, Michael Healy said Ability Fest was a showcase of Queensland’s commitment to raising awareness of the importance of inclusive and accessible events in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. “Ability Fest is a must-attend music event for everyone, with affordable tickets and a range of accessible features including elevated ramps, viewing platforms and pathways, dedicated quiet zones, guide dog accessibility, and Auslan translators on stage.”
“Ability Fest is all about bringing people together through music, a
The Melbourne festival will be held at Alexandra Gardens on October 19, and at Victoria Park Brisbane on October 26. There is flat rate $60 ticket price plus booking fee, with complimentary admission for carers. Get tickets at: abilityfest.com.au.