The future of the Esoteric Music Festival, scheduled for March 7-11 in the regional Victorian town of Donald, is in jeopardy as the local Buloke Shire Council seeks to deny its permit due to serious health and safety concerns. The festival’s previous permit lapsed last year, and a request for a new ten-year permit was submitted in September. However, the council, led by CEO Wayne O’Toole, has expressed reservations.
O’Toole stated that while they have worked with the festival’s organisers, the council is not convinced that adequate measures are in place to ensure the event’s safe operation. Citing a previous outbreak of shigellosis that affected many attendees, the council remains unsatisfied with the organisers’ responses to their requests for further information last October and December.
Legal advice has backed the council’s recommendation to refuse the permit application, which was largely influenced by feedback from local emergency services and health agencies. The council is anticipated to formalise this decision at an upcoming meeting.
Despite the ongoing permit issues, ticket sales are still active, raising concerns among buyers about the event’s viability. Even if a planning permit were granted, the festival would still need a Place of Public Entertainment Occupancy Permit, which may also face rejection based on similar health and safety issues.
The potential cancellation of the festival has elicited disappointment among organisers and local residents, as it impacts the community’s cultural event landscape. The council’s prioritisation of public health and safety signifies a cautious approach to large gatherings in light of past incidents.