July 22, 2021
The 2021 Gympie Music Muster has been cancelled.
The announcement that the 40th birthday celebration muster, due to be held from August 26-29, had been cancelled was made by organisers on Thursday.
It follows the COVID-forced cancellation of the event in 2020.
The annual music festival had promised to present more than 100 artists – including Lee Kernaghan, Beccy Cole, Adam Harvey, Kasey Chambers and Troy Casser-Daley – performing in five venues over four days.
“This decision has not been made lightly as our team has been working tirelessly and were ready to deliver a first-class festival, that you all know and love,” according to a statement issued to supporters.
“Many of our Muster family – ticket holders, artists, contractors, volunteers and vendors come from far and wide and we feel it is only fair that we notify all as soon as possible.
“Our COVID-19 plan was in place, however the risks involved in continuing with the festival this year are escalating daily.
“In the interest of the Gympie Music Muster’s long-term sustainability and our brand we have had to make the hard decision for all involved.
“Our 40th celebration was shaping up to be the best Muster ever.
“Ticket sales have exceeded all our expectations with a third of our patrons coming from interstate.
“Patrons’, sponsors’ and vendors’ funds are not ours until such time as we are able to deliver our event. Financially the event relies on unrestricted travel to and within Queensland for patrons, artists and suppliers.
“We are a not-for-profit organisation and the current situation and the uncertain future poses an unacceptable financial risk.
“Unless the event can be delivered with a full program and with unrestricted interstate attendance, we cannot deliver value for our patrons and guarantee payment to our suppliers.
“In the event of a late cancellation or any sudden lockdown we simply could not refund tickets and pay suppliers which would be financially catastrophic for the future of the event
“We assure you that we will be ready to host you as part of our Muster family in 2022 when the majority of Australians have been vaccinated and travel restrictions are relaxed.
“All our current ticket holders, will be offered the opportunity to transfer tickets to our next festival to be held August 25-28, 2022, or to receive a refund.
“By transferring your tickets, you are demonstrating your ongoing support for our iconic music and camping festival and guarantee that you are already set for the 2022 Muster at the 2021 price.”
