27 April 2009

Hospice fundraiser in Hamilton NZ

JACKIE CLARKE: Gearing up for Waikato fundraiser Gumboots and Blues.






Fill your boots with variety show to benefit Hospice


Variety shows are making a comeback if the popularity of a Waikato
fundraiser is anything to go by.


Hospice Waikato will benefit from a variety show next month (SUBS MAY)
called Gumboots and Blues, featuring top Kiwi performers Midge Marsden
and Jackie Clarke and compere Frankie Stevens.


Gumboots and Blues follows on from last year's hugely successful
Gumboots and Opera, which featured Dame Malvina Major and other acts.
More than 1000 people attended last year's show, raising $30,000 for
Hospice Waikato.


Gumboots and Blues directors Jill Rodgers and Steve Davis say
audiences still like a good variety show, and a recipe of
international, national and local talent is a popular mix.


"Decades ago, the music hall was a big part of local entertainment,"
says Jill who is involved in the local music scene. "Then came
variety shows like Peter Sinclair's Happen In through the 60s and 70s,
but these lost popularity in favour of one or two act shows."


Steve says local talent will feature alongside Clarke and Marsden,
including rising opera star Julia Booth, the Hamilton Blues Society
and the Hamilton Gospel Choir.


"The evening will also feature a disgracefully amateur performance of
the pantomime Cinderella, featuring our star performers, and is
carefully designed to make the other acts look good," says Steve, who
has been staging these types of shows since the Ruakura Research
Centre Revues of the 80s.


Proceeds from Gumboots and Blues will help Hospice Waikato complete
its new site in Hillcrest. Hospice Waikato is a charitable trust
founded in 1981, which provides specialised care for people with
terminal illness.


The fundraising show Gumboots and Blues takes the stage at 7.30pm on
Saturday May 23 at Hamilton's Founders Theatre. Tickets are available
from TicketDirect.



MIDGE MARSDEN: The Raglan blues musician takes to the stage on May 23
for Gumboots and Blues.






24 April 2009

Fwd: Alex Dixon's "Rising From The Bushes" CD available 4/28/09!




DLM LogoDixon Landing Music, LLC
PRESS RELEASE
April 23, 2009
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Melissa Dixon
Dixon Landing Music, LLC
(818) 426-5438
We're "Rising From The Bushes"...are you? New CD Release coming out of the Dixon catalog on 4/28/09!
What do you get when you combine a blues legend's legacy with amazing keyboarding skills, a vocalist with chart toppers in the UK, a drummer who has played on over 300 gold records, a bassist who is known for the funky grooves in his bass lines, a guitarist that can rival the best of them, and another vocalist who can belt out a gritty sound on one tune and then change it up to a more relaxing soulful groove? You get the new CD "Rising From The Bushes" by The Alex Dixon Band, of course! This is the most anticipated album to come out of the Dixon catalog since his grandfather's 1970 classic "I Am The Blues", and will be available April 28th on iTunes, Rhapsody, Amazon and in Best Buy!
###
"One of the hottest tracks on the disc is a cover of one of grandpa's songs - Down In The Bottom. This one flat out smokes and everyone is totally jammin' throughout. The discs best guitar, piano and rhythm work can all be heard right here. "
Rising From The Bushes Cover

LOS ANGELES, CA - April 23, 2009 - We wanted to say thank you to all of the radio stations worldwide that have been supporting The Alex Dixon Band's new CD "Rising From The Bushes"! We know that you have a choice from the 1000's of bands that contact you on a daily basis, and appreciate the airplay and exposure that you are providing for us.
If for some reason you have not yet received your copy of "Rising From The Bushes", please contact us and we would be happy to get a copy out to you ASAP!
Thanks again!

Alex Dixon Willie Dixon
By the way....today is Alex Dixon's birthday! HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALEX!!!!!
Distributed By Bug Digital
Bug Digital
Administered By Bug Music
Bug Music
Dixon Landing Music, LLC
1413-1/2 W. Kenneth Rd., Suite 191
Glendale, CA 91201
# # #
Copyright © 2009 Dixon Landing Music, LLC

23 April 2009

FREE Double Pass - Darcy Perry Blues Band - Saturday, 8pm

Kia ora Whanau,

On Saturday the 25th of April there will be a fundraising concert for Ava Meehan as part of the Cambridge Autumn festival. The concert features Darcy Perry Blues Band and $10 from every ticket sold will go towards Ava's appeal. Tickets are available from the Cambridge Information Centre or from Ticket Direct.

Being a generous man he is, Darcy Perry has given me a few double passes to give away. To win these double passes all you have to do is tell me the names of my two radio shows that I host each Wednesday from 9pm on Community Radio Hamilton, here's clue number one click here, and here's clue number two click here.

Send me the names of my two shows and you're in the running, simple as that.

Winners will be notified first thing Friday morning if not tonight.

Oh yeah and don't just thing Blues - think Blues, Soul, Funk and a great night out!

Good luck!

--
Regards,
Nate Taiapa
--
Community Radio Hamilton
Attn: Nate Taiapa
PO Box 110
Hamilton
New Zealand
--
Look, listen and learn about The Blues Room
http://www.communityradio.co.nz/index.asp?PageID=2145835508

22 April 2009

NZ Blues Directory

http://www.blues.co.nz/directory/

Ruf Records = Big Daddy Wilson : Love Is The Key

Big Daddy Wilson : Love Is The Key

Big Daddy Wilson is an American singer and songwriter who found his
home in northern Germany. When he came over from the U.S. there was no
blues in his baggage. He initially discovered the blues here in
Germany which is where he will begin his international career.
For «Love Is The Key« he recorded his own songs exclusively with a
small band; taking it back to the roots, often reduced to acoustic
instruments, but always full of soul. His good friend Eric Bibb guests
on two songs about Wilson's roots :«Country Boy« and «Walk A Mile In
My Shoes«. He's very proud of Bibb´s presence because «I've learnt so
much from him,« says Wilson.
The fruits of this learning can be tasted on Big Daddy's imminent European Tour.

www.bigdaddywilsonb.de

April 2009
25.04.09 Ahrensburg / Rossa
30.04.09 Kempten / Jazzfrühling, Big Daddy & Blues Company

Mai 2009
02.05.09 Ungarn-Budapest / Festival,Big Daddy Wilson & Ripoff
03.05.09 Ungarn-Budapest / Festival,Big Daddy Wilson & Ripoff
05.05.09 Luxemburg / Línui
06.05.09 Luxemburg / Línui
07.05.09 Luxemburg / Línui
08.05.09 Leinzell / Cafe Leinmüller
15.05.09 Bevern / Schloss Bevern
20.05.09 Lüdinghausen / Ricordo
22.05.09 Dresden / Festival tbc
23.05.09 Forst / Manitu Liveclub , mit Jochen
29.05.09 Bremen-Vegesack / Haven Höövt
31.05.09 Hohwacht / Seaside Lounge mit Dave Goodman

Juni 2009
06.06.09 Gladbeck / tba
11.06.09 Belm / Gaststätte Lecon
27.06.09 Neupetersheim / Gut Geisendorf

Juli 2009
26.07.09 Saarbrücken
31.07.09 Grand Jam/ Bergkamen

August 2009
01.08.09 Grand Jam / Georgsmarinenhütte / Waldbühne
14.08.09 Homburg /Musiksommer
21.08.09 Laubach / Bluesfestival Blues, Schmus & Apfelmus

September 2009
05.09.09 Bremen / Haus am Walde
11.+12.09.09 Litauen / tba mit Ripoff

Oktober 2009
02.10.09 Tungendorf/Neumünster ( duo) / Volkshaus
03.10.09 FIN Jyväskylä / Hotel Jyväshovi

On tour

________________________________

Oli Brown (Switzerland, Germany, Finland, Norway, Poland)
Dani Wilde (Austria, Germany)
Friend 'n Fellow (Austria, Germany, France, Sweden)
Erja Lyytinen (Austria, Switzerland, Germany, France, Finland, Norway, Poland)
Joanne Shaw Taylor (Austria, Switzerland, Germany, France, Finland,
Norway, Poland)
Wentus Blues Band (Finland, Italy, Norway, Sweden)


Unsubscribe

________________________________

At any time, you can unsubscribe from the mailing list on our website:
www.rufrecords.de/newsletter/index.html.

Imprint / Contact

________________________________

Ruf Records GmbH Ludwig-Wagner-Str. 31A D-37318 Lindewerra
Phone +49 (0)36087-92200 Fax +49 (0)36087-92211 ruf@rufrecords.de
www.rufrecords.de

17 April 2009

Christina Crofts CD LAUNCH

Just a reminder about Christina Crofts CD Launch this Saturday 18th April - The
Lewisham Hotel - 794 Parramatta Road, Lewisham.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Christina Crofts www.myspace.com/christinacrofts

Black and Tan News / April 16, 2009


W E B S I T E
At the Black and Tan site you can find all this information plus lots
of other and interesting stuff (pictures, links, opinions). The
content is updated almost daily.
http://www.black-and-tan.com

B O O B O O D A V I S
http://www.booboodavis.com
http://www.myspace.com/booboodavis

quotes from the review of the latest CD in SING OUT (USA):
"This unique, bass-Iess project is his best to date. Accompanied
solely by the solid, deeply rhythmic drum and percussion work of John
Gerritse as weil as Jan Mittendorp's big-toned guitar playing, Davis
delivers spirited, rough-edged vocals ……..Modern-day Mississippi blues
at its finest."
read the complete review at the Black and Tan site at March 30
http://www.black-and-tan.com

In two weeks time Boo Boo will start his first Europen tour of 2009.
This year we will also be on the road in July and again in October /
November. If we play anywere near your home don't hesitate to come by
and check us out live (and of course shake hands and drink a beer or
three). Here are the dates from the Spring tour:

April 30, Offenburg (D), 361 Grad @ Spitalkeller
May 1, Hard (A), Kammgarn Kulturwerkstatt
May 2, Stuttgart (D), Merlin
May 3, Hurdegaryp (NL), Blues & Americana @ de Schalmei
May 7, Hasselt (B), Muziek-O-Droom
May 9, Kwadendamme (NL), Bluesfestival
May 10, Roermond (NL), Café de Weegbrug
May 14, Tampere (SF), Down Home Kivi
May 15, Rauma (SF), Hovi Bar Club
May 16, Helsinki (SF), Juttutupa Club
May 20, Winterswijk (NL), SATC @ Café de Sprong
May 22, Uden (NL), Razzoo
May 23, Lézardrieux (F), Trieux Tonic Blues
May 24, Ruppichteroth–Bröleck (D), Kornbrennerei
May 25, Ingolstadt (D), Bluesfest @ Neue Welt
May 27, Kandern (D), ChaBah
May 28, Wil (CH), Gare de Lion
May 29, Olten (CH), Querbeatz @ Lichtspiele
May 30, Thun (CH), Café Mokka
May 31, Fürth (D), New Orleans Festival
June 1, Wiesbaden (D), Walhalla Studio
June 3, Ensisheim (F), Caf' Conc'
June 5, Weite (CH), Blues Crew @ Rest Hirschen
June 6, Feuerthalen (CH), Dolder 2
June 7, Saarbrucken (D), Sonntags am Schloß

D O U G M A C L E O D
http://www.doug-macleod.com
http:///www.myspace.com/dougmacleod

quote form the review of Doug's DVD in DIRTY LINEN (USA):
"Doug MacLeod has been more privileged than most bluesmen in the sense
that he has been lucky enough to learn his trade alongside some of the
best, including Charles Brown, Big Joe Turner, Eddie "Cleanhead"
Vinson, and Pee Wee Crayton. That kind of groundwork has undoubtedly
contributed to making MacLeod such a convincing artist whose body of
work deserves attention."
read the complete review at the Black and Tan site at April 2
http://www.black-and-tan.com

Doug has added some more songs to his MySpace profile. Check em out !!

Just returned from the UK, where he performed at the famous BURNLEY
BLUES FESTIVAL, Doug is already back on the road in the US. You can
see and hear him live on / at:

April 17, Kansas City MO (USA), BB's Lawnside and BBQ
April 19 (afternoon), Webster Grove MO (USA) Music Folk (workshop)
April 19 (evening), St Louis MO (USA), BB's Jazz, Blues & Soups
April 20, LaSalle IL (USA), Uptown Grill
April 21, Cleveland OH (USA), Wilberts
April 22, Lexington KY (USA), Philips' HouseConcert
April 23, Wilkesboro NC (USA), MerleFest
April 24, Wilkesboro NC (USA), MerleFest
April 25, Wilkesboro NC (USA), MerleFest
April 26, Wilkesboro NC (USA), MerleFest
** April 30, Lewisburg WV (USA), Charleston Blues Society @ Lewis
Theater (7:30 pm)
May 1, Charleston WV (USA), Charleston Blues Society @ Unitarian
Fellowship (7:30 pm)
May 2, Virginia Beach VA (USA), Tidewater Friends of Folk
May 7, Memphis TN (USA), 2009 BLUES MUSIC AWARDS
May 8, Harrison AR (USA), Buffalo River Concerts @ Seville Hotel

C R U S H E R S 2
http://www.myspace.com/crushers2

They don't rehearse and have no set list. They have been invited by
the management of TRANS SIBERIAN TRAINS to perform in several cities
along the tracks of this historic line. And one of their tracks will
be used in a nation wide tv campaign promoting safe sex in Urugay

Y O U C A N H E L P
All suggestions on how the spread this great music of all these great
artists (to as many people as possible) are always very welcome. Also
leads on possible places for Black and Tan artists to perform are
always welcome. Please send me the name, city and any other
information that you have regarding the venue.


U N S U B S C R I B E
It is my intention to send this informaiton only to people that are
interested in hearing/reading it. If that isn't the case just send me
a mail and I will immediately remove you form the list.


*********************************************************
KEEPING LIVING MUSIC ALIVE
http://www.crossroads.nl
http://www.black-and-tan.com
************************************************************

MASSIVE MILESTONE CELEBRATION - BLUESFEST 2009 WRAPS UP ITS 20TH BIRTHDAY WITH 85,000 FANS!

Massive milestone celebration!
Bluesfest 2009 wraps up its 20th Birthday with the world's finest
musicians and 85,000 fans

April 14th 2009 – Last night in Byron Bay, five incredible days of
blues and roots music from all over Australia and the world drew to a
close at Belongil Fields, capping off a 20th Anniversary birthday
party of infectiously good music and signature Bluesfest spirit.

In ticketing terms, it's up there with the most successful Bluesfest
events of recent years, with approximately 85,000 fans from a total of
25 countries and states & territories of Australia walking through the
entry gates over five days of blues, rock and roll, alt-country,
world, soul, reggae, funk, Latino and roots music.

Turning water into wine
The rain came down but could not keep people away – and over five days
of intermittent showers and rainfall, spirits remained high, while
gumboots were sold in huge numbers out of practically every driveway
and service station in and out of Byron Bay. By Monday night, up to
85,000 thirsty souls had even finished off the ale, rendering
Bluesfest 'the festival with no beer!' Fortunately, plenty of water,
wine and spirits remained on hand!

Festival Director Peter Noble said, "If you wore designer shoes this
year, the weather may have claimed them inside 30 minutes! But people
here are absolutely beaming and having the time of their lives. It's
incredible we've had such a great turnout during an economic downturn,
and in fact, 3 or 4 stores in Byron Bay said they've had their biggest
shopping days ever, so it's a big win for the business community here
too.

"Musically, this could very easily be the best Bluesfest we've had
yet, but all I can say is it's going to be incredibly hard to top this
next year for our 21st anniversary Bluesfest!"

Christmas at Easter
It was a second Christmas that came at Easter this year to Byron Shire
businesses at a time when most of country is talking about recession
hardships. NSW Events revealed that Bluesfest 2008 brought in more
than $13.5 million business revenue to the state, mostly going into
the Northern NSW and Byron Shire region. And with the success of
Bluesfest 2009's 20th anniversary – this figure looks like it will be
beaten.

Fortunately, Police have reported a very low level of incidents
concerning patron behaviour in and around the event, saying there is
much good will and a prevalent responsible attitude at Bluesfest 2009.

Celebrity spotting
Several well known identities were seen enjoying the fabulous music on
offer across six stages at Bluesfest this year, including Coldplay
front man Chris Martin who was spotted feeding his young daughter
yogurt seemingly unnoticed by the crowd! Other celebrities at
Bluesfest 2009 included regular attendee George Negus, actress Laura
Dern (who is married to Ben Harper) and actor Matthew McConaughey.

Australia's favourite 'anti-pop festival'
Festival Director Peter Noble said, "The greatest thing about
Bluesfest is actually our audience which sets us apart. We tell people
to bring their dreadlocks, their Barrack Obama t/shirts and their
green awareness to what was recently described as Australia's
favourite 'anti-pop festival' by the media. You can be a part of the
revolution alright, but don't forget to dance, because you will be by
nightfall!"

September 2008 saw Bluesfest recognised as an international winner in
The Greener Festival awards, for the second year running, for its long
term commitment to environmental and sustainability practices. For
example, this year at Bluesfest more than 3,000 litres of "waste" will
go to local farmers for use in compost.

Peter Noble continued, "It's a genuinely aware, globally united,
anti-mainstream spirit and attitude – the musicians who play here get
it – and the audience definitely gets it. Artists tell us all the time
they love playing at Bluesfest. First Byron is a special place, second
they love the level of sound production we offer, and third – they say
our audience is among the most receptive in the world! Bluesfest is at
heart a family event. We strive to be inclusive of everyone while
remaining a festival that holds no more than 18,000 people per day
(much less than most of Australia's big festivals). That's why we
celebrate a diversity of cultures, ethnicity, musical spirit and
genres. This is the lifeblood of Bluesfest, and everything we stand
for."

Speaking about his 1997 breakthrough to the world stage via Bluesfest,
Ben Harper said in a recent Kathy McCabe Daily Telegraph interview,
"It is the most important festival in my life. It's as much about the
people who make the Byron Bay festival as it is about the music on
stage."

Musical high points from Bluesfest 2009
Peter Noble said, "There are just too many music highpoints to mention
everybody! John Butler performed fantastically – which was
particularly poignant as it signified the final performance of his
current band. Ruthie Foster thrilled audiences with her soul powered
folk and blues winning ever more praise. The Blind Boys of Alabama
were jaw-droppingly great, and went over better than ever. Ben
Harper's new band BEN HARPER and RELENTLESS7 debuted to Australian
audiences by rocking so hard it scared me, but then he knew just when
to switch gears like a true artist. I was lucky enough to grow up with
Marvin Gaye and Bob Marley – well, let me say that Ben Harper is one
of the absolute greats of this generation, and he proved it again at
Bluesfest 2009.

"Tim Finn was astoundingly good and his voice was wonderful – such a
reminder of how many of those great classic songs came from his pen.
Blues Traveler was one of the best live bands I've ever seen, I can't
believe they've never been here before. Eric Bibb I had to see twice
he was so good, he's now risen to the level of a major blues artist.
Paul Kelly has never gone over so well at Bluesfest underscoring his
deserved status as quite probably Australia's finest songwriter.
Terrance Simien played an amazing Zydeco set and even brought his 2008
Grammy award with him and told the crowd, 'Australia I brought this
home for you!'" (Note: Terrance Simien won the first ever Zydeco
Grammy in 2008 with an album released on Peter Noble's AIM record
label – making it Australia's first ever Grammy for an independent
Australian release.)

Other highlights included blues beatnik Seasick Steve who was in
wonderful form, Saltwater Band which featured the otherworldly voice
of Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu, simply wowed about 10,000 people –
this from a band that's used to playing to 300 or 400. Lucinda
Williams rocked the house proving she's much more than an alt-country
artist these days. While Kasey Chambers & Shane Nicholson won hearts
yet again for being such quality songwriters and performers, audiences
also got to witness a genuine soul legend in Booker T and the DBTs
(Drive-By Truckers who also played a hugely popular set). AYO - a
captivating star of the future – put Bluesfest audiences into an
irresistible groove for the second time with her soul, reggae fusion.
New soul sensation James Hunter caused a big stir with his silky and
rich set of vocal chords and compelling stage show. Toni Childs proved
extremely popular, and will certainly need a bigger stage next time
around at Bluesfest, while Missy Higgins, Jason Mraz and Michael
Franti & Spearhead delivered impeccable sets drawing big crowds in a
festival lineup that just kept giving.

New comers and big buzz makers
And speaking of stars of the future, one young band called Carney has
been generating a major buzz all around the festival for their brand
of dynamic blues rock – with many of the stage crew saying they're the
band of the festival, and look like being major stars within months –
so watch this space!

The new InDIG stage at Bluesfest stage (in partnership with Events
NSW), which showcases the country's Australian and Southern Pacific
Rim Indigenous heritage, has proved to be a massive hit and will be a
permanent fixture at Bluesfest from here on in. Peter Noble said, "The
InDIG stage and tent could have been twice as big, that's how many
people it drew." InDIG highlights included fantastic sets from
Christine Anu, Archie Roach & Ruby Hunter, Dan Sultan, and Te Vaka.

Other notable newcomer artists included Grace Woodroofe and Tom Freund
(both chosen to play by Ben Harper), one of Australia's Best Latino
outfits Nu Yorican Nights, the Gold Coast's Tijuana Cartel, and the
truly fantastic Son Veneno. Watermelon Slim & The Workers proved to be
a major treat for blues fans, while Tim Churchill scooped the major
award in "Busking Over Byron", the Bluesfest busking competition which
sees him winning $2,000 worth of time at Studios 301, and newfound
status as clearly an emerging new artist on the blues and roots scene.

Fittingly, for its 20th birthday anniversary event, Bluesfest 2009
represents the first time that Director Peter Noble has presented the
event as its sole owner. Council approvals permitting, the Bluesfest
team now looks very much forward to staging their 21st festival in
Easter 2010 at its new home on land bought at the Tyagarah Tea Tree
Farm – 10 mins north of Byron Bay.

It will be an even greener, even more positive and even more
culturally and environmentally aware festival, so see you next year
for the 21st anniversary event!

For more information, please visit: www.bluesfest.com.au


12 April 2009

PLAYLIST: The Blues Room (NZ) 8 April 09

The Blues Room
Community Radio Hamilton, NZ
Wednesday 9pm to 10pm
AM1206 & FM106.7
And LIVE online www.communityradio.co.nz

8 April 2009

Johnny Croot Interview

In this episode you'll hear new music from three artists: Johnny
Croot, Nicole Hart and Alex Dixon Band ... ok, make that four artists,
you'll hear a song from Seasick Steve too!

Johnny Croot knew I was playing his new music on the show so he was
listening in, good thing he was because he was able to phone in and
talk a while about his new album, "Do You Fear Me." find out more
about it at: http://www.ourstage.com/fanclub/johnnycrootandfriends AND
http://www.myspace.com/johnnycrootandfriends

As well new music from Nicole Hart, a sweet sweet woman who has a
wonderful voice and a kind heart to go. She sent me some station IDs,
nice one Nicole! http://www.myspace.com/nicolehartband

And the much anticipated new music from Alex Dixon's new album,
"Rising From the Bushes" gets a spin too.
http://www.dixonlandingmusic.com/artists/alex-dixon/

1. Johnny Croot and Friends : Big Time Loser [NZ]
2. Johnny Croot and Friends : Cold Wind A Blowing [NZ]
3. Seasick Steve : Thunderbird
4. Johnny Croot Interview
5. Nicole Hart : Heart Trouble
6. Nicole Hart : Treasure
7. Booker T and The MGs : Time Is Tight
8. Alex Dixon Band : Paint You A Picture
9. Alex Dixon Band : Spoonful
10. Ronnie Earl and Friends : Little Angel

For more info about the East Coast Blues and Roots Music Festival
aka Byron Bay BluesFest visit:
http://www.bluesfest.com.au

7 April 2009

Bluesfest 2009 - News Update - Essential Reading


No images? Click here

Dear Nate,

It's Bluesfest time, welcome everybody.

Please enjoy and remember, we are an aware event - recycling and having compassion for Byron residents by celebrating appropriately when you return to your accommodation is a big part of the reason our town supports the festival - please help to keep it that way.

We have been fortunate that the rain that devastated Coffs Harbour and back of the Sunshine Coast last week has not been near as torrential in Byron. We have received moderate rain over the past week, however it is fine today, and the forecast is for sunny days with typical north coast showers now and over Bluesfest.

The festival site is in very good condition. For those camping - the ground may not have fully dried out by the festival - please bring appropriate ground cover - and if you can set up your camping so you do not lay on the ground, it is a very good idea. The car park has received the worst of the rain, and we may not be able to sell much parking at the fest, as those who have already bought parking tickets will receive priority.

You should strongly consider using our bus shuttles - they work brilliantly.

Have a great festival,

Peter Noble, Festival director.

...

The Bluesfest team wish to remind you that should you still wish to drive there will be parking in Byron Industrial Estate. This is approximately 15 minute walk from the Bluesfest. During last year's Splendour in the Grass festival at Belongil Fields a gang of thieves targeted cars parked in the Byron Industrial Estate and stole items from cars by smashing windows. Do not leave anything in view in your car. Our security will patrol this area but we cannot guarantee the security of your vehicle.

The fantastic indigenous band BANAWURUN has just been added to the Bluesfest InDIG Stage on Sunday night.

Times

The Bluesfest Ticket Sales Box opens at 10am daily. You can pick up your pre-paid tickets from the Pre-Paid Pick-Up window in the Ticket Sales Box. We will be wrist banding at the Ticket Sales Box from 10am Thursday and Friday.

Day Gates Open Gates Close
Thursday 9th 2pm Midnight
Friday 10th 11am Midnight
Saturday 11th 11am Midnight
Sunday 12th 11am Midnight
Monday 13th 11am Midnight

Festival Entry

There are two entrances to the festival at Belongil Fields. The main entrance is easily accessible from Ewingsdale Road and is also the drop-off point for the shuttle buses that will be operating during the festival. The Melaleuca Drive entrance should be used by those wanting to use the parking facility. There is a Ticket Sales Box at both entrances to the festival.


Age

Bluesfest is a 15+ event. All patrons wishing to purchase beverages from the bars must show photo ID (valid passport, drivers licence or proof of age card). Ticketed patrons under 15 are welcome but must be accompanied by a Responsible Adult at all times.

Wristbands

Upon entry you will be fitted with a wristband representative of your ticket type and age. Take good care of your wristband. It is not transferable and once it is removed it becomes invalid. You will be required to present your wristband to security upon request.

Please Note: We will be wrist banding on site from 10am Thursday and Friday from the Ticket Sales Box.

Passouts

As Bluesfest is a 5 day event, you are welcome to come in and out of the festival. Your wristband acts as your pass out.

Shuttle bus

Blanch's Bus Company will be running buses from Ballina, Lennox Head, Suffolk Park, Sunrise Beach & Mullumbimby. Ph: 02 6686 2144 or visit www.blanchs.com.au. Brunswick Valley Coaches will be running buses from Ocean Shores, New Brighton and Brunswick Heads. Ph: 02 6680 1566 or visit www.brunswickvalleycoaches.com.au. Price is $3.

Share & Ride To Bluesfest

Take our shuttle bus and not your car. The service is excellent at all times and will get you to Bluesfest and back again to Byron Bay and Suffolk Park areas faster as well as cheaper than your car will. You will help everybody by keeping traffic movements to a minimum.

A continuous regular shuttle bus service will operate back and forth between the festival front gates, the bus stop in front of the Byron Bay Tourist Centre and Suffolk Park. You will find the bus service is fantastic and delivers you almost to the festival front gates - and even at peak times it should take no longer than 20 minutes to get to your home in Byron Bay. Phone Blanch's on 02 6686 2144 or visit www.blanchs.com.au.

Parking

The patron car park is accessible from Melaleuca Drive:

Temporary "No Stopping" signs will be installed in Ewingsdale Road in front of the site
Please DO NOT park in the Sunrise Residential area
Council Parking Rangers will be on patrol throughout the weekend
Please do bot leave your valuables in the car

Disable Persons Pick Up/Drop Off

There will be a drop off area for disabled persons adjacent to the front festival gate. An area of the Day Parking Area will be set aside for disabled parking. Please call the Bluesfest Hotline (02) 6685 7920 to clarify these arrangements.

Traffic Changes

After working closely with Byron Shire Council and Byron Bay Police, our consultants have formulated a traffic management plan to manage and minimise traffic in proximity to the Bluefest site at Belongil Fields, Ewingsdale Road to Byron Bay. The following changes will take place from Wednesday 8th April through to Tuesday 14th April 2009.

Temporary Sheltered Right Turn Intersections will be constructed at Ewingsdale Rd/Belongil Fields main entrance and Ewingsdale Rd/Melaleuca Drive. They have been designed to assist the steady flow of traffic and will be managed by RTA accredited traffic controllers. However, please be prepared for a possible delay.

Temporary Pedestrian Crossing

For all those wanting to walk across Ewingsdale Road, please use the PEDESTRIAN CROSSING we have set up near the Belongil Fields entrance. Traffic controllers will ensure the safest and most efficient passage for both vehicles and pedestrians.

Camping

Camping is not allowed in the Melaleuca Drive Day Parking Area or on local beaches, parks or roadside. Camping is only allowed in official campgrounds. Please observe regulations or you risk being fined.

Please do not leave valuables in your tent. Lock them securely in the boot of your car out of sight. We have both Camp Marshalls and security patrolling the area. Should you see anyone in your camp area who is not wearing a camp wristband please report them to a Camp Marshall or security guard.

Exit

Please respect the local residents, the environment and our town when leaving the festival.


Bring with you

Your ticket (e-ticket or normal ticket).
Photo I.D
Enough cash to get you through the day (there will be 5 ATM's on site).
Protection from the elements (hat, sunscreen, raincoat, something warm for when it gets dark, gumboots are a great idea when it has been raining)

Leave at home

Alcohol
Illicit substances - Drug Detection Dogs will be present at the festival
Unsealed bottles
Glass
Professionals cameras
Video or audio recorders
Umbrellas
Animals

Bars

There are 3 bars and 1 VIP bar at Bluesfest serving a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. A bar ticket system will be operating. You will need to purchase drink tickets and exchange them for drinks at the bar. Water is available from the bar as well as at water refill sites around the festival.

Bluesfest promotes responsible consumption of alcohol. Please be aware to drink responsibly. Be wise and take a bus to and from the festival. Please respect the good order of the neighbourhood and minimise noise when coming to and leaving the festival.

Smoking areas

As a result of smoking laws in NSW, cigarettes will not be sold inside the festival and you must refrain from smoking inside the tents. Please dispose of your cigarette butts thoroughly in the bins provided or pick up your free 'Bin You Butt' container from the information stall.

Info & safety

The Bluesfest information stall is there to help you with all enquires you may have. St John's Ambulance will be operating throughout the Festival to assist you with any medical condition you may have. In the event of an emergency, please make your way to one of the emergency exits and follow the directions from Bluesfest Management and security staff.

If you are camping we advise that you all leave valuables in your car out of sight. Security will be present in the campground for your safety.

Green initiatives

Bluesfest only allows recyclable packaging and plastic on site from stalls and suppliers and we provide clearly marked recycling stations placed around the site for you to use. Our waste wise message is "Waste Wise- Refuse, Reuse, Reduce, and Recycle".

Food Stalls

This year the Blues will showcase a total of 32 food outlets offering a delicious range of fresh meals and snacks foods from South American to Portuguese, Middle Eastern or Indian, a good old Ozzie Burger, crepes or corn on the cob. Your taste buds will be satisfied wherever you go on this amazing festival site.

This year the food hall will be located in the Crossroads area with plenty of seating and don't forget your picnic rug to sit down in the Mojo & Jambalaya areas whilst you wait for your favourite band to come on stage. Whether you search for your favourite or try something new, come hungry and don't forget to use the correct recycle bins once you're finished.

Market Stalls

The Jambalaya area will be the highlight for those with the shopping blues with33 market stalls displaying clothing and jewellery designs, hemp products, rainbow flags, artworks, bags, silk clothing, hats and many beautiful items from all over the world. Keep an eye out for the original locally made designs and when you're finished shopping cruise over to the Crossroads area for a massage and to watch the Sandology creation come to life before you.

Mullawar Aboriginal Gallery & Didge Workshop

For the first time Bluesfest welcomes Mullawar Aboriginal Gallery & Didgeridoo Workshop, the very artists and workshop co-ordinators who have made themselves famous at Woodford Festival. They will be located besides the InDIG Stage. Join them to create your very own didgeridoo over the 5 days of the festival and see artwork on display.

Charity Stalls

This year Bluesfest proudly supports seven charities, The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will be raffling the famous Gibson Guitars and Bay FM 99.9 Byron Bay, Westpac Lifesaver Rescue, Save the Kimberley's, Landcare Australia, Marine Wildlife, The Dreaming Festival and The Yaowiwat School will also be there in need of our support. Please show your support generously.

Recycling

Bluesfest is proud to say that more recyclables were collected in 2008 than any other year at the festival. We thank you for contributing to Bluesfest's success at being a leader in waste management. This leadership has been recognised by numerous "green" organisations, most notably by winner the International "A Greener Festival" award 2007 and 2008.

In 2009 Bluesfest will continue our green campaign by providing substantial recycling facilities around the festival. We ask you to use these facilities where ever possible. Together we can decrease the volume of waste that ends up in land fill and divert it to be recycled.

You will notice that all food stalls provided 100% recyclable containers and cutlery. If you bring any food or drink into the festival please try and use only 100% recyclable containers.

Food stuff - organics

If your eyes are too big for your belly then please use the smaller grey bins for your paper plates and food scraps. We will compost this waste and it will be used in locally grown organic gardens.

Bin-ya-butts

The BIN-YA-BUTT program is still in force in 2009. We encourage smokers to pick up their free BIN-YA-BUTT film canisters from the Information Stall. Please contain your used cigarette butts in them and not discard them on the ground.

Ring pulls

Last year we noticed a significant amount of aluminium ring-pulls from beer cans discarded on the ground after the festival. Please do not detach ring pulls from your cans.

Most people live with a domestic recycling program in their home town. The same ideals and principles apply to the Bluesfest. A clean festival is a safe and fun festival!

Remember to "Green the Blues"!

NO SMOKING inside Festival tents. Please respect the comfort of others. Thank you for your co-operation.

InDIG Stage

Bluesfest with the support of Events NSW are proud to present the InDig Stage, showcasing creative work of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Pacific Rim artists. They include Saltwater Band, Christine Anu, Te Vaka, Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter.

Cabaret Stage

Visitors to the Cabaret Stage should except to be amazed with sight of eye-boggling stunts. There will be stunts, acrobatics, fire and entertainment of the wackiest kind.

Bluesfest Hotline: (02) 6685 7920

Very important

Please read the below message and help us live in harmony with the residents of Byron Bay.

We also ask all festival goers to be mindful when travelling to and from the festival. Do so quietly and when you reach your accommodation please respect the citizens of our town and to keep good order through peace and quiet of our neighbourhoods.

Member Suburb
Janine Steedman Suffolk Park
Rosa Evans Byron Bay
Michelle Harris Burleigh Heads
Fergus Cowper Morisset
Paul Savage Vaucluse
jade morrison Ballarat
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