Review and photos by Ant Ritz
Savannah in the Round 2024: A Must-Experience Music Festival in Mareeba, QLD
If you’re not from Far North Queensland (FNQ), Savannah in the Round should be high on your bucket list. Whether you’re planning a trip to explore Cape York, Cairns, the Great Barrier Reef, Cooktown and/or the lush rainforests of Daintree and Cape Tribulation, don’t miss this three-day music extravaganza in Mareeba. This year it was held from Friday, October 11th to Sunday, October 13th, 2024, it was the perfect blend of great weather, vibrant atmosphere, and a diverse lineup that will keep you coming back year after year. For FNQ locals, this is an annual event that you should never skip.
Perfect Weather, Perfect Vibe
One of the amazing things about Savannah in the Round is the impeccable weather. Unlike other festivals, where gumboots and raincoats are festival essentials, Mareeba at this time of year offers clear skies and warm days, so you can leave the wet-weather gear at home. When it comes to festival fashion, expect to see a sea of cowboy hats, western shirts, and boots, with a sprinkling of fishing shirts and thongs. (And yes, you might spot the occasional no fashion sense Crocs-wearer.)
Country at its Core, But More Than Just Country
While country music is the heart of Savannah in the Round, this festival offers much more. The 2024 lineup boasted major international and Australian country stars, including Tyler Hubbard and Kip Moore from the USA, as well as homegrown talents like Lee Kernaghan, Troy Cassar-Daley, John Williamson, Caitlyn Shadbolt, Graeme Connors, The Whitlams Black Stump Band, The Wolfe Brothers, and Brooke McClymont & Adam Eckersley.
But if you’re into rock or soul, you weren’t left out either. Acts like Hoodoo Gurus, The Living End, Jon Stevens, Mahalia Barnes, Vika and Linda Bull, Bondi Cigars, and the legendary Brian Cadd and Glenn Shorrock also took the stage, bringing a diverse musical flavour to the weekend. For those who remember the golden years of Australian rock, Cadd and Shorrock alone were worth the price of admission.
More Than Just Music: Rodeo and Regional Flair
Being a country-focused event, the festival wouldn’t be complete without a high-quality rodeo. It’s the perfect addition to the lineup, offering festival-goers a true taste of rural Australia alongside the music.
A Growing Festival with Space to Breathe
Savannah in the Round 2024 saw a 25% increase in ticket sales compared to the previous year, with 26,000 tickets sold over the weekend. This brought 9,000 unique visitors to the Mareeba region, boosting the local economy and solidifying the festival as a key annual event in FNQ’s and Australian music lovers cultural calendar. Despite the growth, the festival still maintains an intimate and comfortable atmosphere. With four stages – two small, one mid-sized, and one main arena – there’s ample opportunity to catch a variety of performances without feeling overcrowded or rushed.
The main evening acts are thoughtfully scheduled, with no overlap, allowing attendees to enjoy each performance without the stress of choosing between artists. And whether you bring your own chair or use one of the provided ones, the layout ensures everyone gets a great view.
Camping in Comfort
Another of the unique experiences about Savannah in the Round is the camping experience. With a range of options from unpowered to powered sites, and accommodation for tents or vans, the proximity to the festival grounds means you’re never too far from the action. The camping facilities were praised for their cleanliness and convenience, adding to the laid-back charm of the weekend.
Looking Ahead to 2025With the success of this year’s event, Savannah in the Round 2025 is shaping up to be another unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a country music diehard, a rock enthusiast, or just looking for a unique festival experience in one of Australia’s most beautiful regions, now’s the time to start planning.