Victorian Fest Becomes Hottest Ticket

The Golden Plains festival in regional Victoria has transformed from a cult favorite into a highly sought-after event, becoming one of the year's hottest tickets. This camping festival, now in its 18th iteration, is known for its unique atmosphere, where a country farm is turned into an alternate universe with a strong sense of community.

Strict policies against corporate sponsorship and a 'no dickheads' rule are hallmarks of Golden Plains and its sister festival, Meredith. This year's event showcased a diverse range of artists, including the energetic electro sounds of Cut Copy, the genre-leaping hypnotism of Water From Your Eyes, and the intense performance of Obongjayar.

The festival also featured moving sets from Marlon Williams, who performed in te reo Māori with a local Māori group, and the vibrant folk-pop of Dylan Young. Attendees experienced a wide spectrum of music, from the raw punk of Public Figures and Upchuck to the psychedelic jams of Derya Yıldırım and Grup Şimşek, and the club-ready beats of François K.

As night fell, the festival reached a climax with sets from the supergroup Bleak Squad, the soulful Jalen Ngonda, and a mesmerizing, high-energy performance by Basement Jaxx. In times where joy and community are vital, Golden Plains continues to be a beacon, maintaining its appeal for attendees who return year after year.