Southbound Music Festival

The Southbound Music Festival, held annually in Busselton, Western Australia since 2005, grew to become one of the state’s most beloved music and camping events. Located at Sir Stewart Bovell Park, Southbound traditionally took place over three days around the New Year, featuring a diverse lineup of Australian and international artists spanning rock, indie, electronic, and hip-hop genres. The festival quickly expanded from a single-day event to a multi-day camping experience, earning acclaim not only for its vibrant music scene but also for its sustainability efforts, including winning “A Greener Festival” awards for eco-friendly practices. Southbound attracted top acts such as Alison Wonderland, John Butler Trio, The Presets, and Vance Joy, cementing its reputation as a premier summer festival. However, in 2016, the festival was abruptly canceled due to nearby bushfires that forced highway closures, creating logistical challenges that ultimately led to its hiatus and eventual indefinite pause.

David Chitty and Bang Bang Co., played an instrumental role in Southbound’s early success, helping to shape Southbound’s vision and operational framework. Through Bang Bang Co’s expertise the festival blended cultural vibrancy with community engagement ensuring the festival’s atmosphere was not only about music but also about connection and experience. Chitty’s leadership and creative input contributed to Southbound becoming a defining event for WA’s summer music calendar, influencing many local artists and audiences alike.