19 February 2025
Southern Downs Regional Council has refused an application by REL Events to host additional music festivals at Elbow Valley, citing incompatibility with the amenity in the rural zone, emergency management, environmental impact and community safety concerns as drivers for the decision.
Following public consultation in November and December 2024 in which 65 submissions were received, Council voted at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday 19 February 2025 to deny approval for the application to host up to 10,000 people at the Cherrabah Resort over 12 days per year.
Mayor Melissa Hamilton, Councillors Cynthia McDonald, Ross Bartley and Russell Wantling opposed the application while Councillors Morwenna Harslett, Sheryl Windle, Carla Pidgeon and Sarah Deane supported it. Mayor Hamilton exercised her casting vote to refuse the application.
Mayor Hamilton said Council had thoroughly considered all the submissions and presentations from the Council Information Session on Tuesday 11 February, acknowledging the diverse perspectives and concerns of all stakeholders.
“After thorough consideration of all submissions and presentations, Council has decided to refuse the application for additional music festivals at Elbow Valley,” Mayor Hamilton said.
“This was an incredibly close vote, and I would like to thank all my fellow Councillors for their engagement and passion on both sides.
“All Councillors thoroughly considered all the submissions and the presentations from the applicant and the submitters, and there were diverse perspectives and concerns from all stakeholders.
"The public consultation process was crucial in informing our decision, and we appreciate the community's engagement and input in a decision that impacts our region.
"While we recognise the potential benefits of hosting large events, we must balance these with the vision and values of our community and ensure we have the right events in the right locations.”
Last edited date 19 Feb 2025