Page 53 - Port Douglas Magazine 44
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major events.
Zac Brown Band
FROM OCTOBER 9 TO 12, THE QUIET CHARM OF MAREEBA in Far will offer a rich mix of stories and sounds. From blues and folk to
North Queensland will once again pulse with music, culture, country soul and roots rock, there’s something for every ear.
and community as Savannah in the Round returns for its 2025 Yet Savannah in the Round is more than a music festival - it’s an
edition. invitation to explore one of Australia’s most unique and beautiful
Set against a backdrop of tropical highlands and the famous regions. Just an hour west of Cairns, Mareeba sits on the edge of
nearby reef coastlines, this unique festival continues to bring the Atherton Tablelands, a place where rainforest meets savannah
world-class artists to Mareeba while shining a spotlight on the and waterfalls tumble through ancient volcanic landscapes.
region’s natural and cultural richness. During the trip, festivalgoers can discover nearby wonders like
This year’s lineup is the biggest yet, led by Grammy-winning Barron Falls, Lake Eacham, and Kuranda, or take a drive through
Southern rockers Zac Brown Band. Known for their magnetic live the sprawling countryside. For the more adventurous, the Great
shows and chart-topping hits like “Chicken Fried” and “Colder Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest are within reach, offering
Weather,” the band’s blend of country, soul, and rock n’ roll is set to world-class snorkeling, diving, and wildlife encounters.
electrify the Savannah stage. Back at the festival, the camping village offers the full weekend
Joining them is Nashville star Jackson experience with on-site amenities,
Dean, whose breakout single “Don’t Come food and drink vendors, and a relaxed
Lookin’” hit No. 1 on the Country Airplay chart, community vibe. Whether you’re rolling
earned Platinum certification, and gained out a swag, parking the van, or booking
widespread attention after being featured KNOWN FOR THEIR MAGNETIC in for glamping, there’s a spot for every
on the hit TV series Yellowstone. He’ll also style. Don’t have gear? The pop-up
be alongside homegrown powerhouse LIVE SHOWS AND CHART- village offers rentals and bell tent
James Johnston, whose return to the main TOPPING HITS LIKE CHICKEN packages to keep things comfortable.
stage marks his continued ascent as one of FRIED AND COLDER WEATHER, For those not camping, return shuttle
Australia’s most beloved country artists. ZAC BROWN BAND’S BLEND OF services from Cairns, the Tablelands, and
The 2025 bill is stacked with legends and COUNTRY, SOUL, AND ROCK N’ Port Douglas make day-tripping easy.
favourites across generations. Aussie icons ROLL IS SET TO ELECTRIFY THE Many locals treat it as a long weekend
like Kasey Chambers, Daryl Braithwaite, SAVANNAH STAGE. tradition, while travelers from further
James Reyne, and Beccy Cole will bring afield often turn it into a longer holiday,
their unmistakable sounds to Mareeba, while pairing the music with everything the
rock fans will be treated to sets from Baby tropics have to offer.
Animals, Rose Tattoo, and Chocolate Starfish. There’ll be a strong Now in its sixth year, Savannah in the Round continues to grow
showing of talent from across the nation, from Amber Lawrence, while staying true to its roots: a celebration of music, community,
Casey Barnes, and Andrew Swift, to newcomers like Lane Pittman, and the land it calls home. With a lineup that spans genres,
Max Jackson, and viral country duo Zac & George. generations, and borders, 2025 is shaping up to be a standout year.
The festival isn’t just a who’s who of Australian country and rock. It’s So gather your crew, plan your road trip, and get ready to make the
also got international talent, welcoming Canadian favourites The most of a weekend where the music is loud, the landscape is wild,
Washboard Union and The Road Hammers, plus outlaw country and the vibes are as warm as a Tropical North Queensland sunset.
artist Jesse Daniel and Nashville Nights Songwriters Festival artists
Angus Gill, Kylie Sackley, and Blue Foley from the U.S.
And while the main stage keeps the crowd moving, the festival
continues to spotlight Australia’s diverse music scene across
multiple stages. Acts like Fanny Lumsden, Sara Berki, Denvah, BOOK TICKETS NOW
The Pigs, 19-Twenty, Hussy Hicks, and Neil Murray & Black Image www.savannahintheround.com.au