Grand Slam tennis champion, Paralympic gold medalist and 2022 Australian of the Year Dylan Alcott has announced his all-inclusive music festival Ability Fest will be back, bigger than ever, this March.
Backed by the Victorian Government, Ability Fest will return with its two-stage festival, welcoming all guests and artists, regardless of their abilities, to join in on the one-day music festival at Birrarung Marr (next to the Yarra) on Saturday 25 March 2023.
In partnership with Untitled Group – Australia’s largest independent music promoter and the masterminds behind Beyond The Valley, Pitch Music & Arts and more – the festival is set to be an unforgettable day featuring some of the best musical acts from Australia and beyond.
The lineup will include the likes of Hilltop Hoods, Sampa the Great, MashdNKutcher, Meg Mac and more.
“I’m so proud to see the path Ability Fest has already paved for inclusive events across the country. First and foremost, our main priority is to create a kick-ass festival that happens to be accessible. And that’s something I think we’ve achieved since launching in 2018,” said Alcott.
Ability Fest will convert Birrarung Marr on the banks of the Yarra into a completely accessible venue fitted with elevated viewing platforms, pathways, quiet zones, a designated sensory area, companion ticketing and AUSLAN interpreters to ensure a remarkable experience for all.
The festival donates 100 per cent of proceeds towards helping young Australians currently living with a physical or non-physical disability via the Dylan Alcott Foundation. Many of the suppliers and musicians donate their time to this exciting event making it an incredible festival experience with a community-endorsed purpose.
“Although my time as Australian of the Year is coming to an end, I’m excited to continue the important work of the foundation, helping grant recipients across the country by purchasing much-needed sporting equipment, providing scholarships at leading educational institutions and mentoring programs with industry trailblazers,” adds Alcott.
“Festivals and music are a quintessential part of Victora and Ability Fest sets a gold standard for inclusion, offering more people the opportunity to revel in an incredible live music experience,” said Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos.
“Ability Fest adds to a stellar line up of major events while putting Victoria on the map as an accessible destination for even more visitors.”
Since launching in December 2017, the Dylan Alcott Foundation has raised in excess of $1 million for Australians living with a disability, with recipients ranging from seven to 26 in fields such as sports, university scholarships, public speaking courses and even funding some start-ups.
The 2023 Ability Fest takes place in Birrarung Marr on Saturday 25 March. For more information, visit: www.dylanalcottfoundation.com.au for details. Ability Fest is an 18+ event.
Image: Ability Fest (supplied)