Photo Courtesy of Kate (get out in Byron Bay) www.getout.net.au

Blues Fest 2009 was not only the first test camping / living in Machete the motor home, but also a 5 day break from Photography. Opting to relax and enjoy the experience roam around and dance to everything instead of racing to the next act, fighting for a good spot holding my breath to get that perfect band shot.

Rain Rain Rain Mud Mud Mud. Sums up the entire time. However as Linda, Mealie and I all came prepared with gum boots, The mud was an awesome experience. I met many a new face while dancing in mud puddles, not caring about it or trying to avoid it. In fact im stoked it was muddy as id rather it be cool and wet then hot dry and dusty.The line up for this 20th anniversary festival was freaking incredible. My highlights were Michael Franti & Spearhead, Seasick Steve, Kasey Chambers & Shane Nicholson (you heard me!), Archie Roach & Ruby Hunter, That 1 Guy, Tijuana Cartel, Jason Mraz, Dallas Frasca, Blue King Brown, Paul Kelly, Missy Higgins, Xavier Rudd. In fact I had consumed so much alcohol by the time Missy Higgins performed I though I had fallen in love and was determined to Marry her (shame shes not into Blokes 8| )
Over all the festival was awesome. Drinks a tad steep, but food was great and we always scoped out the hearty budget meals.. I hit the wood fired pizza place daily. Duff Man Says OH YEAH!

Back at our camp site we had probably the most enviable setup. A Motor home with its awning, 2 large tarps and 2 tents, which kept everything Dry as Bro. The Motor Home Stood out as it rose above the entire camp site by a meter. We camped at Byron Bay Holiday Park about 2 km south of Byron Bay Town Center. Shuttle busses went every half hour or so which was great but they stung you $3 each way, which was an extra undesirable cost. They did Allow you to drink on the Bus though which became a gathering of rowdy drunken Irish Safari men at one stage (you had to be there ;D )

Over all we had an awesome time. And will be heading back next year to check out the new venue. I love how everyone was so friendly and how easy it was to strike up conversations with random people.If you have the chance to head there next year do it. and Ill see you there.

Quote of the event “Lets get amongst it” Linda.

For full Photographic coverage please see Kates Photos on Flickr
Also check out “get out in Byron Bay” for all events in the area.