Byron Bay - FAQs for Splendour In The Grass this Weekend

FAQs for Splendour In The Grass this Weekend

What are the dates and venue for Splendour 2012

Friday 27, Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 July at Belongil Fields, Byron Bay, where Splendour took place from 2001-2009. For 2010 and 2011 the festival was temporarily relocated to Woodfordia, near Woodford Qld, but the intention was always to return to Byron Shire.

What happened to the planned move to the new North Byron Parklands site at Yelgun?

Since 2006 Splendour In The Grass has been part of a group working toward establishing a permanent sustainable event venue to stage the festival. The chosen 660 acre site received approval from the NSW Planning Assessment Commission on April 26th 2012 but will not be ready for the 2012 event. Please visit www.northbyronshireparklands.com if you want more info.

TICKETS

Ticket resales and reissues are now closed for 2012.

What do I do if I stuffed the date of birth or spelling of a name on a ticket?

Email ticketsupport@moshtix.com.au with the details of the correction you’d like to make. Include as much information about your order as possible, including your username, order ID number and correct details and clearly request the change you’d like made. Please note this is only for minor corrections to misspelt names or slightly incorrect dates of birth. It does not refer to changing full names and/or DOB details.

Can I use Splendour’s facebook to try to buy or sell a ticket?

No, the Splendour in the Grass facebook page is not to be used as a ticket “market”. Any posts on our facebook about buying and selling tickets will be removed. The reissue & resale is controlled through the Moshtix website. Any queries regarding tickets that cannot be answered by the information provided on the Splendour website should be directed via email to ticketsupport@moshtix.com.au or answers@splendourinthegrass.com

Why did I have to supply my name and date of birth?

It’s an anti-scalping measure we introduced in 2006. All tickets have the attendee’s name and date of birth printed on them and then the ticket-holder has to provide matching ID to enter the festival.

What if I lose my ID before the festival?

Get it replaced ASAP. You must have valid ID to enter the festival. This isn’t just a ticketing requirement, it’s a legal requirement. Even with a valid ticket, you will not be admitted without ID.

A valid ID is a current photo driver’s license, Proof of Age Card or a current, valid passport. For over-18s, student ID cards do not qualify, nor do household bills or letters. For under-18s who don’t have a driver’s license or a current, valid passport we will also accept a copy of your birth certificate PLUS one of the following: a student ID card; a bus pass; a bank account statement in your name.

What if I think someone has a copy of my ticket?

At the event, we will be scanning the barcode on every ticket at the gates. Our scanner will display the name on the ticket; so your ID, our scanner and the ticket must all match. Rest assured, any impostor will be stopped at the gates! However, if you are concerned this has happened before the event, you can get your original barcode cancelled and a new one reissued. For any ticketing queries, please email ticketsupport@moshtix.com.au or phone 1300 GET TIX (438 849).

Are wristbands exchangeable, i.e. can I pass mine onto my friend if I don’t want to stay?

No, once your wristband is on, it should not be removed. Event staff will be checking wristbands over the weekend to check for breakages, stretching etc.

All Ages Info

Is the festival all ages?

Yes, but anyone aged 15 or under will need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

More information can be found here.

Are under-18s allowed into bars or licensed areas?

No. Any minors found in these areas will be evicted from the festival and may face prosecution.

Camping Info

Is the camping/event ticket per campsite or per person?

It’s per person, i.e. everyone who is camping needs a ticket.

Where/when can I purchase North Beach camping tickets?

Purchase your camping ticket at the same time as your event ticket through moshtix.com.au

Is it true there’s no camping onsite at Belongil Fields?

Yes, but we do have a Campsite which is being setup at an alternative campground location nearby called North Beach. See the Camping at North Beach page for more info.

Can I bring a camper trailer or campervan?

Camper trailers, Campervans & RVs up to 7.5m, and caravans up to 6m in length are OK. Anyone with vehicles in excess of these sizes will need to check via camping@splendourinthegrass.com

If you’re after a campervan checkout the exclusive Splendour Hippie Camper special for the best value and most secure camping option for your Splendour in the Grass experience, visit www.hippiecamper.com/splendour for all the details.

Will you be doing separate event and camping tickets?

Yes, you’ll need to have a camping ticket to camp at North Beach, plus you’ll need a separate event ticket to get into the festival.

Do I need a North Beach Campground ticket to book Tent City or Tepee Life?

YES. To book Tent City or Tepee Life you MUST have already purchased a North Beach Camping ticket. You may then choose to use – at your own additional expense – the services provided by Tent City or Tepee Life who will erect your tent or tepee so it is ready and waiting for you when you arrive.

How much space do we get for our campsite?

It’s big enough for your tent and a car. Please do not go over the top with your camping setup as space is at a premium. Overly elaborate campsites are discouraged, so you will be asked to downsize if you arrive with enough gear to re-create your lounge room.

Do we get to pick our own camping spot?

No. When you arrive at the campgrounds you will be shown where to set up camp. Please remember that space is tight in the campgrounds, and if you are driving, try to car-pool, so that you can park alongside your tent.

How many cars can we have at our tent site?

We work on a rule of thumb of one vehicle per 3-4 person tent. There is not enough room on tent sites for multiple vehicles.

Are there powered sites?

No.

When can I arrive at Splendour to set up my campsite?

You can arrive anytime after 9am on Thursday 26th July.

If we have our friends’ camping tickets, can we reserve a spot for them next to us?

No. To camp together you must arrive together. Besides, they’re not going to be able to get into the campground without their tickets.

Our friends are coming in another car. Can we camp together?

You MUST arrive at the same time as your friends if you wish to have neighbouring campsites.

I don’t have a camping ticket but why can’t I stay with my friends? It’s only one more person?

Every year loads of people hassle us about being “just one more person”. The campground has a set capacity that we must adhere to, so once camping tickets sell out we simply cannot put anyone else in there.

Can my friends staying elsewhere visit me at North Beach Campground?

Sorry, no. We have had problems with looters in the past so we will be ensuring that only those with Camping wristbands are allowed in the campground. Anyone found in the campgrounds without the correct wristband will have their event band confiscated and will be ejected from the Festival.

We only want to camp one night – is it still the same price?

Yes. There is only one price for the camping tickets.

Can under-15′s camp as a group?

No, there MUST be at least one parent or adult guardian for every 3 minors in a camping party.

More information regarding under 18′s patrons can be found in our Youth Policy.

Can under-18′s camp as a group?

Yes, but if your group contains anyone under the age of 15, there must be at least one parent or adult guardian for every 3 minors.

More information regarding under 18′s patrons can be found in our Youth Policy.

What’s the security like in the camping area?

Apart from on-site Camping Marshals, there will also be security personnel. The marshals’ campsite for each area is marked with large banners. All queries and concerns should be directed to your marshals.

Is it safe to leave my valuables in my tent?

No. Despite the best efforts of our staff and security personnel there are still scumbags who steal other people’s belongings. Leave valuables in the boot of your car or deep in your pockets. Alternatively, we will have lockers on site which can be booked beforehand, more details coming soon.

Can I bring my own generator?

You can bring your own generator, however we have a noise curfew between 12am & 7am in the campgrounds & your generator must be turned off between these hours.

Can I bring alcohol into the camping area?

No, North Beach Campground is a licensed area, which means you can’t bring alcohol into it, same as any pub or nightclub.

Can I bring fireworks into the campground?

No. Fireworks are totally prohibited in the camping or festival area. If you ignite fireworks you will be removed from the site and may be the subject of police action.

What other items aren’t allowed into the campground area?

Fireworks, flares, fire twirling paraphernalia e.g. sticks & balls etc, alcohol, illegal drugs, couches, weapons of any kind, any other items considered illegal or dangerous, strictly no animals. All gas equipment must have a current stamp or tag of compliance.

Can we have a fire at our campsite?

Open or pit fires are NOT permitted but you can have a fire if it is inside a fireproof, metal container that is not in direct contact with the ground. Gas fuelled stoves and burners are OK. Fire marshals on site will be checking you setup to ensure safety.

Are there showers and toilets?

Yes. Trailer-mounted showers and toilets will be brought in to service the campground.

Accommodation

Should I book accommodation in or around Byron Bay before I’ve bought my festival ticket?

We don’t recommend booking or paying for accommodation (or flights for that matter) until you have purchased your festival ticket. If you do book accommodation prior to obtaining a ticket, please make yourself aware of the accommodation provider’s bookings and refunds policy.

Do I need a North Beach Camping ticket to book Tent City or Tepee Life?

Yes. To book Tent City or Tepee Life you MUST have already purchased a North Beach Camping ticket. You may choose to book – at your own additional expense – the services provided by Tent City or Tepee Life who will erect your tent or tepee so it is ready and waiting for you when you arrive.

Buses

What buses will Splendour run this year?

The festival organises the shuttle buses that run between the festival and town, between North Beach Campground and the festival carpark on Melaleuca Drive, and between North Beach Campground and town. Other services to surrounding towns are operated by local bus operators – see below for more info. Airports are also serviced by private shuttle operators.

How much are the Splendour shuttle buses?

The town to festival shuttle will be $4 per person per trip. The North Beach Campground to town shuttle will be the same price. The shuttle between the campground and festival will be FREE for campers.

Will buses be running to places around Byron Bay?

Yes, but Splendour does not organise these services, although we work very closely with the operators who will be running special buses during Splendour to towns to the north and south of Byron Bay. For areas to the north such as Brunswick Heads and Ocean Shores, please keep an eye on the Brunswick Valley Coaches website. For areas to the south such as Lennox Head, please keep an eye on the Blanch’s Coaches website. Both websites will have Splendour-specific bus information when it is available.

Will you be running airport shuttles?

No, but as Byron Bay is a major tourist centre it is serviced by numerous airport shuttles that operate from Gold Coast Airport, Ballina-Byron Airport and even Brisbane Airport. A quick google search will list most of them, some of whom have good online booking services. We recommend booking in advance as these services are very popular.

Working/Volunteering

How do you select workers and volunteers?

We only use people who are already known to those directly involved with the festival, or who come recommended by trusted friends of the festival (who will have to vouch for your honesty and reliability). Sorry, we no longer accept random applicants.

When should I apply to work or volunteer?

Most of our paid positions are already full for this year. To register your interest, please contact us via work@splendourinthegrass.com (NB: most paid workers do not get to enjoy the show). Those wanting to volunteer should wait until May and then please only email if you can satisfy the above criteria.

Are there any age restrictions for workers and volunteers?

Yes, workers and volunteers must be 18 years of age or older. We do not accept volunteers who are under 18.

When will I find out if I have a volunteer position?

We usually notify successful applicants in June. We do not specify a date as staffing is just one of many aspects of planning that we have to cover.

Why can’t you tell me whether I’ve got a volunteer position before tickets go on sale?

That’s the way our planning timetable runs. We’ve got loads to organise and volunteer rosters are just one item on a very long ‘to do’ list. Also, doing rosters too early means we end up back-tracking when people pull out if they get a ticket or change their plans.

What jobs do volunteers perform in return for a ticket?

Volunteer staff work shifts in the entry tents, internal traffic control, car park co-ordination, recycling, camping etc, alongside paid personnel. Volunteers are required to do an average of 15-18 hours, depending upon the role’s level of responsibility or difficulty, in return for a full event ticket.

We don’t use volunteers for bars, ‘artist liaison’, production, publicity or admin. We don’t use any volunteers in backstage roles.

Is camping at the festival included if I get a volunteer or paid position?

No, camping is not provided on site as part of the volunteer program. Please make sure you secure camping either with our offsite campground or one of Byron’s many camping and accommodation options before committing to volunteering.

Who organises bar staff and cleaners?

Those interested in paid bar work at Splendour should email splendourbarwork@gmail.com Please note that local applicants will be given preference. These are paid positions, not voluntary, and bar staff do not get to see the show.

Our cleaning contractor for 2012 is Douglas Site Services

Performing

Is there an application form for bands to play Splendour 2013?

No, we don’t have an application or submission process, neither do we accept unsolicited band submissions.

Can I get my band on the 2012 lineup?

The main stages lineup for Splendour 2012 has been announced and no further bands will be added to the bill. The exception being for local bands from the Far North Coast – we feature a local band on each of the three main stages. Local bands this year are being selected via a triple j Unearthed competition.

How do performance artists, dancers, circus artists etc apply to perform?

Email answers@splendourinthegrass.com and we will pass your inquiry onto the curator for these areas of performance. Please note we give preference to performers from the region surrounding the festival.

Splendour Members

What is the Splendour Members Club?

It’s a club for people who have bought tickets to and attended at least five Splendour in the Grass festivals. Members get exclusive access to the first release of Splendour tickets.

What do Splendour Members get?

Access to exclusive first release tickets to Splendour in the Grass where they can purchase up to 4 tickets, that’s one for them and three for their mates.

I’ve been to five Splendours. How do I get in on this exclusive club?

Unfortunately this year’s Splendour Member application process closed on March 2nd. You’ll have to wait until 2013 to prove to us that you’ve been to 5 or more Splendours.

If I qualified as a member in the past but didn’t go last year, do I have to re-apply this year?

No, you’re still in. Welcome back.

What if my email address has changed?

Your moshtix profile will still function correctly even if it’s linked to your old email address, however it is important that you change your email address before you buy your tickets and they are sent!

You can log in to www.moshtix.com.au and update your moshfile with your correct email address. If you are having trouble, please contact ticketsupport@moshtix.com.au

Carbon Offset Tickets

What are Carbon Offset Tickets?

For the last four years, in partnership with Climate Friendly, Splendour has offered festival goers the option to buy a carbon offset ticket. For an additional investment over the regular event ticket price most or all of your travel emissions are completely offset (depending on how far you travel to get to the festival).

How much carbon did audience members offset from last year’s Carbon Offset Tickets?

Last year over 4,574 Splendour audience members took up the climate change challenge and purchased a Carbon Offset Ticket. Over 455 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions were offset through the investment of just over $13,700 in renewable clean wind farm energy. The emissions offset were the equivalent of taking 113 family sedans off the road for an entire year or the equivalent of powering over 51 homes for an entire year. Nice work.

Where was my money invested in 2011?

All monies raised from the purchase of Carbon Offset tickets went to Climate Friendly who invested these funds in Australian and International renewable energy generation such as that produced by wind farms.

Why does Splendour in the Grass use Climate Friendly to offset emissions?

Climate Friendly has been ranked the Number One carbon offset company in Australia (‘Carbon Offset Watch’ report 2008), by the Total Environment Centre, Choice Magazine and the Institute for Sustainable Futures. The ‘Carbon Offset Watch’ report is an independent survey which will help people distinguish the extent to which carbon offset providers are achieving real action to tackle climate change.

How does offsetting carbon emissions work?

Monies raised from carbon offset ticket sales are invested via Climate Friendly who offset your carbon cloud by funding renewable energy projects that save the same amount of greenhouse gas as you emit. All of Climate Friendly’s projects are independently verified and meet the highest global accreditation standards including Australian GreenPower.

If I am offsetting my travel emissions to and from the festival what does Splendour in the Grass do about their internal emissions (i.e. electricity, diesel generators, flights, trucks, etc)?

This year will be the 8th consecutive year that Splendour in the Grass has offset its own emissions associated with putting the festival together. Each year we have collected emissions data such as electricity, diesel generators, artist and crew flights, road transport and even energy used by food stalls and markets. This data is used to accurately calculate the carbon footprint of the festival and then purchase the necessary carbon credits to offset these emissions.

In 2011 Splendour in the Grass offset 516 tonnes of carbon emissions by investing over $12,400 in renewable energy generation with Climate Friendly.

What is Australia’s carbon track record like?

Although Australia is a relatively small contributor to the worlds total greenhouse gas emissions we are amongst the worst in the world on a per capita basis. Each year around 28 tonnes of Carbon Dioxide is emitted for every Australian citizen. Electricity and transport account for about 68% of our annual emissions which equates to over 340 million tonnes of CO2 entering the atmosphere.

Does attending a festival generate a lot of carbon emissions

In a UK study into carbon emissions from gigs and festivals (Julia’s Bicycle: UK Music Industry Greenhouse Gas Emissions for 2007) it is estimated that of the 400,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions generated, over 232,000 tonnes or 58% are attributed to audience members travelling to and from events. In Australia, this percentage is likely to be larger because of the greater distances we travel.

Where can I find out more about Splendour’s Environmental Initiatives?

Have a read of our Environment Initiatives section to learn more about what we achieved last year.

Where can I learn more about managing my carbon emissions?

Climate Friendly’s web site provides heaps of information about climate change and how you can play your part in reducing your carbon footprint. Check out www.climatefriendly.com

Disabled Access

What’s the site like for getting around?

It’s a flat site with grassy fields (of course!) and a few sealed or gravel roads, but it is also sandy in parts and can become boggy after continuous rainfall.

Can I get some info about disabled access?

Once you have secured your ticket, get in touch with us via the Contact Us page and a week or two before the festival we will email you information regarding access, parking, toilet locations, on-site contact details etc.

Will there be a viewing area for people in wheelchairs?

Yes. We will have dedicated viewing platforms in the big tops. For comfort and space, each eligible person can only be accompanied by one other person.

Is there parking close to the festival site?

We do have parking set aside for eligible patrons close to the site entrance, but please get in touch with us (via the Contact Us page) beforehand.

Student info requests

I’m a student wanting info on the festival for my project, essay or study purpose. Can you answer my questions?

Afraid not. We get loads of such requests and we simply don’t have the time or resources to answer each and every query, all of which differ depending upon the course of study or particular project or assignment being undertaken.

Food & Markets

How do I apply for a Food or Market Stall?

PLEASE NOTE: Food and Market Stall registrations hove closed for 2012. For more info visit www.theoutpost.net.au

At the Festival

What forms of photo ID will I need to get into the festival?

Not only will you need the below Identification to get through the festival gates, the Splendour entertainment precinct is a licensed area and as such you will be required to show ID to purchase alcohol. Splendour will only accept the following forms of Identification:

Current valid Australian driver’s license (with photo)
Current Passport
Government Issued Proof of Age Card
Victorian Keypass
International Driver’s License (must contain a photograph)

For over-18s, STUDENT ID CARDS DO NOT QUALIFY NOR DO BILLS OR LETTERS.

If you cannot produce ID you will be treated as a minor and excluded from all bar service and bar areas.

For under-18s who don’t have a driver’s license or a current, valid passport, we will also accept a copy of your birth certificate PLUS one of the following:

Student ID Card
Bus Pass
Bank Account Statement in your name

Please note that anyone aged 15 or under attending Splendour In the Grass MUST be accompanied at all times by a parent or adult guardian. Children aged 11 years and under get in free.

For more information please read the Ticket Terms & Conditions and our Youth Policy here.

What items ARE NOT ALLOWED at Splendour?

Glass, cans, alcohol, illegal drugs, skateboards, boogie boards, milk/bread crates, chairs (folding, portable, camping), anything studded (i.e. belts, wristbands etc), weapons of any kind, fireworks, video and tape recording devices, professional still cameras (small still cameras ARE allowed), laser lights, umbrellas (use a plastic poncho or a raincoat instead), water pistols, any other items considered illegal or dangerous, animals.

Can I refill my water bottle on site?

Yes.

Can I take water into the festival?

Only if it is in a sealed plastic bottle. No glass or cans allowed.

Can I pay cash at the bar to buy drinks?

Drink tickets will need to be purchased at the Drink Ticket booths first before going to the bars. These tickets can be purchased using cash or card.

Will there be ATM facilities?

There are no ATM’s at the festival although EFTPOS facilities will be available in drink ticket booths if you need to withdraw cash.

Will there be passouts at the event?

Your wristband is your passout.

Are bare feet OK?

No, you must have some footwear on. Enclosed footwear is recommended. Thongs and sandals do not suit a busy festival. A large part of our first aid crew’s time is taken up with treating minor foot injuries simply because people have worn inappropriate footwear or none at all.

Will drug sniffer dogs be at Splendour?

Yes. Splendour does not have a say in whether sniffer dogs are at the festival or not (the Police make up their own mind about such things), but Splendour does not condone or endorse the use of illicit substances and any persons found in possession of such substances will be removed from the site and may be the subject of police action.

Can I bring alcohol into the festival site?

No, the festival site is a licensed area which means you cannot bring alcohol in there, just like any pub or club. There is a bag search at the festival entrance where such banned items will be confiscated and will not be returned.

Will there be a cloakroom?

Yes, the cloakroom will be located near the front entrance close to the Forum.

What medical or first aid services will be available?

The festival will again feature a comprehensive health service which will include on-site doctors and paramedics based in first aid stations around the festival.

Playing times & Programs

When will the playing times be available?

The playing times and site map will appear on this website a couple of weeks prior to the event. This is the usual timeframe for releasing Splendour timetables, although in 2011 the playing times were released a little earlier than usual. Once released, the timetable will also be reprinted in selected newspapers and music press. There will also be an iPhone app for you to download and souvenir programs on sale at the festival.

Kids & Child Minding

Are there any kids entertainment facilities or child-minding services available on-site?

Yes, the Kidz Klub will be operating a parents’ room, arts space and various kids’ facilities and workshops at Splendour right throughout the weekend.

Are there any age restrictions?

The festival is all-ages, but anyone aged 15 or under MUST be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian at all times.

Can I bring a stroller/pram?

Yes, but the site is a little sandy in places and can be muddy if it has been raining.

Is there a discount for children?

No, but kids aged 11 and under get in free. Parents/guardians will need to provide proof of age for those aged 11 or thereabouts who may be mistaken for 12 or 13…or 14. Those aged 12 or over must buy a ticket.

Cameras

What are the rules regarding cameras & video recorders?

Non-professional ‘point and shoot’ still cameras are permitted but professional-standard still cameras and video cameras are prohibited. Support tools such as tripods are banned. Unauthorized or prohibited photography may result in film being confiscated or images deleted by festival representatives. The resale of photography is strictly prohibited. Media and professional photographers must organise proper accreditation through our media department (see Contact Us).

Will my schmicko camera be considered professional?

We can’t judge that beforehand, even if you send us pix and tech specs of your camera. Sorry, but it’s up to event staff on the day, and debate will not be entered into before or at the festival. If in doubt, you have two choices – either bring your camera and gate staff will decide if it is OK or leave that camera at home and bring a simpler ‘point and shoot’ one. The basic rule of thumb is that cameras with powerful zoom lenses or multiple lenses in a carry case are not allowed.

My phone and my digital still camera also record video and audio. Can I take that in?

Yes, to record stills and video of your friends. We do not endorse the recording of performances with such devices. However any kind of professional still camera, with zoom lenses and the like, is strictly prohibited. Any form of DV camera is also prohibited.

Can I take my video camera into the festival site?

No, definitely not.

Can I record bands just for my own use?

No.

source: Splendour in the Grass website http://splendourinthegrass.com/faqs.html

Posted: Wednesday, July 25th, 2012 Under: Arts, Byron Bay, Environment, Music, News, Sources, culture, entertainment, festivals, indigenous culture. | Home |