Pete Sofo
In an electrifying shift within the Australian Festivals Association (AFA), a fresh lineup has emerged on the board for the forthcoming two years, unveiling a dynamic cohort of four new members. Among these trailblazers, Adelle Robinson, the managing director of Fuzzy Operations, ascends to the role of chair, while the renowned Jess Ducrou, an individual member and the creative force behind Splendour in the Grass, steps in as deputy chair. Ducrou, noteworthy for her recent departure from Secret Sounds Group—a company she co-founded with Paul Piticco in 2016—brings a wealth of experience to her new position.
Elise Huntley
Joining the ranks alongside Robinson and Ducrou are the illustrious Adam Smith, co-founder and director at Yours and Owls; Elise Huntley, the visionary owner of Icon Associates; the ever-passionate Pete Sofo, director of festivals and major events at Untitled Group; and the versatile Ryan Sabet, co-lead of festivals at Live Nation/Secret Sounds Group/Kicks. This newly minted board harmonizes with seasoned members Denis Sheahan (Greenfield Events), Harley Evans (Moshtix), and Jessie Parker (Laneway Festival), with Jacqui Elmas from Frontier Touring serving as the guiding secretary.
The AFA’s annual general meeting, held against the vibrant backdrop of SXSW Sydney on October 16th, heralded the election of this pivotal new board.
Ryan Sabet
Originating in December 2018, the AFA emerged as the unifying body for music festivals, driven by a mission not only to enhance the safety of festival-goers but also to streamline interactions between event promoters and regulatory authorities. By aligning decades of industry experience with governmental policy requirements, the organization aims to significantly reduce friction in the festival landscape.
Fast forward more than five years, and AFA’s roster of members now boasts a formidable array of festivals including Cedar Mill Events, CMC Rocks QLD, Good Things, and the iconic Bluesfest, among many others.
Adam Smith
Under the adept leadership of managing director Mitch Wilson, AFA represents a tapestry of stakeholders from various sectors—promoters, producers, cultural organizations, councils, and operators. As the disarray in the festival scene continues, the AFA’s role has never been more essential.
Wilson articulated the collective strength of the association, remarking, “As we grow, we can be an even stronger advocate for reducing regulatory burdens and enhancing governmental support for festivals across the nation,” especially highlighted by Bluesfest’s recent membership.
Australian Festivals Association Board:
- Chair: Adelle Robinson (Fuzzy Operations)
- Deputy Chair: Jess Ducrou (Individual Member)
- Treasurer: Chris Reid
- Secretary: Jacqui Elmas (Frontier Touring)
- People and Culture: Di Sneddon (City of Port Phillip)
- Board Members:
- Adam Smith (Yours and Owls) new!
- Denis Sheahan (Greenfield Events)
- Elise Huntley (Icon Associates) new!
- Harley Evans (Moshtix)
- Jessie Parker (Laneway Festival)
- Pete Sofo (Untitled Group) new!
- Ryan Sabet (Live Nation/Secret Sounds Group/Kicks) new!
In this ever-evolving landscape, the AFA’s fresh leadership promises to invigorate Australia’s festival scene as they boldly navigate the complexities of the industry.
