In 2017, I held a communal music festival, to celebrate my 40th birthday, called Rock on River. People camped in tents and caravans, ate and drank BYO, bands played for beer, we handed around a collection tin and gave all the money to the sound man. 

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The party was a great excuse for bands to form and re-form. Summer time was spent jamming, gathering, drinking beers, having a laugh. In many ways, the idea for the festival was motivation to live the kind of life that was satisfying. We had a go at putting together projects - such as painting signs and banners, learning how to play instruments, and planning to travel to the Clarence Valley for a gathering of like-minded individuals. 

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The line-up included Adi-B, Cherub, Rob Imeson, The Stained Daisies, Massic, Airborne Blues Virus, Lindsay Henderson, Sea of Stones, Pint Break, Joe Terror, Headpound, Hennessy Drive, Kealy and Coalby Day, T.I.SAM, Violent Sun, and Scheissenhausen. The legendary performance by William Crighton is still spoken about. 

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In 2027, I will turn 50, and so I think that we should gather again. Times have moved us all along, and a few things have changed. Rock on River will no longer be on the river, so the name has changed to Revolution Rock. The new venue is lovely and should be a wonderful retreat. There will be spaces for us all to camp in tents and caravans. It will still be BYO.

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The plan is to move in and start the music on Good Friday (Friday 26 March), go through Saturday and Easter Sunday, and pack up and travel home on Easter Monday (Monday 29 March). The venue is Tanamon Bush Gallery which is at Pillar Valley, between Grafton and Wooli.

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Putting this on in 2027 is not cheap. After Rock on River, many punters said they would have happily donated to pay for the event. So, I wish I didn’t have to, but I am going to ask for donations to help cover the costs of Revolution Rock. There is a link on the home page at the top. It is not compulsory but would be appreciated. Consider how many days you will attend and donate whatever you feel is viable.

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The money will be used to cover costs such as venue hire and sound production. Any remaining money will be divided amongst the bands, especially those travelling long distances. 

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As this is my birthday party, attendance will be by invitation only. Invitations will be emailed or handed to you. It's a family friendly event. 

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Thank you for your interest and support. Bring on the good times! 

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Matt Lobsey