Share and Follow
Efforts were underway by organizers to move the festival from Birdsville due to severe flooding caused by heavy rain.
“After thoroughly evaluating our options, we concluded that relocating the Birdsville Big Red Bash for 2026 wasn’t practical,” stated Greg Donovan, the event’s founder and managing director.
“Nature has the final say, and this year, her message was clear,” he added.
Donovan mentioned that attendees were consulted through a survey before opting for cancellation.
The event had already reached 90 percent of its ticket sales.
The 2026 line-up included Missy Higgins, Hoodoo Gurus, The Teskey Brothers, The Living End, Birds of Tokyo, Jessica Mauboy, Shannon Noll, Kate Ceberano, The Whitlams, Tim Finn, among others.
Organisers say next year’s event will go ahead with the majority of this year’s line-up confirmed for 2027.
The three-day event has drawn thousands of campers to the edge of the Simpson Desert for more than 10 years.
Thousands kick up the dust to attempt Nutbush dance world record
“We fully understand and appreciate the planning, excitement and anticipation all our adventurous patrons have when they buy tickets and lock in plans to head into the great Australian outback for the Bash,” Donovan said.
“We also know our own team’s excitement and passion for delivering the festival in this unique and amazing location. It’s a very special and spiritual place.”
Ticketholders can request a refund via Oztix, transfer their tickets to the 2027 Birdsville Big Red Bash or transfer to the 2026 Broken Hill Mundi Mundi Bash from 20–22 August 2026.
NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.