Big-name acts ready to rock at final Nimbin Roots Festival

THE much-loved Nimbin Roots Festival is set to go out in with a bang next weekend, with local favourites Hussy Hicks and Dog Trumpet — featuring former Mental As Anything rockers Reg Mombassa and Peter O’Doherty — headlining the final edition of the event.

Festival founder and director Lou Bradley has confirmed that this year will mark the festival’s last hurrah, with plans to focus on the Mullumbimby Roots Festival from 2026 onwards, following the success of its inaugural event in July.

“With Mullumbimby going so well it’s a good chance to morph them into one,” the ARIA-nominated singer-songwriter and musician said.

“It’s hard getting people to come to Nimbin. It’s hard to get to, and it’s exhausting running two events.”

Bradley said that just two per cent of Nimbin Roots ticket-holders live locally, compared to 65 per cent for Mullumbimby Roots, which helped inform the decision.

But she said she had mixed feelings about closing the chapter on a festival she originally launched to give songwriters a space to perform original music.

“It’s a sensible decision I think but at the same time it’s pretty hard not to be a bit sad about it,” she said.

“I hope it’s not one of those things that I go, ‘damn, that was a dumb idea’. Nimbin is so unique and there’s nothing that will ever come close to being like that. It’s going to be a nice little vibey last festival.”

Over the years, the festival has hosted legendary artists including Jeff Lang, Shane Howard, Ross Wilson and Neil Murray.

While Dragon — of April Sun in Cuba fame — were originally slated to headline this year, they withdrew due to a scheduling conflict.

But Bradley was thrilled to have Hussy Hicks step in with their blend of Americana, blues, country, folk, and roots.

“Initially they couldn’t play but that changed, so that’s great,” she said. “They really fit the ethos perfectly – they’re self-made and play original music and they’re passionate about their craft and very real.

“I tried to get them for Mullum Roots next year as well, but they will be overseas.”

Dog Trumpet’s Mombassa, who is also a renowned former Mambo artist, has designed the festival’s posters and artwork for both 2024 and 2025.

Other acts on the lineup include The Audreys, Paul Greene, Kingfisha, Mungo Fungo (a Regurgitator offshoot), Wild Marmalade, Emily Lubitz, Allison Forbes, Joshua Lee Wright, Thirst Trap and The Golden Gaytimes.

In true Nimbin spirit, the festival also features a Peace and Love Parade, workshops, markets and food stalls.

The Nimbin Roots Festival is on from October 24 to 26.

For tickets and full program details, visit nimbinrootsfest.com