Nudge Nudge Wink Wink back for 10th season

WHEN two groove-loving couples came together in 2015 to create a “party with a conscience”, they had no idea their heartfelt gathering would evolve into one of the Northern Rivers’ most beloved cultural institutions.

Now, Nudge Nudge Wink Wink returns for its milestone 10th season this Saturday, September 6, a decade after it began as a small community event in the rustic structure known as The Shed behind the Billinudgel Hotel.

Blending house, disco, Balearic and groove-driven dance music, the ticketed 18+ event showcases world-class DJs in a safe and inclusive setting.

The original concept was sparked by resident DJ Lord Sut — aka Darren Sutton — who also created Bondi’s Peace Beats festival, which raised funds for Greenpeace, back in 2000.

Sutton joined forces with his wife Sarah, fellow DJ Dale Stephen and Stephen’s wife Laura Peck to form the event collective Cunning Stunts.

Since then, their events have raised $433,000 for more than 40 local charities. This season, proceeds from the first two events will go to Liberation Larder, a grassroots organisation that offers free meals and compassionate support to those facing homelessness and hardship amid rising living costs.

Peck said it was incredible to have made it this far.

“Reaching season 10 is a real milestone and we’re so proud of the community that has grown around Nudge,” she said. “We never expected it to become such a cornerstone of community life in the Northern Rivers. It’s a celebration of connection, music and making a difference that just keeps building.

“The ‘party with a conscience’ ethos really resonates, and people tell us they feel part of a community where they can truly be themselves on the dance floor.

“Each DJ brings their own flavour, so no two events are ever the same.”

Peck said the event attracts a diverse crowd, with the audience ranging in age from 18 to 88. “You’ll find all ages dancing side by side, with people coming from Byron, the Tweed, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and even New Zealand,” she said. “We are increasingly seeing people come from overseas as they have heard it’s a next level event from their friends or our social media and content.

“We have a wonderful mix of locals and regulars we refer to as ‘Nudgers’. It’s not unusual to see costumes, glitter and flamboyant personalities, but what stands out most is the warmth — people make friends for life on our dance floor.”

This season, which runs through June, will also feature surprise theatre, comedy and cabaret performances presented by Brunswick Picture House.

While the first event is sold out, fans can find verified resale tickets on Tixel. The next Nudge Nudge Wink Wink is scheduled for Saturday, October 4.

For more information and tickets visit cunningstunts.com.au