Groovin the Moo set for long-term Lismore deal

LISMORE City Council is working with Groovin the Moo organisers, Fuzzy, to secure the popular music festival on a multi-year agreement, following its successful return to the main stage.

It has already been confirmed for Lismore next year after more than 8,000 people attended the 2026 event at Oakes Oval.

It featured a lineup of major Australian and international artists including Denzel Curry, Tones and I, Matt Corby, The Chats and Baker Boy.

Lismore mayor Steve Krieg said the council was now working closely with Fuzzy to establish a formal long-term arrangement that would secure the festival’s future in the region.

“We are currently working toward establishing a Memorandum of Understanding with the intention of setting the foundations for a multi-year agreement between Council and Fuzzy,” he said.

“That process will give both Council and the organisers a clear understanding of how we can continue working together to grow the event in Lismore and ensure it continues to get bigger and better every year.”

The event delivered significant local economic benefits, with about 50 per cent of suppliers being Lismore-based businesses.

Fuzzy CEO Adelle Robinson confirmed the festival will return to Lismore next year, praising the collaboration between organisers, the council and the community.

“We want to thank the people of Lismore for hosting us, for telling us what you wanted from the show and for showing up in droves on Saturday. See you all next year,” she said.

“From the moment I did the venue tour of Oakes Oval it was clear it was going to be a real collaboration between ourselves, the Council and the people of Lismore.

“That collaboration is what made this show really special.”

Groovin the Moo’s return adds to a growing list of major events secured for Lismore in recent years, including the Legends of Cricket match, A-League fixtures featuring the Newcastle Jets and Brisbane Roar, and the Rumble on the River Olympic pathway skateboarding event.

Krieg said the city was now building a strong reputation as a regional events destination, with major activity planned on a regular basis.

“These events are helping drive visitation, support local business and strengthen Lismore’s reputation as a regional city capable of hosting major events at the highest level,” he said.

“We are committed to growing our city, our reputation and our economy through this type of activation.

“We have a team within Council that thrives on delivering major events, building strong industry relationships and looking to the future to ensure Lismore continues to be home to these kinds of events, not just a one-off location.”