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Hardstyle festival Defqon.1 Australia cancelled “indefinitely”

“Unfortunately the Sydney International Regatta Centre and its affiliates have withdrawn their support for the event"

Hardstyle festival Defqon.1 has been cancelled “indefinitely”, it has been announced.

The Sydney, Australia edition of the festival, organised by Q-Dance, released a statement on 30th May, revealing that the Sydney International Regatta Centre had pulled its support for the festival, making it impossible to go ahead.

Last year, tragedy struck the festival when two attendees died of suspected drug overdose. Following that, New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian announced that she intended to forbid the festival from running again. She said, "I never want to see this event held in Sydney or New South Wales ever again — we will do everything we can to shut this down".

Q-Dance’s statement reads as follows...

“Warriors, it is with great sadness to inform you that Defqon.1 Festival will not return to Australia this year.

Unfortunately the Sydney International Regatta Centre and its affiliates have withdrawn their support for the event. Despite our best efforts, we have been unable to secure a suitable replacement venue for the event to take place this September.

To our fans, Ambassadors, and everyone else that has contributed to the incredible memories we created for the past 10 years: from the depths of our orange heart we would like to thank all of you for your ongoing support, dedication, and for creating the most epic family imaginable.

While we continue to look for a suitable alternative location that meets our quality standards, we remain uncertain if and when we return.”

Meanwhile, 15 other editions of the festival will still take place this year in other countries, including the Dutch edition at the end of June, which recently revealed its line-up.