Moreton Bay Regional Council is investigating the possibility of purchasing the Queensland Folk Federation’s Woodfordia site near Woodford.
Mayor Allan Sutherland said council had expressed a strong interest in buying the iconic Woodfordia site, subject to land valuations and successful negotiations with the Queensland Folk Federation.
“As the home of the Woodford Folk Festival and the Dreaming Festival, as well as a venue for Splendour in the Grass, Woodfordia is a key cultural asset for the Moreton Bay region and council is committed to seeing that not only continue but grow,” Mayor Sutherland said.
“It is council’s understanding the Queensland Folk Federation is looking at options to help overcome the financial impact of the recent floods, and we’re signalling loud and clear our interest in buying the site to ensure it realises its full national and international potential.”
Division Twelve councillor, Adrian Raedel, said the Woodford Folk Festival and more recently Splendour in the Grass had helped to build Woodford’s reputation as a festival destination.
“You only need to walk down Archer Street during a festival to realise Woodfordia is a serious economic driver for local businesses; it brings a lot of money and jobs to town,” Cr Raedel said.
“Woodfordia is a unique site unlike any other in Australia and I’m keen for council to play a role in the famous folk festival venue to ensure it continues in its present form.”
Woodford Folk Festival founder and Executive Director, Bill Hauritz, has complimented the Mayor and councillors for helping the Folk Federation work on creative solutions to ensure the long-term viability of Woodfordia.
“Most festival patrons know the Queensland Folk Federation has been looking for a viable partner since purchasing the venue in 1994 and by working with the council I believe we can deliver certainty and optimism for a bright future,” Mr Hauritz said.
Mayor Sutherland said the decision to investigate the possibility of purchasing the Woodford Folk Festival site was one that had been carefully considered by council.
