One of the nation’s much-loved music festivals, Groovin the Moo, could return to the Hunter Valley… as early as 2027.
That’s the hope of Maitland City councillor Mitchell Griffin, who’ll move a motion next week calling on council to explore bringing the extravaganza back to the city.
The event, in the past, attracted such acts as Billie Eilish, Fisher, Hilltop Hoods, Amy Shark, Fatboy Slim, Regurgitator, Peking Duk, Spiderbait, Silverchair, The Black Keys, You Am I, The Presets, Sneaky Sound System, Grinspoon, Karnivool and many more to the Lower Hunter.
But, organisers shifted Groovin the Moo from its “spiritual home” in 2024.
Cr Griffin is proposing council liaise with the Maitland Showground to gauge its interest in staging the major festival again.
If the support’s there, the local government organisation would then advocate directly to the event’s organisers for a possible homecoming next year.
“Maitland boasts a strong history with Groovin the Moo and the festival has previously delivered significant economic and cultural benefits to the region,” he said.
“In fact, it was once a highlight on Maitland’s event calendar and brought tens of thousands of visitors to our city.
“Major events like this inject millions into the local economy by supporting accommodation providers, restaurants, pubs, cafes and retailers.
“Beyond the economic benefits, Groovin the Moo also help put Maitland on the national stage and provides fantastic entertainment opportunities for young people in the area.”
The latest proposal recognises that the Maitland Showground has previously proven itself capable of hosting large-scale events and remains one of the Hunter region’s premier outdoor venues.
Cr Griffin said the motion was about opening a conversation.
“I’m very keen to put Maitland back in the frame for major regional events,” he explained.
“This motion simply asks the question – if the showground is willing and the organisers are looking to expand again, why shouldn’t Maitland be part of the conversation for 2027?
“Maitland has the space, the experience and the community to support an event of this scale.”
Council will consider the motion at its next ordinary meeting on Tuesday 17 March.
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