The region’s biggest rock festival is set to return in 2026 with a $20,000 boost from Bundaberg Regional Council.
The funding, approved through Council’s Financial Assistance Program, will support the Lighthouse Rock Music, Arts and Cultural Festival, to be held at Lighthouse Fields in Burnett Heads on 23 May.
Run by local organisation Lighthouse Special Events, the festival brings together established Australian acts and emerging regional talent while drawing visitors to the Bundaberg Region.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the event was a strong fit for Council’s focus on growing the local economy and supporting a connected, creative community.
“Lighthouse Rock has quickly become a standout event for our region,” she said.
“It gives local artists a real platform while also bringing people into Bundaberg and supporting our local businesses.
“We know there’s been a strong appetite for more large-scale cultural events like this and it’s great to see that demand being met.”
A key part of the festival is its focus on developing local talent, including a Battle of the Bands competition delivered in partnership with media organisations.
The initiative gives up-and-coming artists the chance to perform in front of live audiences and connect with industry.
Lighthouse Special Events also works closely with local suppliers, contractors and creatives, helping ensure the benefits of the festival flow back into the regional economy.
Mayor Blackburn said the 2026 funding would help grow the event even further.
“This investment will help expand the festival’s reach and attract even more visitors from outside the region,” she said.
“That’s good news not just for the event but for accommodation providers, cafes, retailers and local attractions right across Bundaberg.”
Festival Director Gavin Hales said this year’s Lighthouse Rock was shaping up to be their biggest event to date.
“We are proud to be able to showcase what is the biggest and best music festival in the region,” he said.
“The funding will assist in marketing and branding so we can market the event outside the region even more than we are already doing, and increase that drive market exposure so we have many more visitors engaging in our wonderful town.
“We have the best lineup of Australian music legends that are loved by many generations, so bring the kids out for a day they will never forget and show them the music we grew up listening to.”
The Lighthouse Rock Music, Arts and Cultural Festival will take place on 23 May 2026 at Lighthouse Fields, Burnett Heads.
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This is fantastic news! A $20,000 boost from the council will be a great help in bringing the region’s biggest rock festival back in 2026. I’m already looking forward to seeing the lineup announcements.