28-05-2025
The Cat Empire, Thelma Plum head up Queenscliff Music Festival 2025 line-up
Each year in November, music lovers of all ages flock to the Bellarine Peninsula for a weekend away. Their destination? Queenscliff Music Festival — the beachside Victorian event beloved for its family-friendly atmosphere and ripper line-ups.
This year is no exception, featuring Australian faves alongside a a dash of overseas acts and up-and-comers. Let's take a peep, shall we?
Do you really need to be told why The Cat Empire remain one of our country's must-see live bands? The headliners are certain to delight all sorts when their genre-fusing, party-facing ruckus takes over the main stage, celebrating their tenth album, Bird In Paradise.
Gamilaraay singer-songwriter Thelma Plum has been touring solidly behind her latest album I'm Sorry, Now Say It Back . And we'll let you in on a secret: her world-class tunes sound even better on the live stage.
Is there a better beach-y fit than US surfer turned professional strummer, Donavon Frankenreiter? He began his music career with a self-titled debut released under Jack Johnson's Brushfire Records, and like his good buddy Johnson, Frankenreiter excels at simple, soulful sing-alongs.
Yolŋu rock sensation King Stingray seem incapable of delivering a limp performance, so be sure to fit their life-affirming anthems into your viewing schedule.
Also in the mix is two Western Australian legends: homegrown folk heroes The Waifs and alt-rockers Little Birdy (who are touring their 2004 debut album later this year).
Punk rock institution Cosmic Psychos will be QMF's resident mosh pit inspectors this year, while Minor Gold will flex the golden harmonies that have made them Double J faves.
If you're after a boogie, the cosmic Squid Nebula, talented Sex On Toast or soul-funksters Suneden will be happy to supply. You've also got stomping siblings Pierce Brothers, close collaborators Didirri + Rowena Wise, the swampy blues of Opelousas, plus Fenn Wilson & The Weather.
The little tackers will go gaga for Teeny Tiny Stevies, heading up QMF's stage dedicated to kids programming. And if all that wasn't enough for you, know there's more names to be added to the 2025 line-up, rounded out by local produce, arts, and community offerings.
The three-day extravaganza takes over Princess Park, a short stroll from the historic Queenscliff Foreshore, with its gorgeous piers, cliff views and coastal walks. Plus, there's camping nearby if you prefer the outdoors.
Queenscliff Music Festival runs from Friday 28 to Sunday 29 November on the traditional lands of the Wadawurrung people, proudly co-presented by Double J.
Here's the line-up so far:
The Cat Empire, Thelma Plum, Donvan Frankenreiter, The Waifs, King Stingray, Little Birdy, Cosmic Psychos, Pierce Brothers, Didirri + Rowena Wise, Squid Nebula, Minor Gold, Sex On Toast, Opelousas, Fenn Wilson & The Weather, The Smith & Western Jury, Riley Catherall, Suneden, Teeny Tiny Stevies
Early bird tickets are on sale now.
