Kasey Chambers took to the stage at the Mundi Mundi Bash, Australia’s largest outback music festival, marking a significant return to her roots. Addressing a crowd of approximately 15,000 fans on March 15, 2024, she shared her deep connection to the festival and the impact it has had on her life, stating, “I love it here. I can honestly say this festival changed my life.”
The festival, held near Broken Hill, served as a reflective moment for Chambers. She recounted her memories of performing in the 1980s and 1990s with her family in the Dead Ringer Band and the nostalgia that flooded back during her last visit. “We were down in Broken Hill, and it was the last day, and all the music had stopped,” she remembered. Observing the caravans filled with festival-goers heading home, she felt a wave of homesickness, prompting her to embrace a new way of touring.
“I started thinking about my childhood, where I lived in a little handmade van made by my dad,” Chambers said. This revelation led her to purchase an off-road caravan and a Chevy Silverado, enabling her to tour Australia in a more personal and connected manner. “You guys inspired me,” she told the audience, emphasizing her joy in setting up camp at the festival with her father, who plays guitar.
Chambers delivered a vibrant set that included hits such as “We’re All Gonna Die Someday,” “Not Pretty Enough,” and a powerful rendition of Eminem’s “Lose Yourself.” The first day of the festival also featured performances from notable artists like Mick Thomas, Caitlyn Shadbolt, and Rose Tattoo, creating an atmosphere of togetherness and celebration.
The festival contributed to the local community in more ways than one. A new world record was established for the largest human image of a country, with 9,161 attendees dressing in blue to form a map of Australia. This impressive display helped raise over $250,000 for Beyond Blue, a mental health organization.
Event director Greg Donovan highlighted the festival’s significance, stating, “It’s a community, and it’s the best showcase of what outback NSW has to offer.” The Mundi Mundi Bash continues to attract major acts, with Birds of Tokyo, Missy Higgins, and Iota’s Ziggy performing on Friday, followed by Kate Ceberano, The Cat Empire, and Hoodoo Gurus on Saturday.
As the festival unfolds over its three-day run, it not only celebrates music but also fosters connections among artists and fans, echoing the spirit of the outback that has shaped Kasey Chambers’ career.
