Tunes On The Turf with Rob Whackett
The 12th Annual Tunes On The Turf is set to take place on the 8th of November at the Dunedoo Sports Club, and what day organisers have planned! Situated in the Warrumbungle Shire of New South Wales, the picturesque town of Dunedoo will host a lineup of great Australian talent with the legendary Ross Wilson and his band The Peaceniks set to headline the event. We caught up with Tunes On The Turf Music Coordinator Rob Whackett to find out a bit of the history of this long running festival, how he selects the acts to perform and what punters attending TOTT need to know.
Rob, you are the Festival Director for the Tunes on The Turf Festival, is this the first festival you have been involved in on the planning side of things or do you have a history in music events?
This isn’t my first time around the traps, but Tunes On The Turf has definitely been the most rewarding and community-driven event I’ve had the pleasure of being involved with. I’ve been working in music and events for quite a while now—everything from grassroots gigs in country pubs to larger regional festivals. But TOTT has a special place in my heart because it’s built from the ground up with locals, for locals.
This is the 12th Tunes On The Turf event, can you give a history of the event?
Tunes On The Turf started as a pretty humble idea—a way to bring live music to Dunedoo and create something for the community to rally around. The first event was basically a few bands, some hay bales, and a whole lot of heart. Over the years, it’s grown steadily into a must-attend weekend on the regional music calendar, attracting incredible Aussie talent and music lovers from far and wide. But at its core, it’s still about celebrating good music, good people, and the beauty of the bush.
“You’re not just a ticket number here; you’re part of something.”
What makes Tunes On The Turf different to other festivals?
The main difference is the atmosphere—TOTT feels like one big backyard party where everyone’s welcome. It’s got that genuine country charm without losing any of the professionalism or punch of a major festival. You’re not just a ticket number here; you’re part of something. Plus, our all-Aussie lineup, small-town hospitality, and community-driven vibe really set us apart.
Was it important to have camping as an option for punters when you were planning TOOT?
Absolutely. We knew early on that camping would be key. It makes the whole experience more immersive and accessible. People can come out, set up camp, and just relax into the weekend without worrying about travelling back and forth.
“We’re really conscious of keeping the festival affordable without compromising on quality”
We are living through difficult times at the moment such as the cost-of-living crisis and political unrest, what have been the challenges in organizing a festival in the current climate?
It’s definitely been a challenge. Rising costs across the board—from fuel to food to equipment hire—have forced us to think more creatively and work more closely with our community and suppliers. We’re really conscious of keeping the festival affordable without compromising on quality. It’s been about finding that balance—giving people a top-notch experience while also being fair to the artists and crews who make it all happen.
The festival is taking place at the Dunedoo Sports Club, what does having the community’s support and involvement mean to an event like Tunes On The Turf
It means everything. Without the support of the Dunedoo community and the Sports Club, there is no TOTT. From the committee who run the day to the businesses that pitch in with sponsorship or services, it’s a true team effort. That’s what makes this festival feel so genuine—there’s a real sense of pride and ownership from the locals.
“It’s a mix of energy, storytelling, and that unmistakable Aussie sound.”
Tunes On The Turf has an all Australian Rock, Indie & Alt-Country lineup. As a curator, how did you decide which bands to invite to perform?
We’re all about showcasing Australian talent—both up-and-coming and well-loved acts. When selecting the lineup, I look for bands that not only bring great music but also fit the vibe of the festival. It’s a mix of energy, storytelling, and that unmistakable Aussie sound. We’ve built relationships with a lot of artists over the years, and they love coming back because the crowd here really listens, really connects.
The event is a family-friendly affair — what's on offer for the kids at TOTT?
We’ve got the little ones covered! Our recently upgraded playground is perfect for keeping kids entertained while the grown-ups relax and enjoy the event. With safe, modern equipment and plenty of space to explore, it’s a great spot for children to burn off some energy and have fun and because the festival site is contained and safe, parents can relax knowing their kids are having a great time too. It’s about creating an event where everyone—no matter their age—feels included.
“We only have a small committee, but they are dedicated to making this day as fantastic as it is year after year. They are the unsung heroes of TOTT. ”
A lot goes into an event like Tunes On The Turf behind the scenes, is there anyone from the stage, sound or staff crews that deserve a special shout out?
There are a lot of people that contribute to this event, but first up is our awesome committee—none of this happens without them. Countless hours of preparation and organisation go into making today possible! We only have a small committee, but they are dedicated to making this day as fantastic as it is year after year. They are the unsung heroes of TOTT. The Dunedoo Men’s Shed are amazing on the day directing traffic and sorting campers to take the pressure off the committee and we really appreciate their help. A shout out must also go to the community volunteers. They are always there to help with setup and clean up and without them the job wouldn’t be done so efficiently. We are really lucky to be a part of such a great community.
What do ticket holders need to know for Tunes On The Turf? Do you have a message for punters attending this spring weekend event?
Bring your hat, chair, your dancing shoes, and a good attitude! Be kind to each other, support the local stalls, and make some memories. The weather’s looking good, the music’s going to be even better, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to Dunedoo. Tunes On The Turf is more than just a festival—it’s a weekend of connection, celebration, and community. See you on the turf!
Interview by Michelle Symes
October 2025
