THE GUM BALL INFO
Got a burning question that just can’t wait?
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions page for handy general event info.
All tickets include the option to stay overnight each day in a tent, swag or other. FRIDAY/SATURDAY ONLY tickets include ‘walk-in’ camping only. More info here.
Please note: you must also have a car and/or trailer pass to bring any vehicle, camper or caravan into the venue.
These can be purchased where you buy your festival tickets on the Humanitix website.
If there are any questions, please contact us before booking.
The three-day boutique camping festival, tucked away in the bush at Dashville in Wonnarua Country NSW, is considered by many as one of Australia’s greatest musical escapes, a must do cultural expedition for people of all ages. If by chance you’re only just learning about it now, then the truth is, you’ve got to go! And there’s no better time to jump on board as we prepare to celebrate the Gum Ball’s 21st birthday!
The festival was started in 2005 by a fella known as Magpie who still runs it to this day, alongside his wife Jess and a whole bunch of hardworking friends and family, mostly musicians.
The festival is incredibly family friendly with onsite camping and a popular BYO policy. Because of the way the festival is set up with these popular features of BYO and free range camping that attaches to the main arena, it means that it’s predominantly a three day commitment to attend. An easy commitment, once you realise how much laid back fun and community interaction is on offer. However we do offer limited single day entry tickets. Single Day ticket info can be found here.
Some people like to select the additional option to arrive early on the Thursday, which makes it a four night stay and includes a special concert on the Thursday evening. This evening often becomes a bit of a highlight! Though please note, you must have a full weekend ticket to purchase Thursday night early entry tickets.
And what about the kids?
Well, we’ve got them covered with the KIDS FESTIVAL PROGRAM at the ‘House of Big Dreams’ kids zone. Here you will find a variety of kid friendly workshops and fun activities, plus their very own silent disco. See the Other Things program below.
Along with it’s musical element, The Gum Ball offers gourmet food and market stalls, yoga, skate demos, creative workshops, indigenous learning, live art and a very popular late night silent disco as well as a bunch of stuff for the kids to get into. Most of the workshops are free to attend with the exception of the Film Developing Workshop and the Sword Making Workshop - more details below - check it out…
ADDITIONAL TICKETED WORKSHOPS
B&W Film Developing Workshop with Kate Atkinson - $65 per person
This workshop is suitable for ages 15 and over. 10 spots only!
Learn how to process black and white film with award-winning photographer Kate Atkinson.
You will be provided with one roll of 35mm film, where you can snap photos of your mates being legends at the Gum Ball. Collect your film on arrival by providing your name to the Volunteer Info Desk (opposite the Grateful Shed). The workshop will take place on Sunday afternoon during the festival. It is a hands-on workshop with space for questions.
There is an option to get your negatives scanned and posted back to you after the festival for an additional $20, (payable in cash at the workshop).
Includes a roll of 35mm Ilford hp5 400iso film, all chemicals and equipment. Please note to participate in this workshop you must bring your own 35mm film camera.
If you have any questions ahead of the workshop, email Kate on hello@kateatkinson.com.au.
Check out her work on www.kateatkinson.com.au
Wooden Sword Carving with Will Mitry - $50 per person
*Kids under 12 will need adult assistance. 15 spots only!
Come along to the sword making workshop with master carver Will Mitry, where he will guide the kids on a carving adventure. Using recycled timber, the kids will learn the basics of carving, whilst having the freedom to create their own sword to take home after the festival. Please note: this class will involve sharp knives so kids under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Extracurricular Activities
House of Big Dreams Kids Zone
A designated kids space where they can join the circus, disco dance, learn to skate and much more
The Porch
A place to expect the unexpected - from poetry to discussion panels to op shop clothes swaps
The Deck
A place to get hands-on & in touch with your creative side, workshops-a-plenty for anyone and everyone
Accessibility & Inclusion
We welcome all visitors to the Gum Ball and are committed to making the venue a safe and accessible space for everyone.
Your feedback helps us continue to improve our access program and services.
Dashville, in collaboration with Singleton Council has installed a permanent accessible pathway, implemented accessible transport options and provided inclusive amenities at the festival. We also promote meaningful employment by hiring workers with varied accessibility.
Inclusivity is at the heart of what we do, creating a welcoming space where everyone is valued and celebrated.
Check out the mud map to get your bearings around the whole site before you get here
