Covid-safe measures at Byron Bay Bluesfest 2022
Hemisphere’s Dr Bill Anseline was on the job down at the 33rd Byron Bay Bluesfest over the Easter long weekend. After a 2 year Pandemic Pause the festival was back bigger and better than ever with additional safety measures in place to ensure the event was as Covid-safe as possible.
Here are some of his Covid-safe observations over the 5 day festival…
Support crew masked and ready – checking credentials upon artist arrival
Dr Bill’s festival medical van – aside from the usual medical emergencies that happen day to day on an event of this scale, there were added requirements including Covid testing, provide negative rapid antigen test clearance to artists and support to artists who were suffering from ailments caused by long Covid.
Backstage crew were required to be masked at all times to minimise risk
Strict covid-safe plan implemented across catering department.
Masks, hand sanitiser stations and individually packaged food was common sight in catering to reduce risk of any potential transmission
Dr Bill’s festival medical van stocked with additional rapid antigen testing and masks if anyone needed
Individually packaged food options replaced more traditional open buffets to minimise covid risk potential transmission
Between sets there was covid-safe messaging across screens reminding patrons to social distance where possible, wash hands frequently and use available hand sanitisers
Despite the mask mandate having been lifted, strict bubbles and zones were implemented with masks required by those crew entering those zones
Crew, artists and support staff required daily rapid antigen testing with results uploaded each morning
Masks and check-in required when entering artist or promoter areas
Green room essentials – snacks, sanitiser and social distancing
Well done to Bluesfest for reducing the risk of COVID and helping keep the artists and staff safe and well!