Head to our 2011 coverage of the shirts-on policy here – the debate rages on!
Are you sick of shirtless sweaty punters rubbing up against you at music festivals? Well it sounds like the organisers of Stereosonic are too, because in a first for an Australian music event, they’ve implemented strict “TOPS ON” policy. If you’re the type with a tendency to get loose, whip off your shirt and show off your guns to anyone and everyone around you, you can expect severe repercussions at Stereosonic. “Anyone not wearing tops (singlet, t-shirt etc…) will be rejected at the gate,” it says on the festival’s website. “Anyone inside the event not wearing a top will have their wristband removed and will be ejected from the event.”
John Curtin from the Onelove Music Group, who along with Hardware are responsible for staging the keenly awaited Stereosonic tour across the country, says it’s a move they’re sure will bring a smile to a lot of their punters. “We will continue to make Stereosonic a friendly and safe environment and after extensive market research feel that having a ‘tops on’ policy was a move in the positive direction. It’s caused a lot of discussion but at the end of the day, we want our patrons to feel comfortable in their surroundings and enjoy the day,” John told ITM.
However, it’s become more that an issue of punter comfort, as licensing issues have also coming into play. Presumably, licensing rules state the punters should preferably keep their clothes on when they’re out partying and listening to music. Who would have thought!
“We are a licensed event that fall under scrutiny as event organisers will ensure that our licensing conditions are met, and we provide the safest environment, says John. “Like licensed venues such as hotels and RSL clubs we will abide by licensing rules, and finally at all outdoor events anywhere in Australia we strongly suggest to Slip Slop Slap!
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