A man has died after falling approximately two meters from a dance floor at a clandestine music festival in rural Queensland. The incident occurred early Saturday morning at a property in Glenwood, located between the Fraser Coast and Gympie regions.
Queensland Police were called to the scene around 2:30 a.m. following reports of an altercation that preceded the man's fall. The 40-year-old man, identified as being from Kallangur, sustained critical injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Police have stated that a 33-year-old man from Burpengary remains under police guard at Gympie Hospital.
The event, known as 'Rhythm of the Wild,' is described as a two-day 'psychedelic' festival attended by over 1,000 people. Following the death, organizers announced the festival's cancellation via a social media post around 9 a.m. Saturday.
"It is with great sadness that we announce the cancellation of Rhythm of the Wild," the organizers wrote. "Due to the tragic passing of a valued member of our community, we ask that nobody comes to the property unless specifically requested. Please respect the privacy of the family, friends and everyone affected as they navigate this incredibly difficult time."
Attendees were instructed to begin leaving the property when it was safe to do so, and all music and activities were halted. The festival was promoted online as a "portal to a world alive with possibility," with descriptions that evoked immersive music experiences and community connection.
Residents in the vicinity had previously contacted authorities regarding noise from the event. One neighbor told The Courier Mail they called police about "horrendous" noise on Friday evening. The property owners had also posted on social media earlier in the week, indicating they would be away while a "party" took place on the site and apologizing in advance to neighbors for any potential noise.
Detectives are appealing for anyone with information or vision of the incident to come forward as investigations continue.