IPSWICH City Council has given the go-ahead to a Sexfest on a property outside Rosewood.
But limitations to visitor numbers and a relocation of the event on the Calvert property have been attached to the Temporary Entertainment Event Licence granted to the organisers.
The Ipswich Tribune revealed plans for what had been dubbed as ‘Australia’s largest outdoor sex festival’ in August when a long-time, local resident raised issues about the six-day, adults-only, camping event.
Online promotional material about the event boasted of jelly wrestling, dildo-tossing contests, bondage displays, burlesque shows, stripping competitions, fire flogging demonstrations, and all-night parties.
“Rosewood shouldn’t be linked to this. Behind closed doors is one thing, but in an open paddock with our town’s name attached? That’s not the reputation we want,” the resident said, adding that many in the community were upset by the prospect of what she believed was “just one big, gigantic orgy”.
Locals also raised concerns about fire safety, security, alcohol use, and the risk of minors accessing the site.
On Monday, council’s Planning and Regulatory Services General Manager Brett Davey said conditions attached to the approval included a range of limitations and operational requirements to address concerns raised by the community, as well as the requirements of council’s local laws.
“Events such as Sexfest are regulated under local laws, which include specific requirements for events in the form of permits,” Mr Davey said.
“Decisions on permits can only be made based on the requirements of local laws and cannot consider grounds that are not included in a local law.
“In this case, there was no provision of any local law or in Queensland law, for a refusal to be made because the event may not meet undefined community standards.”
One of the conditions set by council on the approval of the permit was the relocation of the event to the middle of the property.
“[This will increase] separation from nearby residents and also take advantage of existing vegetation to screen the area from the public,” Mr Davey said.
“The Temporary Entertainment Event Licence (TEEL) sign off requires organisers to address issues around management of risk to public safety, peace and order, and the environment, including impacts on land and water, noise pollution, waste management, traffic and natural disasters.
“The event has also been limited such that a maximum of 300 patrons can attend.
“Council cannot consider the subject matter of an event in assessing a TEEL application.
“Matters relating to public sexual activity, alcohol consumption or concerns about any potential criminal activity such as drug use are the responsibility of the State Government and Queensland Police to regulate.”
Mr Davey said council had been in contact with government agencies regarding this event.
“Permit conditions are enforceable by council compliance officers.
“Non-compliance with the TEEL may lead to compliance action, including penalty infringement notices.
“Council officers will be actively monitoring and will address any issues of non-compliance with conditions outlined in the TEEL, should they be raised during the event.”