Underground ‘bush doofs’ get legal makeover in WA’s South West

Deep in bushland in Western Australia’s South West, a dancefloor and DJ decks are set up in a clearing.

About 70 kilometres inland from Margaret River, itself about 270km south of Perth, the set-up is the centrepiece of the launch party for a new venture — a bid by a local to create a legal alternative to so-called “bush doofs”.

The somewhat loaded term is used to describe outdoor raves held in an isolated setting.

While popular, they have drawn the ire of local authorities and complaints from neighbours over noise and public safety risks. 

In February, authorities criticised an illegal rave held at Redgate in the South West, which took place as local brigades were fighting a nearby bushfire. 

The group’s first event was held with limited capacity. (Supplied: Alchemy)

In WA’s north last year, backpackers in Broome started a petition for fewer restrictions on the parties after a crackdown by authorities.

A legal alternative

While advertised online as a “legal bush doof”, promoter and Margaret River resident Muso Kami said his new venture was a bit different in practice.

He describes it as bringing the nightclub to the forest.

“We weren’t quite sure what the reception would be because this isn’t your usual doof type of event,” he said.

“I’m coming at it with all the red tape and legalities.”

Muso Kami says he plans to host bigger events.  (ABC South West WA: Gabrielle Becerra Mellet)

The event had limited capacity and was classified as a private party, but Mr Kami still provided security and medics on-site.

He now plans to hold larger and more frequent events.

“Let’s get the doof community into a legal space where we can actually show everybody what is happening as opposed to it being misinterpreted,” he said.Changing impressions

Amy Furness attended the group’s initial event, held just over a week ago.

She said bush doofs were a chance to meet like-minded people without the “social expectation of outfits that need to be worn or beauty standards”.

“I need a dance and dancing under the stars with bare feet is very, very much a happy place for me,” she said. 

Amy Furness says the events are a chance to meet like-minded people. (ABC South West WA: Gabrielle Becerra Mellet)

“This is a place for complete freedom of expression.”

Frenchman Theo Mahoudo has found meeting people at country events much easier than in town. 

Theo Mahoudo says the events are a way to make connections. (ABC South West WA: Gabrielle Becerra Mellet)

“Even when you go to bars, trying to speak with Australians, it’s not really the same,” he said.

“Because they’re just like with their friend group they’ve known for a long time.

“It’s completely different when you meet Aussies down here.”

Glenn Ossy-Orley says he is happy to host live music events on the property.  (ABC South West WA: Gabrielle Becerra Mellet)

Property owner Glenn Ossy-Orley was more than happy to host the event on his 66 hectares of land. 

“Over here, it’s a licensed venue, so if you come as a party or a group, you’re more than welcome,” he said. 

“The South West is such a wonderful place, blessed with musicians, artists of all descriptions.

“What I’m having here is them coming to enjoy themselves.”

Lack of options

Robert Gent has helped organise multiple South West music festivals, including Smashed Avo and Meliora. 

He said the Smashed Avo festival’s first iteration, held in Donnybrook, was attended by thousands of people.

Smashed Avo festival was held in Donnybrook. (Supplied: Sasha Baker)

He said costs involved in hosting events included DJs, medics and insurance. 

“You’re spending a minimum of $400,000 in the hope that you’re going to sell enough tickets to break even,” he said.

Mr Kami is hopeful his first event will provide a blueprint for others to come and an alternative for locals and visitors keen for entertainment.

“The answer I get repeatedly is go to Perth if you want a nightlife,” he said.

“So of course people are going to try and find an alternative.”