What Makes Byron Special?

Even with spectacular scenery and a gorgeous coastline, Byron Bay may have remained a rural hick town without two things happening. First, there was the influx of dedicated surfers from the USA and some from Oz in the sixties. Then, in 1973, the Aquarius festival happened nearby in the hinterland. Originally destined to be in Main Arm, it finally took over and recycled the dying dairy town of Nimbin.

Tricia Shantz’s terrific book Neverland documents the arrival and settling of the Surfie culture. Now, the documentary Aquarius gives a detailed and fascinating look into the creation and impact of what has been called Australia’s Woodstock. These creative ventures provide a good overview of why Byron is the way it is. Aquarius was the opening night feature at this year’s very successful Byron Bay Film Festival and will soon be rolled out into cinemas.