Mordi Fest

ALEX LAHEY wants to connect with you. Known for her grippingly relatable songs that straddle the indie, pop and punk worlds, the Melbourne-born multi-instrumentalist, producer and songwriter has become a beloved staple of Australian music and a touring favourite across the US, Europe and the UK.

AL hit her stride with her distinctive brand of infectious indie rock across three critically acclaimed albums that have earned her ARIA Gold certification, two ARIA Award nominations and multiple songs in the Triple J Hottest 100. Her third album, ’The Answer Is Always Yes’ released in 2023, was given high praise by The New York Times and was awarded ‘Best New Music’ certification on Pitchfork.

Currently working on her highly anticipated fourth album, AL also has a reputation as a sought-after collaborator, becoming a go-to writer and producer for artists including Maggie Lindemann, Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, Christian Lee Hutson, The Buoys, Gordi and many more.

Comprising four friends (Maisie, Mike, Jimmy and Dev) from the coastal town of Frankston, Victoria, The Belair Lip Bombs craft heartfelt and hook-laden indie rock songs connected by the group's close bond and friendship.

Led by Maisie Everett (vocals, guitar), the group formed in 2017 and built an early following across Melbourne supporting local acts Ladyhawke, Spacey Jane, Slowly Slowly, Tired Lion, Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, British India and more.

In 2018, the group released their debut, self-titled EP,  a collection of six tracks characterised by loud rock influences and 90’s grunge guitar sounds. In 2019, the group expanded their sound further on ‘Songs to Do Your Laundry To’, an EP that explored indie rock and pop sonics across its tight three-track run.

Refining their sound throughout 2020, The Belair Lip Bombs followed the success of early standout tracks ‘Blah Blah Blah’ and ‘Golden Skin’ with the 2021 single ‘Out of Here’ — an earnest and love-sick rock track that has cemented the groups knack for writing catchy, slick and honest pop songs.

Although cutting their teeth through a sonically varied and exciting beginning, the group made their most defining statement on 2023’s ‘Lush Life’, a record spanning 10 tracks of evocative exploration with stories that run a gamut of longing, seeking new horizons and discovering new paths to satisfaction and self-fulfillment.

If debut albums are meant to serve as the gateway, a first impression, then The Belair Lip Bombs’ introductory effort paints a vibrant and emotive portrait of a band truly finding their sound.

'The album is titled "Lush Life"—these words are referenced a few times throughout the album. Themes or motifs explored in the album often involve a longing for something that isn’t there, but maybe not quite knowing exactly what that something is. The term "Lush Life" sort of describes a picture-perfect world where everything is easy (but doesn’t actually exist),' says Maisie.

Initially released on Cousin Will Records in Australia, ‘Lush Life’ was recently reissued through Jack White’s Third Man Records, culminating as both the first Australian release on the international label and the beginning of an exciting record deal between the band and label. Since the release of ‘Lush Life’, the group have performed globally at Austin’s SXSW festival and The Great Escape in the UK.

Locally, 2024 has seen The Belair Lip Bombs perform at Laneway Festival and Golden Plains, alongside national tours supporting Hockey Dad, Militarie Gun, Blondshell and more. The group have also embarked on a longlist of headline tours in Australia, New Zealand and the UK/EU—including sold out shows in London, Melbourne, Brisbane and more.

The Belair Lip Bombs are currently in the writing phase of their sophomore album, which is set for release on Third Man Records worldwide in 2025.

Killing Heidi are officially forever. Twenty years ago, when the disarming folk-pop of Kettle launched Ella and Jesse Hooper into high radio rotation, it was something neither expected. But tour after tour, the Violet Town siblings are finding their explosive power pop more entrenched in the Oz rock pantheon.

There's a whole generation that doesn't need reminding that the early '00s belonged to Killing Heidi. Weir hit #2 and Mascara #14 in Triple J’s Hottest 100. Debut album Reflector won four major ARIA awards and sold 4 times platinum as Ella and Jesse took out the prestigious APRA Songwriters of the Year award in 2001.

After a fruitful decade of diverse solo and duo pursuits, the pair reignited the flame for the 20th anniversary of Queenscliff Music Festival in 2016: a perfect reflection of their first teenaged performances under the Killing Heidi banner.

Blown away by the warm welcome and electric energy of a capacity crowd, they went on to meet snowballing demand at the Zoo Twilights concert series at Taronga and Melbourne Zoos.

In 2018, they kicked it up another gear with a SOLD-OUT capital cities tour backed by Live Nation and followed by an extensive regional run of shows. A year later, they hooked up for a co-headlining national tour with '90s rock icons, Baby Animals.

In Summer 2020, Killing Heidi performed across every state and territory of Australia as part of the epic Red Hot Summer Tour, with fellow Australian rock giants Hunters & Collectors, James Reyne, The Living End, The Angels, Baby Animals and Boom Crash Opera. 

With one of the most undeniable, ethereal, dramatic voices this side of Kate Bush, Katy Steele is returning to the stage in fine form, unveiling new music in a taste what’s to come from her forthcoming album.

Delivering a string of intimate acoustic events across the country, Katy and good friend/music maestro Ben Witt will take new tunes on the road, with stripped-back previews of never-before-heard songs from her forthcoming album.

With almost two decades in the Australian music industry, Katy Steele continues to leave an impression with her profound songwriting and ethereal talent. Emerging at 19 years old as lead singer for ARIA nominated outfit Little Birdy, Katy went on to release three studio albums with the band including BigBigLove, Hollywood and Confetti. An established career drenched in highlights, Katy is now carving out the next chapter of her already incredible career.

General event information

Where and when is Mordi Fest?

Mordi Fest will be held at Peter Scullin Reserve, Mordialloc:

• Saturday 1 March, 11am to 10pm
• Sunday 2 March, 11am to 7pm

Entry fees

How much is entry to Mordi Fest?

The entry fee is $5 per person or $10 for families. 

How do I purchase a ticket to Mordi Fest?

There are no pre-booked tickets for Mordi Fest, simply show up on the day!

Crowds are set to be big, so plan your day and arrive early.

Getting to the event

How do I get to Mordi Fest?

Walking, cycling or using public transport is the best way to get to Mordi Fest!

Peter Scullin Reserve is a short walk from Mordialloc Train Station on the Frankston line. The following buses also travel to Mordialloc: 705, 706, 708, 709, 811, 811/812, 812, 903. Plan your journey on the PTV website.

Please note: parking is very limited in the surrounding streets.

Will there be any road closures in the area?

There may be road closures the week of and after the event. Check back here closer to the event.

What to bring (and what not to bring)

What do I bring?

It is advised to bring a bottle of water and remember to wear a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. 

Free sunscreen will be available at our information booth. Water stations will be available for free water.

What can’t I bring?

• No BYO alcohol or glass.
• No dogs or pets.
• No shade structures, chairs, tables, umbrellas or tents.
• No large-lens cameras, unless pre-arranged with event management.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are not permitted at Mordi Fest or at Peter Scullin Reserve at any time. Assistance or support dogs are welcome.

Can I bring my own chairs or shade?

No, chairs and shade are not permitted. There will be plenty of chairs and shade available on site.

Please don't hesitate to speak to one of our friendly team members on the day for assistance.

Food and drinks

Is there food available?

We have a great selection of food and drinks on offer for you.

Please bring a bottle of water and keep it topped up at the free water station on site.

Can I bring my own food?

Yes, you can BYO food, but nothing in glass and strictly no alcohol.

Amusement rides

What are the amusement rides/games?

We are still confirming the amusements. The amusements are all located within the no-alcohol zone.

How much do the amusements cost?

The amusement rides are pay per ride and vary in cost up to $12.00

All ages event

What ages are allowed at Mordi Fest?

All ages are welcome at Mordi Fest. It is a family-friendly event.

Lost kids

What is the procedure for lost kids?

There are plenty of Kingston staff and contractors on site and we will help you and the little ones!

If you find a child who is lost: Take the child to the information booth or speak to a Kingston team member.

Lost a child? Head to the information booth and the Kingston team will assist you.

Accessibility

Is the venue accessible?

Peter Scullin Reserve is wheelchair friendly and has accessible footpaths, parking and toilets. If you require any assistance on the day, please speak to our friendly event staff. An event map will be posted on our social media platforms and this web page to help you plan your Mordi Fest visit.

Is the event pram friendly?

Peter Scullin Reserve is pram friendly and includes accessible footpaths.

Performer and Vendor EOIs 

How do I become a Mordi Fest vendor?

Expressions of interest for vendors have now closed, but you can find out more about our vendor application process and sign up to be notified when vendor applications open for future events.