As the city of Rockhampton gears up to host to Queensland's biggest car and bike festival for the 5th year in a row on 4-6 April, organisers are busy locking in what has promised to be Rare Spares Rockynats biggest on and off-the-track entertainment line up to date. Headlining this year's Pit Stop Party will be Melbourne-based, TikTok music sensations, Playlunch, who will fittingly bring the retro dance vibes to what promises to be an electric final celebration.
Blending late 90s and early 2000s nostalgia with comedic flair, the band has forged their own unique Bogan Funk genre, which has quickly catapulted them to national fame since their debut in 2022. Known for high-energy live performances and viral music videos that celebrate iconic Aussie cultural references like Kath & Kim, Athletics Day, and ABC (Soupe Opera), Playlunch has become a staple on Australia's festival circuit and a viral TikTok phenomenon. Their 2023 debut album, Who's Ready For A Good Time?, cemented their title of one of Australia's hottest emerging acts, with High Rotation on Triple J and sell out shows across the country.
With the full program set to be announced mid-February, Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams, says that the event's diversity is one of its biggest strengths, something the team are passionate about ensuring year on year.
"While Rockynats has become known as the ultimate celebration of all things automotive, it's also built a reputation as being a diverse event that truly offers something for everyone."
Following its success and popularity last year, the three-day weekend will once again culminate in a Pit Stop Party concert at the Showgrounds on Sunday 6 April after the Full Throttle Awards.
With their sophomore album slated for release in February this year, Playlunch is ready to take their infectious energy to new heights, with Playlunch frontman and songwriter, Liam Bell, stating that Rockynats 05 will wrap up with a high-octane party that's not to be missed.
"Playlunch are so excited to be heading to Rockhampton in April for Rockynats," says Bell. "Queensland has always felt like a second home to the band because the audience is loose and always come ready to party and have the time of their lives."
"Expect a super high energy, bogan-funk show with as many Australian references crammed into the songs as you could possibly hope for," he adds. "We can't wait to party with you and close Rockynats out in style!"
Advance Rockhampton Tourism and Events Manager, Zac Garven expressed that having Playlunch headline Sunday's final concert is a huge coup for the event and the perfect way to round out three days of non-stop action and adrenaline.
"Playlunch's dynamic blend of nostalgia, comedy, and catchy hits promises to resonate with audiences of all ages and create a night of unforgettable entertainment that celebrates everything Rockynats is about."
Sunday night's Pit Stop Party, together with the Pete Murray concert on Saturday night, gives audiences a taster of what it set to be the event's biggest off-the-track program to date.
"With several exciting new additions to the off-track program, we're confident there'll be something to captivate audiences of all ages and keep them coming back for more," says Mr Garven.
Playlunch will take to the stage at the FMX Kaos Showgrounds Precinct at 7pm, with entry included in all Sunday Rockynats tickets.
Platinum tickets for Rockynats are almost sold out, with General Admission tickets still available but selling fast. Spectators can choose from a range of ticket options, including one, two or three-day passes, family tickets, concession, or youth passes. The good news for parents is that all children under 13 can attend Rockynats completely free when accompanied by an adult ticket holder.
A General Admission Adult one-day pass is only $39 if purchased before the event weekend, available from www.rockynats.com.au/GetTickets. To access the Rockynats program, download the official Rockynats app. Search for 'Rockhampton Events' in your app store.
