Falls Festival Organisers Have Issued An Update On Last Night’s Crowd Crush
Organisers of Falls Festival have issued another update following last night’s crowd crush which injured more than 60 people at Lorne, Victoria.
Punters reportedly lost their footing trying to make their way from DMAs on the Grand Stage to London Grammar on the Valley Stage, just before 10pm.
Posting on Facebook, organisers confirmed that 60 people were seen on site, with 19 transported to hospital. While The ABC reported of leg, rib, hip, pelvic, spinal head and facial injuries, organisers have said that none of those admitted were “critical”. A critical injury is defined as one that places a life in jeopardy.
“Medical services are in direct contact with relatives of any patients who have been admitted to hospital as per standard protocol,” the statement read. “The safety and wellbeing of our patrons is of paramount concern to us. Whilst a very distressing situation, we are heartened and thankful for the amazing work of our medical teams and staff who responded with such care and support to those affected and continue to do so for the remaining duration of the festival.”
Responding to concerned fans on social media, organisers said they were taking steps to ensure that a similar incident wouldn’t occur again. “A large section of the tent fencing has been removed to alleviate concerns and ensure patrons feel safe and can enjoy the space,” they posted on Facebook.
Due to limited reception on site, phone systems have been set up in the main arena. The festival continues tonight with performances by The Avalanches, Tkay Maidza, Catfish and the Bottlemen and Pond.
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Falls Festival’s statement in full:
An update from Lorne and the crowd exit from last night. 60 people have been seen on site and 19 patrons have been transported, none of which are critical. Medical services are in direct contact with relatives of any patients who have been admitted to hospital as per standard protocol.
The safety and wellbeing of our patrons is of paramount concern to us. Whilst a very distressing situation, we are heartened and thankful for the amazing work of our medical teams and staff who responded with such care and support to those affected and continue to do so for the remaining duration of the festival.
Anyone onsite wishing to get in touch with loved ones can access the phone systems set up in the main arena, or email [email protected] – we will get back to everyone as quickly as we can.
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Lead image from Falls 2015/2016: Rick Clifford/FasterLouder