Festival that debuted the burning duck returns, fired up for winter solstice

As winter settles in and the escarpment casts its long shadow over our little coastal villages, the member-owned Wombarra Bowlo is once again preparing to host Dark Scarp, a Winter Solstice festival celebrating fire, music, ritual, wellbeing and community connection.

Returning on Saturday, 20 June and Sunday, 21 June, Dark Scarp invites locals and visitors to gather beneath the escarpment to mark one of humanity's oldest seasonal traditions — the death and rebirth of the sun.

For millennia, farming communities have recognised the Winter Solstice as a turning point in their annual cycle. The year's longest night signals not only the darkest depth of winter, but also the transition to the return of the light. Here in the Northern Illawarra, where residents spend winter in the shadow of the escarpment, the changing seasons are deeply felt and celebrated. It's a time to acknowledge the challenges and burdens we carry, and symbolically release what no longer serves us as we move towards brighter days.

Festival proceedings will be led by respected First Nations leaders Clarence Slockee and Uncle Peter Button, helping ground the event in place, culture and connection to Country.

As the sun sets behind the escarpment, the Wombarra Bowlo Choir will perform. Festival goers may also enjoy art workshops, roving performers, installations and spectacular fire twirling performances.

A wellbeing program will feature breathwork, yoga and guided experiences, alongside wood-fired sauna sessions presented by Bondfire and ice baths from Saunaus, offering participants the opportunity to embrace the invigorating spirit of winter.

Music remains at the heart of Dark Scarp, with an outstanding line-up of local and touring artists performing across the festival. We're looking forward to hosting the amazing band Ferrari Party for a double headliner, as well as Godtet, Dan Mac & Jake Meadows, Chaperone, Saturn Chromatic and Sophia Rose.

Last year’s event sold out, drawing hundreds of people from across the region.

Dark Scarp reflects the role Wombarra Bowlo plays as a place of community gathering and connection. In an increasingly busy and disconnected world, the festival offers a chance to slow down, share stories around the fire, and reconnect with neighbours. Come along for the music, the ritual, the wellness experiences, the fire, or simply to spend time with your community.

Dark Scarp takes place at Wombarra Bowlo on 20–21 June. Tickets and full program details are available at Bowlo.com.au.