Mark it in your calendars: live, in-person music will return to Melbourne on October 30. The state government has announced that a concert for "several thousand people" will be held at Sidney Myer Music Bowl on October 30, subject to approval from the chief health officer, with smaller gigs also planned around to happen simultaneously around the state.
The line-up for the concert is still to be announced, though it is expected to showcase Victorian talent. The concert forms part of Victoria's "vaccinated economy" trials, which will test event settings that are attached to the state's 80 per cent double vaccination target – which we should hit around November 5.
Flemington Racecourse will also be taking part in the trials, with up to 10,000 guests expected to be permitted for the Melbourne Cup Carnival's final two days, Oaks Day and Stakes Day. Crowds will be permitted so long as Victoria has reached its 80 per cent double-dose target, with those wanting to attend needing to be fully vaccinated and wear a mask.
Similar trials are currently underway at venues such as cinemas, salons, churches, gyms, cafés and hotels in regional Victoria.