Following the deaths of 2 attendees last year from suspected drug overdoses, Q-Dance the promoters for the Defqon.1 hardstyle festival announced that the venue, Sydney International Regatta Centre, no longer will permit the event at their site and a suitable alternative is not available.
Q-Dance stated:
“Warriors, it is with great sadness to inform you that Defqon.1 Festival will not return to Australia this year.
Unfortunately the Sydney International Regatta Centre and its affiliates have withdrawn their support for the event. Despite our best efforts, we have been unable to secure a suitable replacement venue for the event to take place this September.
To our fans, Ambassadors, and everyone else that has contributed to the incredible memories we created for the past 10 years: from the depths of our orange heart we would like to thank all of you for your ongoing support, dedication, and for creating the most epic family imaginable.
While we continue to look for a suitable alternative location that meets our quality standards, we remain uncertain if and when we return.”
Defqon.1 will continue to occur in fifteen other locations across the world in 2019.
