FALLS ROCKS

MARION BAY’S 15th annual Falls Festival is in full swing, with record crowds expected to attend over the next two days.

More than 16,000 people are likely to be on-site by this afternoon, after thousands filed in to see rising Tasmanian star Maddy Jane kick things off on the main stage yesterday.

That set the scene for performances by Confidence Man, Daryl Braithwaite, Jungle Giants and Grinspoon — the first taste of an eclectic international line-up that event manager Paul Piticco says has driven record ticket sales.

“Last year, we sold out right on the buzzer, and it looks like we’re going to sell out again,” he said.

“This year, I think the lineup is even better than last year — there’s a few bigger acts, and it would appeal to a broader age group.”

Mr Piticco said about 9000 patrons were on site by 5pm yesterday.

But few came from as far afield as Ceara Lavey, who travelled from London to spend six days in Tasmania — including three at Falls.

“We normally go to [massive UK festival] Glastonbury, which is huge by comparison,” she said. “This is nice because it’s so much smaller — you can navigate your way around quite easily, and find your friends.”

Tasmania Police reported no major incidents on the roads leading to the festival, but did report a small number of minor drug seizures on site.

Those offenders received a caution or will undertake a diversion process, depending on the amount of drugs seized.

Sgt Paul Devine issued a stern warning to anyone either possessing, or planning to sell, illicit drugs at the event. “The [sniffer] dogs will be back for the remainder of the event,” he said.

About 5000 more patrons are expected to arrive at the festival by 4pm today. Today’s musical highlights are set to include performances by Angus and Julia Stone, Foster the People, Glass Animals, Run the Jewels and Flume.

A small number of tickets would be available at the gate today and tomorrow.