08/04/2026
If you’ve spent any time at the Backcountry festival in the last few years, you’re probably pretty familiar with these faces! Anne Chiew and Simon Wright have been driving forces behind the Victorian, and now Australian Backcountry Festivals for many years now.
We have Anne to thank for the continuation of the backcountry festival during the dark years of Covid-19 restrictions, and since then she’s volunteered for just about every role in the committee - from President, to general committee member, convenor and board secretary…and if you were lucky enough at the 2025 festival, Anne may have even guided you on a ski or splitboard tour! 🎿🏂
Simon is the legend behind the always-popular Saturday night Outdoor Bar at each festival. 🎉Wrangling vendors, permits, sponsors, changing weather forecasts, AV equipment, entertainment, decorations, and a team of volunteers, he’s pulled it off year after year! As if this isn’t enough, Simon has also volunteered as a tour guide over the years, sharing the stoke with those of you who venture out on tours over festival weekend! ❄️
Sadly for us, Anne and Simon are stepping back from the organising committee in 2026. The foundations that they have nurtured over the years allow us to continue growing and adapting the festival, and we are incredibly grateful for their contributions to ABCF and the backcountry community. While they may not be directly involved in organising the festival anymore, never fear, Anne and Simon will still be around and will remain valued members of the community - it’s hard to keep these two away from the backcountry!
Soon we’ll be looking for volunteers for organising committee roles, so if you fancy getting involved in the Australian Backcountry Festival in 2026, keep your eyes peeled on our socials… 👀
FROM ALL OF US AT ABCF - THANK YOU ANNE AND SIMON! ❤️
