Annual staple on the Tasmanian music event calendar A Festival Called Panama has announced plans to take a break in 2026, as it pushes to raise public awareness and amp up political pressure to protect its threatened native site.
“It’s the right time for us and it will be nice for the land and the valley to have some time to rest,” organisers recently announced in a press statement, following the conclusion of their successful 2025 event earlier this month. “We’ll be working hard on Protecting the Panama Forest and we may run some PANAMA Presents events. We’ll keep you in the loop with what we’re up to.”
“THE PANAMA FOREST IS UNDER THREAT“
“The Panama Forest is under threat,” their statement continued. “If you look up above the main stage you will see a swathe of native forest stretching up to the ridgeline. That forest is our namesake; The Panama… we need to share the news that The State Government and Forestry Tasmania have plans to open up the Panama Forest for logging. “
A Festival Called Panama’s organisers are now calling on the community to write letters to key government decision makers, to oppose the logging free-for-all on The Panama, as well as 39,000 hectares of other native forests in the Lutruwita region.
“It’s our belief that with enough of us using our voices we can make this plan too much of a political liability for the government to proceed,” they said. “So, if PANAMA has ever meant something to you, we ask that you take the time now, to send a few emails to the people in power.”
Head here if you want to lend your voice to the cause, or head here to educate yourself on all the relevant info.
On a happier note, the fest’s leaders have also praised the community for a wonderful 2025 event.
“PANAMA 2025 was majestic and beautiful. A weekend spent through the looking glass in a world of connection to land, community and art,” they added.
“You, our patrons, took care of the space and each other and treated us, the organisers, with the utmost respect. It’s noted and appreciated.”
Further Reading
A Festival Called Panama 2024: King Stingray, The Beths, Kaiit + More
