Regurgitator pull out as headliners of Lismore flood fundraiser

Regurgitator have had to pull out as headliners of this Saturday’s Rock The Rivers fundraiser.

Blame it on bad timing – though good tidings – in singer and multi-instrumentalist Quan Yeoman’s household.

The band explained in a statement: "Due to the earlier than anticipated arrival of Quan and his partner’s second baby, he will be unable to travel from Melbourne this week.

"We are very sorry we have to drop out of this highly important flood benefit for the city of Lismore and wish the organisers all the best with their endeavours to support the hardship suffered in this recent climate disaster.

"Our hearts go out to the people of Lismore and beyond ... and we hope we can make up for this sometime in the future." 

Peter Hart, promoter of the June 17 show at the Southern Cross University bar in Lismore, NSW, was quite understanding.

He posted on social media, "Of course, family takes priority, and we all wish Quan and his partner all the best on the safe delivery of their newest family member.” 

Butterfingers and Custard are now bumped up to co-headliners. 

At the same time, Regurgitator have helped bring an international guest act into the show.

Hart said, "We’re contractually obliged to keep it under wraps, so nobody will know who it is until they appear on stage... but we’re glad to have them, especially at such short notice." 

The show is almost sold out – save for a hundred tickets, which are expected to be snapped up by the time the 12-hour show begins at 1pm. 

Also playing Rock The Rivers are Diana Anaid, A Somerset Parade, Satellites, Valhalla Lights, Galaxy Girls, Noe Noah and The Sweet Little Army and Baltimore Gun Club. 

Anaid said: “Lismore is the heart of a creative Northern Rivers; it is my home, my inspiration and my sanctuary. These recent floods broke my heart. I am honoured to be a part of this fundraiser.” 

Custard added, “We are really looking forward to playing the Rock The Rivers concert and we’re just glad to have the opportunity to help raise money for people who have lost so much in the recent floods.”

It was Hart’s second disappointment with a headliner for Rock The Rivers.

He had earlier earmarked Grinspoon to top the bill, and had run an online campaign to get them to agree.

But Grinspoon begin their 33-date national tour to mark the 20^th anniversary of their Guide To Better Living on June 23. They are set to play Lismore Town Hall on September 1, though.