Your ultimate Grounded survival guide:
Everything you need to know for a magical day at the Dookie quarry.
So, you’ve scored your ticket to Grounded. Congrats! You’re about to step into one of the most unique live-music experiences in Victoria.
But you want to be prepared with the essentials so you can rock out to your favourite musical acts in peace.
Check out our list of festival must-haves to make sure your day is smooth, comfy and unforgettable.
Dress for the elements
Grounded isn’t your average paddock party – it’s in the middle of the belly of a rock quarry. That means the temperature swings are real.
With the festival falling on November 29, just two days out from summer, you can expect dry heat through the afternoon before the temperature drops in the evening.
So sure, wear your cute shorts and tank while the sun’s blazing, but don’t be that person shivering by 9pm wishing you’d packed a jumper.
Because it’s a rock quarry, we’d recommend no heels – comfy boots or sneakers are the way to go.
Sun protection
The Dookie quarry walls don’t just look dramatic, they bounce the sun straight back at you. By late afternoon, the space can feel like a natural heat lamp.
So, keep yourself comfortable by packing the obvious essentials: a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, sunnies – and yes, even an umbrella for the extra shade if you’re planning a long lounge session.
A sunburn is not the souvenir you want to take home.
Protect your skin early and often so you can last the distance: dancing, lounging and vibing without turning into a lobster.
Warm gear for the evening
Once the sun dips, the rocks release their heat and the quarry cools down. And fast.
By nightfall, you’ll be glad you threw in a blanket or two.
It’ll mean the difference between dancing into the night or heading home early because you’re freezing.
The seasoned Grounded crowd knows the drill: prepare for both extremes. Hot by day, chilly by night.
Seating and picnic gear
There’s plenty of space inside the quarry, so claim your patch and make it your own.
Whether you decide to sprawl out for a laid-back afternoon or set up a base camp between sets, the choice is yours.
Some people go all out with picnic rugs, cushions and snacks, while others keep it simple with just a fold-up chair. Both work.
The whole vibe of Grounded is relaxed and easy going, so bring whatever makes you feel comfortable.
Food and drink
You’ve got two options: BYO picnic or let the food trucks and bar do the work.
Packing your own snacks is a classic move, but travelling light means you can wander over to the festival eats whenever the mood strikes.
Think of it less like survival and more like indulgence. The goal here is to keep things tasty, easy and stress-free, so you can focus on the music.
Just remember: no glass and no alcohol.
Transport
Yes, you can drive, and if you do there’s a car park right at the venue for easy access.
But the slickest option is to jump on the festival bus from Shepparton or Benalla. It drops you at the gate, picks you up afterwards and saves you the hassle of parking or pulling designated-driver duty
Plus, it’s an instant vibe. You’ll be sharing the ride with fellow festival-goers, rolling in together already buzzing for the magic of the quarry.