‘Over my many years touring around Australia, I have performed at numerous festivals including Byron Bay Bluesfest, Woodford Folk Festival, Port Fairy Folk Festival, Dark Mofo, and Queenscliff. Among all of these, Dougstock stands out as one of the most vibrant, welcoming, and uniquely supportive festivals I have ever had the privilege of performing at.’
— -Claire Anne Taylor, performer / composer
"I have attended many large and medium-sized music festivals and have been involved in funding major events. However, I think Dougstock is a highlight of the event calendar… Having spoken to the established and well-known musicians at the event it is obvious that the calibre of the programming is highly respected."
— Dr Jane Lomax-Smith, Lord Mayor
‘Having played and musically directed for artists such as Paulini, Guy Sebastian, Hugh Sheridan, Kate Ceberano, and James Morrison, I have been able to see what it takes to put on an event of high musical quality, and can say without question that the level of the artists’ musicality and talent that Doug scouts out for Dougstock year after year is second to none.’
— -David Goodwin, piano, trumpet, musical director, producer
"Having first become involved in the Dougstock Music Festival as a performer in 2023, I was immediately impressed by the organisation, inclusivity, and diversity of the festival. Dougstock truly supports local, talented musicians here in South Australia providing a paid platform to share their talents, their stories, and their voices with the community."
— Nic Jeffries, Executive Director, The Adelaide Youth Orchestras
"Dougstock and those involved are a major supporter of established and developing artists such as myself. It has the potential to grow to greater heights and bring more national and international visibility to this thriving and creative original music scene in Adelaide."
— Andrew Casey, BMus (Jazz Performance) (Hons I), University of Adelaide
"Set in a beautiful location overlooking the towns and vineyards (and even out to the sea) of Willunga and McLaren Vale, it attracts a diverse, positive and happy audience… Dougstock supports local, South Australian Musicians and brings them into contact with a largely new audience."
— Don Morrison, performer, luthier and author
"I've seen entire families (and their pets) at the festival each year… SA artists are most grateful for the opportunity to showcase their original works on a big stage to a huge audience, which has embraced these performers as a whole... The location of Dougstock is breathtaking in its natural beauty."
— Dustan Cox, Senior Lecturer in Jazz Saxophone, Elder Conservatorium of Music
"From the moment you arrive you realise this is something very special and totally unique. The environment is stunning!... The festival is well laid out and the artist selection has been top notch, a superb showcase of local and interstate performers."
— Cheri George, local radio presenter
‘Dougstock is not just an event. It is a living, breathing reflection of what happens when people come together with intention, generosity, and a genuine desire to uplift one another. It creates a space where local musicians are truly heard, where small businesses are supported and celebrated, and where families and community members can gather in a safe, welcoming, and joy-filled environment.’
— -Tric Tuckfield, Dragonfly Dreaming Music & Harmony Festival
‘I first attended last year and had the wonderful opportunity to perform over the festival weekend where I was wholeheartedly welcomed by the patrons and Doug himself. As a musician, attending Dougstock was the highlight of my December last year.’
— Praise Mangena, multidisciplinary artist
‘Having attended as an audience member and as a guest vocalist in the past, I truly believe Dougstock Music Festival hs played a huge role in not only showcasing established artists in the Adelaide and surrounding areas music scene but also providing a playform for the discovery of local emerging artists such as myself.’
— -Courteney Hooper, musician / composer
‘Dougstock is more than a live music event. It is a community-building festival that delivers clear, social and economic value to South Australia.’
— -Gabriel Hyde, Proprietor, Carbon Black
‘Performing at the 2025 Dougstock Festival was a great experience. Personally, I have performed at many festivals including WOMADelaide, Woodford in Queensland, Fleurieu Folk Festival, and Dougstock is a really special one. I love it!’
— -Michelle Kerin, artist: Michelle Shanti
‘Dougstock has established itself as a meaningful cultural event that celebrates the creativity and diversity of our local music scene. By providing a platform for independent artists, the festival not only nurtures talent but also strengthens community connections and fosters a vibrant, inclusive arts culture.’
— -Jojo Krause, Owner / Director, Adelaide Marquees and Events
