Festival Fans Say ‘I Do’ On Stage

Not everyone gets to ask the love of their life to marry them in front of more than 2,500 people, but that’s what happened to Roy Illingworth on Saturday afternoon.

Roy and his partner of 21 years, Susan Haylock, have been coming to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music since 2017.

Andrew Pattison / Vammp Photography

Originally from Gippsland, Victoria, Roy’s plastering job had brought them to the Whitsundays after Cyclone Debbie.

This year, Susan had taken a trip home to visit their newborn granddaughters.

She was away three weeks and I kind of missed her a bit, so I thought it was time – we’ve been together long enough.

Roy Illingworth

The on-stage proposal at the festival was facilitated by friends Sam Vinci and Corrine Hendrikse-Vinci, along with Festival MC, Leon Mitchell.

“I never expected to do a marriage proposal on stage, but it was fantastic – I really enjoyed it,” Mitchell said.

“The crowd loved it, there was a big cheer and we’re all very happy she said ‘yes’!”.

Festival founder, Gavin Butlin, said he was proud that so many people had a personal festival story to tell.

I know couples who’ve met at the festival and now they’ve moved to Airlie Beach because they loved it so much.

Gavin Butlin – Airlie Beach Festival of Music Founder

Tickets to the 2020 Airlie Beach Festival of Music are already on sale via www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au at the special, early bird rate of $250 per three-day pass.

To stay up to date with artist announcements, follow the festival on Facebook and Instagram.