Camping, cold brews, and community – why COFU is more than just a gig
When the Caltowie Chilled Out ‘n’ Fired Up Music Festival (COFU) rolls around this year, it’s not just about cracking tunes, top-notch food, and an awesome lineup of Aussie music talent – it’s about a community coming together to make a difference.
And right at the centre of it is Ben Van Boekel, the bloke who started it all.
This year, Ben was awarded the well-deserved honour of the Northern Areas Council’s 2025 Citizen of the Year. But for Ben, it’s never been about the shiny trophies or the pats on the back – it’s about bringing people together, smashing the stigma around mental health, and giving rural South Australia a ripping good time.
A local hero with many hats
Ben’s story with COFU started in 2019 when he came up with the idea to throw a music festival that was about more than just having good time – and boy, did he deliver!
But Ben’s not just known as the man behind the festival – he’s a proper local legend. He’s been a footy coach, a CFS volunteer, a business owner, a martial arts instructor, and a mentor. He’s also been knee-deep in the local progress association and Apex Club. Basically, if there’s something good happening in Caltowie, you can bet Ben’s had a hand in it.
A festival with a big heart
Over the years Caltowie Chilled Out ‘n’ Fired Up Festival has gone from strength to strength, pulling in over 1,300 music lovers from all over the state (and even some interstaters) to the tiny Mid-North town of Caltowie, which normally has a population of 50.
But the real beauty of COFU is what it’s all about. Every ticket sold helps fund mental health programs in local schools, supports peer groups, and gets resources to those who need them.
“We have built an amazing platform to make a difference,” says Ben. “Our goal is to spread positive vibes, bring mental health awareness to the forefront of people’s minds, break the stigma surrounding mental health, and make a difference in our community – all while giving families the chance to come out and experience these great South Australian and Australian bands in their own backyard.”
COFU’s success has been nothing short of amazing. In 2023, it was not only a finalist in the SA Music Awards for Best Major Festival but was also crowned 2025 Event of the Year by the Northern Areas Council – an incredible achievement for a grassroots festival in the middle of nowhere! But for Ben and the Caltowie crew, the real win is the impact they’re having on people’s lives.
So far, the festival’s helped fund programs like ‘The Resilience Project’ in local schools, supported mental health first aid training, and chipped in for organisations like Lifeline and the Mid North Suicide Prevention Network. It’s also sparked some important conversations through events like ‘Chats Over Charcoal’ and ‘Secret Men’s Business’.
Get on board and join the fun
With the 2024 festival just around the corner, the community is gearing up for another unforgettable event. There’s an epic lineup of music, headlined by Adelaide rock royalty, The Superjesus; delicious food and drinks including drops from some of South Australia’s favourite breweries, distilleries and winemakers, plus the chance to camp under the stars.
You’re not only guaranteed a ripping good time, but just by being there you’re making a difference in people’s lives.
So, grab your mates, buy your tickets, and come celebrate Ben Van Boekel, the Caltowie community, and the power of music to unite people. Because at COFU, when you’re chilled out, you can truly get fired up – for music, for community, and for mental health.
Caltowie Chilled Out ‘n’ Fired Up Music Festival
Where: Caltowie Memorial Oval
When: Saturday, March 22 2025
Gates open 11:30am | Live music from noon to midnight
Tickets: www.caltowiecofu.com or Moshtix.
To find out more about what’s on offer at COFU 2025, click here.
