A tragedy struck at Dreamstate on February 7 as one man collapsed from a medical crisis and later died; six others also required transport to hospitals due to a “medical episode” as a result of a suspected drug overdose. Investigators have deemed the venue a crime scene and will investigate whether drugs were involved in the death and injuries sustained by those attending Dreamstate.
Every other DJ on the lineup, and their respective fans, have a long history of participating in the use of illegal narcotics (MDMA and ecstasy) during this event. At approximately 11:30 PM, the man passed away, and one patient remains in critical condition. The way patients are evaluated for medical care may worsen their condition. A complete coroner’s report will be forthcoming.
Authorities and health officials are once again questioning what impact drugs had on the attendees and whether additional safety measures could have changed the deaths and injuries at this summer’s festival. State and festival organisers were issuing warnings over the weekend about possible “high-dose MDMA” pills or capsules floating around at this summer’s event, stating that they increase the chances of cardiac arrest, heat up, seizures, and other acute complications in large gatherings.
The Dream-State tragically brought renewed attention to the broader debate regarding pill-testing in Australia (and around the world). The New South Wales Minister for the Music & Live Performance Industry claimed no trial of pill testing took place at the festival, despite a range of other safety plans in place to assist attendees (e.g., chill-out areas, mist fans, free water). Supporters say lab analysis of all substances would help to reduce users’ risk by informing them of the actual strength and composition of pills and therefore any unexpected levels or substances they may consume; however, pill-testing opponents maintain there are too many legal and logistical concerns that exist first before pill-testing can be fully rolled out.
In order for pills to become dangerous, some context is necessary. MDMA was synthesised more than 100 years ago, but the drug has been used recreationally for many decades through association with dance culture, especially after the 1980s. Recently, NSW Health has issued public health notices about the presence of ‘high-dose’ MDMA tablets in New South Wales, which often contain two to three times the normal amount of active ingredient compared to those found before the pandemic; this variability makes it difficult for users to determine appropriate dosages and increases their risk.
Useful information on MDMA-related emergencies in the community has been provided by health professionals, who point out that symptoms can be manifested differently for each person, such as signs of a cardiac event, agitation, chest pains or seizures, or when a large quantity of water has been ingested or when it has occurred from using MDMA in conjunction with other drugs or when too much water has been consumed.
Condolences were given by NSW Health to the family of the deceased, and it was noted that some of the usual harm reduction measures that are regularly available at music festivals in New South Wales were not present, and police stated they are conducting an investigation to provide more information about how this was allowed to happen.
Immediate and operational problems that must be solved before the festival’s conclusion will need answering. Are current safety plans sufficient? Is pill testing viable as an added service? What information do the answers to these questions provide for creating a framework for post-festival assessments by both the Dreamstate party and the live music industry, helping attendees appreciate the electric atmosphere that characterises our culture? Additionally, how do these answers enhance our understanding and prevention of the harm experienced by some individuals while attending these events?
While investigators continue their investigations and the coroner finalises its report, the Dreamstate catastrophe serves as a reminder that the chemistry of a night out can have implications and effects that go far beyond the physicality of the dance floor.
