AI, Future of Food, Hollywood Stars Light Up First SXSW Sydney

Oscar-winning actress Nicole Kidman, futurist Amy Webb and Tesla Inc. Chair Robyn Denholm were among the big drawcards at this week’s inaugural South by Southwest Sydney, the first time the sprawling tech, music and film festival has been held outside North America.

While hefty entry prices — the all-inclusive platinum passes ran as high as A$1,300 ($820) — drew some criticism, they didn’t stop hordes of people attending gigs, screenings, gaming competitions and panel discussions around the city. The festival is expected to attract around 27,000 visitors and inject A$24 million into the New South Wales state economy, according to the government.