The party in the back is making a big comeback when Mulletfest rolls into this year’s Red CentreNATS, presented by LMCT+, from 5 to 7 September.

One of the most colourful and light-hearted highlights on the Red CentreNATS program, Mulletfest celebrates Australia’s most iconic haircut in all its bold, shaggy glory.

From sleek and styled to rough and rugged, competitors will battle it out across categories including Everyday, Grubby, Ranga, Extreme, Vintage, International and multiple junior divisions, all chasing the coveted Best Mullet of them All title.

The event is open to all ages and welcomes both entrants and spectators, with judging based on haircut, overall presentation and stage presence. New for 2025, the Best Family Mullet category will give households the chance to show their united mullet pride, alongside the Best Junior Mullet and the overall grand champion announcement.

Mulletfest founder Laura Johnson says Alice Springs can expect big laughs, big personalities and some seriously creative hair.

“Mulletfest is about having a laugh, embracing a hairstyle that refuses to die, and showing off just how inventive people can be with a cut that is equal parts nostalgic and rebellious,” she said.

She says the event has grown from a local novelty to a worldwide phenomenon without losing its laid-back charm.

“We get mullets from every corner of Australia. From grubby and coiffed to polished, colourful, wild and downright outrageous. The personalities behind them are just as entertaining as the hair,” she said.

Beyond the laughs, Mulletfest also has a community-minded heart, raising funds for local charities and encouraging connection. As part of that spirit, Laura is teaming up with Charles Darwin University’s hair and beauty departments to help prepare the next generation of stylists for the mullet spotlight.

“I have been in touch with the hair and beauty departments at Charles Darwin University, and I will even be running a mullet-cutting seminar for the hairdressing students,” she said.

“I will also be at the Red CentreNATS Night Markets and Fringe Festival, working with these students to cut mullets and raise money for charity. It is about more than just hair. It is about bringing people together. Whether you are competing or just watching, you are part of the fun. You do not even need a mullet to join in, but it helps.”

Mulletfest will feature across four days of Red CentreNATS. On Thursday 4 September, mullet cutting will take place on the council lawns at the Fringe Festival from 5pm to 8pm, with donations going to a local charity.

Competition heats will follow at the Lasseters Hub on Friday 5 September from 6.30pm to 8pm. The Mini Motorheads Mulletfest will run on Saturday 6 September from 10am, with the finals to be staged at Alice Springs Inland Dragway on Sunday 7 September from 11.30am.

With a place in the Mulletfest Grand Final on the line, local hopefuls are encouraged to get their names in early, fire up the clippers and start perfecting their mullet magic. Mulletfest proudly supports the Mark Hughes Foundation, raising funds and awareness to help tackle brain cancer.

The 11th annual Red CentreNATS, presented by LMCT+, takes place in Alice Springs from 5 to 7 September 2025.

Visit www.redcentrenats.com.au for tickets, entry details and more information.