Not looking so good at the moment. They've set up an online application system[/url:1ksv3zdt] for trade day tickets, limiting two per applicant and stipulating that "only licensees & breweries can apply for trade tickets". Breweries may apply for more by contacting them directly. All attendees are being asked to have ID showing that they actually are from the trade.
I've asked a contact at CAMRA if the "licensees & breweries" rule is being strictly enforced and he's checking for me. But I still think it's going to be two tickets per applicant whatever happens.
Dave, as a licensee I think you'll be safe enough to apply directly. And, of course, the festival is still well worth paying into, though I'd recommend early in the week rather than the weekend.
I'll update this when I've heard back from CAMRA HQ.