Funding strikes a chord at Creswick’s Odessa

THE revival of the local live music scene just received a welcome boost at Creswick venue Odessa at Leavers Hotel.

Member for Ballarat Catherine King last week visited the venue to congratulate them on receiving $37,000 through the Federal Government’s Revive Live Program.

The funding will go towards original Australian artist fees, as well as marketing, equipment and production costs.

“Odessa at Leaver’s Hotel is a little local venue that punches above its weight,” Ms King said, taking some welcome minutes from her busy schedule to listen to some talented local musicians do their thing while on-site late last week.

“Not only are they drawing some of Australia’s biggest names in music, they are nurturing talent for the future.

“These gigs at Odessa are an opportunity to not only see great Australian artists but to get a taste of emerging musicians before they become stars.”

Odessa owner Chantel Leaver said the funding will allow the venue to team emerging local music talent up with well-established acts to gain valuable on-stage exposure, with some exciting gigs coming up.

“This grant helps secure the future of our bespoke regional live music venue and allows us to continue sharing original Australian music with our community in regional Victoria,” Ms Leaver said.

“It gives local emerging artists the chance to step onto the stage, perform, and build meaningful connections with more established performers, creating pathways, relationships and mentorship which might otherwise never exist.

“A heartfelt thank you to the Australian Government for seeing the value in our little live music venue here in the Goldfields and helping keep music alive in our region.”