Forum seeks ideas for Geelong’s music scene

MUSIC lovers will have an opportunity to share their insights into the local music scene and contribute to the future of live music in Geelong and the Bellarine at a forum this month.

The Live Music Forum will be hosted by the City of Greater Geelong in conjunction with the Live Music Office and is intended to foster collaboration, innovation and growth within the region’s music sector.

It forms part of the “Live and Local” program launched last year, which operates as a capacity-building initiative designed to strengthen grassroots live music communities through workshops, micro-music festivals and other events.

Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan encouraged community members to participate in the free forum and share their ideas to enhance support for musicians and venues and fortify the sector.

“Whether you’re a dedicated live music venue owner, a seasoned musician, a supporter of local talent, or someone who just appreciates the power of music, we want to hear from you about the future of live music in Greater Geelong,” he said.

“This collaborative forum is a valuable opportunity to network with the city, the Live Music Office and fellow music lovers in the community to discuss what a thriving live music scene looks like for the region.”

Lucy Joseph from the Live Music Office said the forum would provide a much-needed platform for the local music industry to come together and work with the city in a positive and proactive way.

Established in 2013 by the federal government, the Live Music Office aims to increase opportunities for live music across the country by identifying and advocating for improved policies, regulations and strategies.

“The Live Music Office is thrilled to be working with the City of Greater Geelong to provide paid employment opportunities to local musicians, build capacity for more small live music performance spaces, and shape strategic policy aimed at supporting the growth of live music activity,” Ms Joseph said.

“The industry forum is an opportunity for the community to have their say on the way in which strategic policy for live music is developed, so we encourage everyone to come along and participate in the discussion.”

The Live Music Forum will be held at the Wurriki Nyal precinct located at 137-149 Mercer Street, Geelong, on Wednesday, March 20 between 5.30pm-9.30pm.

For tickets, head to geelong.link/livemusicforum