Riv on the Record: Claire Stickland

THIS week I had the great pleasure of being joined by Queenscliff Music Festival (QMF) director Claire Stickland. Spin it!

Tell us how you got into the music industry?

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work across a range of music, cultural and sporting events throughout my career, from Falls Festival and RISING, to Australian Open and AO Live Stage, and even the London Olympics.

Music festivals, in particular, have a unique ability to harness an energy that lifts you out of everyday life, where you experience these moments of connection, creativity and pure joy. Standing in a festival crowd and feeling that energy is what drew me in and ultimately led me to become part of the industry.

When did you join the QMF team and what has the experience been like?

I first came to QMF almost 20 years ago, when I was lucky enough to take on a short-term event assistant role. To come full circle now and step into the festival director position feels incredibly special. I’ve been in the role for about 18 months and it’s an absolute honour, and at times surreal to lead a festival I’ve known and loved for many years.

What do you think QMF offers that other festivals don’t?

QMF offers something truly distinctive through its blend of music, community and coastal charm. It’s a festival to experience your own way – whether that’s settling in at the main stage, moving between the festival site and intimate town venues, or roaming it all to soak up every aspect and the atmosphere.

The setting invites you to slow down, explore and really connect with the place and people around you. QMF genuinely spans generations, feeling equally welcoming if you’re in your 30s, your 60s, or discovering festivals for the first time at 5-years-old. That sense of belonging across ages is what creates the special community and unmistakable QMF experience.

You’ve got the task of putting together a mega-weekend QMF lineup. Who are you signing and why?

The age-old question! Programming is such a wild and delicate process all in one. It is a balancing act – bringing together fan favourites, artists who are having their moment and emerging acts audiences are about to discover.

I personally loved last year’s lineup with incredible Australian artists like The Cat Empire, The Waifs, King Stingray and Thelma Plum all delivering high energy unforgettable performances.

Adding layers to the lineup is so important too. Elements like comedy, silent disco, pub choir, a mass jam session all make for a memorable weekend.

What do you like to get up to away from QMF?

Away from QMF a good beach session with the family and friends is hard to beat. Morning swim, a stand-up paddle or yoga are awesome. I always love a camping weekend and, of course, will jump on a festival weekend whenever the chance comes up. [I] have loved being able to share the festival experience with the kids.

What’s good about where we live?

Two things really stand out to me: the strong sense of community and the beautiful beaches. Together they create an incredible quality of life. There’s a relaxed, fun energy here, while still offering plenty to explore, experience and be inspired by.

RAPID RIV:

I’m coming over for dinner, what are you cooking? I’m likely making my go-to slow-cooked lamb and grain salad. But if it’s a Friday night, there’s no question, you’re getting homemade pizza.

Favourite movie? Almost Famous – I can’t hold back during the Tiny Dancer singalong.

Pump up song? Hard choice – a classic has to be Is This How You Feel? by The Preatures.

Best performance at QMF? Michael Franti at QMF 2024 – an epic performance, and an especially meaningful one as my first year in the role.

Bellarine or the Surf Coast? Tough call! I’ve always loved the Surf Coast, having spent many years and summers in Lorne, but the Bellarine is definitely the hidden gem.