Geelong’s music scene receives much-needed boost

THE BARWON Club has received $50,000 in federal funding as live music begins to ramp up in the region.

The Morrison Government’s Live Music Australia Program is set to reactivate the music scene across the country with Victorian venues sharing in $2.5 million since its inception.

Barwon Club co-owner Gary Wilson said the money will go towards soundproofing and re-establishing a regular live music program at the Moorabool Street venue.

“The music industry has been on a rough road for the last 12 months so it is good to finally receive some good news,” he said.

“Sound proofing is something that has been long overdue and the rest of the money will be going towards artists fees and allowing us to lock in more gigs.”

Mr Wilson said the music scene is picking up with touring bands starting to move around the country, however it was local bands who helped get the industry going again.

“As much as live venues copped it, it was just as bad for bands,” he said.

“The only way to get through it is for everyone to come out of it together.

“It is important bands are getting gigs and that venues are getting bands.”

In August 2020 the government announced the Live Music Australia program that will set deliver $5 million annually over the four years.

Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts Paul Fletcher said the grants will support the immediate needs of the rebuilding music industry.

“The Australian music industry is facing particular pressures in light of the severe impacts of COVID-19,” he said.

“That is why we are pleased to continue to support local venues to increase performance opportunities and showcase Australian talent.”

The Barwon Club, along with Bendigo’s Hotel Shamrock and two Ballarat venues including Hop Temple and Leavers Hotel, were the Victorian venues among the second round of grants handed out by the federal government.

“Round two of the Live Music Australia Program is funding venues in every state and territory, from pubs in the remote outback, to clubs and theatres in major capital cities, assisting them to re-open as restrictions on public gatherings and live music performance are lifted,” Mr Fletcher said.