Local talents score support from QMF

Queenscliff Music Festival has named its recipients for this year’s Emerging Artist Grant (EAG) and Alison McKenzie Mentor Program – an announcement which has seen two of the region’s artists score life-altering opportunities.

Momoko Rose and Nathan Seeckts were chosen for the 2019 EAG, with both talents pocketing $5,000 to support their forthcoming recordings, live shows and video projects. The pair are also scheduled to deliver individual performances on the QMF stage come November.

Hailing from the Bellarine Peninsula, Nathan took to social media to pay thanks to QMF for the grant, noting himself as “extremely lucky”.

“I’ve got a really amazing project that I’ll be working on (more details later), but for now all I can say is that it will give me a chance to promote discussion for social change and help a large section of our community in a really positive way,” he said.

“Thanks to QMF for getting behind me on this one.”

Torquay multidisciplinary artist Momoko Rose followed suit, confessing to feelings of disbelief.

“Thank you thank you thank you QMF for this amazing opportunity,” she said.

“It’s super surreal to scroll down the line-up on their website and see my photo next to artists like Hiatus Kaiyote, Remi and Missy Higgins.”

Warrnambool singer songwriter and acoustic guitarist Cooper Lower was awarded a spot in the Alison McKenzie Mentor Program, which was created in memory of a QMF board member of the same name.

Cooper’s musical intuitions have carried him to audiences at the Melbourne International Guitar Night, Fretmonkey Guitarist Showcase (USA) and Tollwood Sommerfest (Germany). Cooper will be mentored by blues artist Ash Grunwald.

The 23rd Queenscliff Music Festival will run from November 22-24. Head to qmf.net.au for more information.