Pierce Brothers

Australian indie folk rockers Pierce Brothers are bringing their new album Everything Is Bigger Than Me all around Australia in their biggest regional tour since 2019!

Featured in festivals all around the country (including Bluesfest, Big Red Bash, and the Mundi Mundi Bash), off the back of a European tour and armed with a brand new album, Pierce Brothers’ infectiously energetic show is sure to sell out quick!

Recorded and self-produced by the brothers, Everything Is Bigger Than Me is the culmination of their musical prowess as they come up on a decade since the release of their breakout EP The Night Tree. Featuring the singles Studio, Bottle, and their l latest release Wilder feat. Lullanas, Everything Is Bigger Than Me is out March 29 – PRE-SAVE HERE.

Jet

Jet are Nic Cester (vocals/guitar), Chris Cester (vocals/drums), Cam Muncey (vocals/guitar) and Mark Wilson (bass). Formed in Melbourne in the late ’90s, Jet released their first EP, the vinyl-only Dirty Sweet in 2002. Get Born was released after their label deal with Elektra and was followed by the albums Shine On in 2006 and Shaka Rock in 2009. After riding a wave of international success, Jet disbanded in 2012 before re-forming in early 2017. Just recently in November last year, the band received the honour of being inducted into the 2023 ARIA Hall Of Fame.

Get Born scored six ARIA Awards and was certified 9 times platinum in Australia, making it one of the top 5 highest-selling Australian rock albums of all time. The unparalleled success of Get Born at home was only one part of the story, as Jet topped both the US Modern Rock and Mainstream Rock charts and toured with the likes of the Rolling Stones, Oasis and Kings Of Leon, with eventual total worldwide sales in excess of 5 million albums.

Jet will play Get Born in full, re-visiting the incredible track list that won them fans right across the world – including timeless tracks such as Are You Gonna Be My Girl, Look What You’ve Done, Rollover DJ and Get Me Outta Here. Songs that sound as invigorating today as they did 20 years ago.

Jet

The Seekers and Beyond

Local group The Geekers return to the Shed for a day of all things Seekers, with dialogue from Colin Mockett OAM.

Morning tea provided.

Australian icons Chain, Stars and The Bushwackers unite for Heritage Legends tour

Three of Australia’s most cherished bands from the ’70s era are set to join forces for a nostalgic evening of authentic Aussie Blues, Country-Rock, and Folk. Chain, Stars, and The Bushwackers will combine their talents for a special tour, promising an unforgettable journey through classic Australian music.

With hits like “Black and Blue” and “Remember When I Was Young” from Chain, “Mighty Rock” and “Look After Yourself” from Stars, and timeless favourites such as “The Band Played Waltzing Matilda” and “I Am Australian” from The Bushwackers, audiences can anticipate an electrifying showcase of iconic tunes.

The Heritage Legends Tour Dates:

Thur May 23: Lighthouse Theatre Warrnambool
Fri May 24: The Memo, Healesville
Sat May 25: Bunjil Place, Narre Warren
Sun May 26: The Athenaeum, Melbourne
Thu May 30: The Capital, Bendigo
Fri May 31: Costa Hall, Geelong
Sat June 1: West Gippsland Arts Centre, Warragul
Sat June 2: Frankston Arts Centre, Frankston

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

Each band holds a significant place in Australian music history, with Chain earning the title of the Godfathers of Oz Blues. Since the late sixties, they’ve left an indelible mark on the blues/rock scene, boasting a style uniquely their own. Managed by a young Michael Gudinski and signed to Mushroom Records, Chain’s original members Phil Manning and Matt Taylor remain legendary figures in the industry.

Stars, a Country-Rock ensemble formed in Adelaide in 1974, swiftly made waves with their original compositions. Signed by Michael Gudinski to Mushroom Records, they emerged as one of the era’s hardest-working bands. Original members Mick Pealing and Roger McLachlan, joined by acclaimed musicians like Geoff Achison and Ed Bates, continue to captivate audiences with their timeless sound.

Meanwhile, The Bushwackers, with over 50 years in the business, epitomise the spirit of Australian folk music. Led by the renowned Dobe Newton and backed by the musical prowess of Roger Corbett, their music is infused with a unique larrikin charm.

The Heritage Legends Tour promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for lovers of authentic Australian music. With performances scheduled across various cities, including Melbourne, Geelong, and Bendigo, audiences will have ample opportunity to witness this historic collaboration.

Tickets are available for the May/June 2024 tour dates, with venues ranging from the Lighthouse Theatre in Warrnambool to the Frankston Arts Centre.

For more information and updates, visit www.facebook.com/sinclairartists.

Where Art Meets Nature: Australia’s first Environmental Art Gallery is coming to Halls Gap

Australia is about to witness the birth of its inaugural dedicated art and environment precinct, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Halls Gap. Spearheaded by the Allan Labor Government, this pioneering venture aims to establish a national hub for environmental art while championing artists from across the continent.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos, unveiled the commencement of construction on Australia’s National Centre for Environmental Art. Nestled on a sprawling 16-hectare expanse near the Grampians (Gariwerd), this ambitious project promises to redefine the intersection of art and nature.

Stay up to date with what’s happening within the region’s art scene here.

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Dubbed the Where Art Meets Nature (WAMA) precinct, the development will boast a cutting-edge, climate-controlled art gallery, accompanied by a café, retail space, and a multipurpose room tailored for workshops and events. Embracing the symbiosis between art, science, and the environment, the gallery will play host to artist workshops and educational sessions, inviting both locals and tourists to immerse themselves in its offerings.

Expect to be captivated by major exhibitions inspired by the natural world, featuring artwork sourced from leading galleries across Australia and beyond. But WAMA isn’t just about indoor marvels; it’s also a celebration of the great outdoors. The precinct will encompass restored native bushlands and meticulously landscaped botanic gardens, complete with meandering paths, informative signage, and tranquil gathering spots, all made possible through generous investments from the Labour Government.

With over 13 jobs created during the construction phase and a commitment to sourcing materials locally, WAMA is not just an artistic endeavour; it’s a boon for the Victorian economy.

“We’re proud to support the construction of this visionary project, which will showcase the spectacular natural surroundings of the Grampians and entice art lovers and nature enthusiasts from far and wide,” Minister Steve Dimopoulos said. “We’re backing unique cultural experiences like the WAMA project across the state because they attract visitors to the regions and support local businesses and jobs.”

Anticipate the grand opening of WAMA to the public in early 2025, promising an unforgettable fusion of art and nature. Keep up with the latest updates here.

We The Kings announce Melbourne & Brisbane headline shows for April

We The Kings, the pop-punk sensation hailing from Florida, is gearing up for two headline shows in Australia, set to ignite the stages of Stay Gold in Melbourne on Wednesday 10 April and The Brightside in Brisbane on Tuesday 16 April.

For those who missed out on snagging tickets for the sold-out Simple Plan tour, this is your golden opportunity to catch We The Kings live in action.

We The Kings Headline Shows

Wednesday 10 April: Stay Gold, Melbourne
Tuesday 16 April: The Brightside, Brisbane

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

We The Kings will be joining forces with Canadian rockers Simple Plan on their highly anticipated headline tour across Australia next month. Alongside pop-punk royals Boys Like Girls and rising star JAX, the tour promises an exhilarating showcase of energetic performances and infectious melodies.

Since bursting onto the scene in 2007 with their self-titled debut album, We The Kings have captured hearts with their buoyant spirit and emotionally resonant songwriting. Hits like “Check Yes Juliet,” “Sad Song,” and “We’ll Be A Dream” have cemented their status as icons of the pop-punk genre, while their latest single, “The Best Part,” released on Valentine’s Day, serves up a catchy breakup ballad sure to resonate with fans old and new.

General tickets on sale: Wednesday 21 March @ 9 am AEDT time Tickets available from destroyalllines.com

The Beatles meet the Everly Brothers Tribute Show

The two biggest groups that influenced the 50s and 60s music history, were The Beatles and The Everly Brothers.

In the 50s…Don and Phil Everly wrote some of most romantic and amazing love songs in music history:

Dream Dream
Til I Kissed Ya
Walk Right Back
Wake up Little Susie and
Cathy’s Clown

Their close harmonies were legendary… and of course The Beatles to this day are the biggest selling recording group in history… songs include:

Get Back
Yesterday
Hey Jude
Love Me Do
He Loves You
Ticket to Ride
Do You Want to Know a Secret
All My Loving
and many more.

Be transported back to the 60s style with this wonderful costumed and styled show presented by
Issi Dye and Glen Douglas.

Beyond The Shadows

Relive the songs made famous by Cliff Richard and the Shadows.

Morning tea provided.

Emma Donovan

This concert showcases the talent and the new work of celebrated, ARIA-nominated, award-winning Indigenous singer and songwriter Emma Donovan and will include her trademark soul/country songs and new music recorded in Gumbaynggirr and Noongar languages.

Emma proudly is one of the First Nations artists, spearheading efforts to put traditional languages on the music map. She will also share stories, providing her audiences with an understanding of Country and community.

Blue Sunday Blues Band

Blue Sunday, one of the finest Blues bands going around are back at Pistol Pete’s.
Joining Marco Goldsmith will be Craig Creswell, Ron Hilla, Lenny Keys, Brad Harrison & JP.
Always a great night, so grab ya friends, then grab ya tickets.
You won’t be disappointed

From Anchorman to Harry Potter, you can revisit your favourite films on the big screen this month

Taking place for the entirety of March, Village Cinemas across the country are inviting film enthusiasts to take a nostalgic deep dive into cinematic history as they celebrate their 70th birthday with a month-long lineup of beloved classics.

From the laughter of Notting Hill to the magic of Harry Potter and the toe-tapping beats of Footloose, cinephiles can immerse themselves in the timeless charm of iconic films, all screened on the big screen for an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Keep up with the latest in local news and entertainment here.

With a choc top and large popcorn in hand, this is your excuse to ditch the streaming platforms and embrace the magic of the silver screen. Plus, tickets are available starting from a retro price of just $13, offering incredible value for an evening of cinematic delight.

Here’s what’s coming up:

14 March: The Mummy
15 March: Alien
16 March: Kung Fu Panda
16 March: The Matrix
17 March: Mary Poppins
17 March: National Treasure
18 March: Goldfinger
19 March: Rear Window
20 March: Dr. Strangelove
20 March: Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy
21 March: Election
22 March: The Terminator
23 March: The Incredibles
23 March: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
24 March: The Muppet Movie
24 March: Forrest Gump
25 March: Speed
26 March: Once Upon a Time in America
27 March: The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou
28 March: Footloose
29 March: Fight Club
30 March: Batman
31 March: The Shawshank Redemption

Village Cinemas has rolled out the 70 Years of Cinema program across all their venues, including the beloved Geelong location. Whether you’re in the heart of the city or nestled in the suburbs, you can join in the festivities and experience the magic of cinema like never before.

For those eager to plan their cinematic adventures, Village Cinemas has made it easy to explore the full Retro Program and secure tickets.

Simply visit their website to browse the selection of films and screening times, then book your tickets online for a hassle-free experience. Check out all the films.

Barwon Edge Café: The riverside haven transformed by the ALMA and Felix team is now open

Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Barwon River, the long-awaited Barwon Edge Café emerges as Geelong’s newest haven for foodies, families and nature lovers alike. Spearheaded by the seasoned team behind ALMA and Felix, this contemporary café space, which recently underwent a stunning transformation, invites guests to immerse themselves in a relaxed yet unparalleled dining experience.

Opening off of the back of a successful new outdoor cinema series at the venue, the cafe officially launched to the public in early March as part of the riverside venue’s extensive transformation. The first part of the transformation saw the opening of a refined and timeless restaurant and events space, which officially opened back in September, delivering on the promise of a distinguished menu, edgy styling, and exceptional service that patrons have come to associate with ALMA and Felix.

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.

Picture-perfect and inviting, Barwon Edge Café arrives as the second offering, which sees the team expand into new territories, with the venue delivering a more casual and family-friendly alternative.

Taking over a separate section of the iconic destination, Barwon Edge Café offers not just a meal but an escape—a retreat from the frenetic pace of daily life. With its breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a combination of communal and more intimate cafe seating, it sets the stage for moments of relaxation and indulgence, where every sip and bite is savoured amidst serene surroundings.

In true ALMA and Felix fashion, the café’s ambiance strikes a delicate balance between sophistication and comfort. Overseen by the renowned team at ALMA and Felix and executed to perfection with the help of Flux Interior Design, Pleysier Perkins Architecture, and Coastal Grain (AKA the absolute dream team!), the space exudes understated elegance, with every detail meticulously curated to elevate the blissful dining experience.

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But beyond its aesthetic allure lies the heart and soul of Barwon Edge Café—the food offerings that promise to please even the most discerning palates. The menu showcases a diverse array of mouthwatering dishes, each crafted with locally sourced ingredients, championing sustainable farming practices while ensuring freshness and quality in every bite.

Offering an all-day breakfast menu with a similar contemporary and inventive take on Middle Eastern cuisine as the restaurant, highlights include the smashed avo on sourdough with whipped feta and hazelnut dukkah, the indulgent Big Brekky Flatbread, featuring crispy bacon, fried mushrooms, mozzarella, eggs and spiced hollandaise, and the aromatic Hummus Shakshuka with poached eggs and spiced tomato. There’s also classics like eggs your way, with sides available, Ket Baker pastries, and an egg, bacon and cheese ciabatta roll.

Amidst the eclectic menu offerings at Barwon Edge Café, the pizza selection stands out as a true crowd-pleaser. From the grilled zucchini, adorned with feta and olives, to the marinated chicken with red peppers, mozzarella and harissa mayo, the pizza offerings cater to every palate and preference.

And for the little ones, the Kiddo Cuisine ensures that even the tiniest diners are treated with the likes of scrambled eggs on toast, ham and cheese toastie, chicken nuggets and chips and pizzas.

Of course, the cafe is serving up delicious cups of Cartel Roasters Coffee too.

Proving to be the place to go for relaxed catch-ups with your friends and family or when you’re looking to tick the boxes for kid-friendly dining while providing a pleasant outing for parents too, you’ll even find a custom-built playground for the kids, located in prime viewing area of the outside seating area.

Open seven days a week from 7 am to 3 pm, Barwon Edge Café welcomes guests to embark on a culinary journey unlike any other.

With no bookings required—just walk in and be greeted by the warm embrace of exceptional hospitality and unparalleled experiences – it’s all about great, authentic food with as little fuss as possible.

Barwon Edge is located at 40 Windsor Rd, Geelong. Find out more here.

‘I could just be addicted to the dopamine of performing’: Melbourne’s Saint Victoire is one to watch

Recently securing the runner-up placement at the Emerging Artist Stage at Festival of Sails, Saint Victoire leaves a lasting mark with her unique fusion of Americana, folk, country, and alt-pop-rock influences.

Hailing from Melbourne’s outer-east, Saint Victoire, born Heidi, has been nurturing her talent since childhood. Her love for music blossomed at the tender age of four, sparked by a humble cassette tape of country classics cherished by her mother. Imbued in the timeless tunes of Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Tammy Wynette, and Patsy Cline, she sought solace in the melodies resonating through the carport.

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

“I think that’s when my passion really must have started,” she muses. “I used to make recordings of myself imitating these singers on the old cassette players where you could stick a tape in and hit record. Then as I got older, my big brother really got into drumming, and he would set up this tiny microphone on our parents’ record player and make me sing along while he drummed to Limp Bizkit, Linkin Park and Blink-182.”

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With a diverse musical background and a wealth of experiences, Saint Victoire’s evolution into a professional musician was inevitable; an integral aspect of her identity intricately woven into her essence.

“I don’t think there was ever a moment where I consciously thought I would pursue music as a career, music has just always been so much a part of me,” she reflects. “Being on stage in front of an audience is when I feel most grounded, at home and myself. I can’t even explain how much I love it, it’s the best.”

With a voice reminiscent of Maggie Rogers’ poetically moving narratives and Stevie Nicks’ ethereal allure, Saint Victoire commands attention with her sound, leaving listeners craving more of her captivating melodies. “I think at the moment, I’m loving songs with a lot of energy and lift, especially with powerhouse vocals,” she explains, hinting at the driving force behind her dynamic sound.

Drawing inspiration from legendary artists such as Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, Ben Howard, and Lana Del Rey, among others, Saint Victoire’s lyrical prowess knows no bounds.

“Lana Del Rey changed the entire landscape of modern music,” she explains, “I’m currently really inspired musically by bands like The War on Drugs, the Killers (more recent catalogue), Gang of Youths, Sam Fender, Bruce Springsteen, Angie McMahon and Led Zeppelin. I watch a lot of live performance videos and when I see these guys killing it, I’m just like ‘let me up there, I gotta do that’.”

Saint Victoire’s songwriting process is deeply personal, often sparked by fleeting moments of inspiration. “I usually will have an idea in a dream… I’ll wake myself up if I think it’s good and quickly write down everything I can remember of it,” she reveals. “For me, songwriting is a job of listening, so I need as few distractions as possible so I can hear clearly. I usually keep the blinds closed and I listen and visualise performing the song. I only write what comes naturally, either in the narrative or melodically. I don’t ever want to try and force a song into a direction that I think it ‘should’ go, but will listen until I hear where it ‘wants’ to go.”

Crafted with care and sincerity, her songs aim to resonate with listeners on a profound level, offering solace and a sense of belonging.

“I care deeply for people and the human condition and I hope that it translates through my music. If someone can come away from a show feeling like their heart is lighter than when they came in, then I’ll feel like my job is done.”

Laying a magnetic foundation with her stripped-back 2021 EP ‘A Thing I’d Hate To Change’, her strikingly honest and aching debut single ‘Foreigner’ and her recent magically powerful live recording ‘The Mill’, Saint Victoire highlights the synergy she shares with her bandmates as a career highlight.

“We have so much fun wherever we are. They are really such a blessing to me,” she expresses gratefully. “I often hear women speaking about their bad experiences being female in the music industry, and so being surrounded by these guys who support me so much, never patronise me, get excited about whatever vision I share with them and help me realise it, is amazing. They are gold, and so incredibly talented. I don’t feel like I deserve to get to work with them, but I do, and that’s just my biggest highlight.”

Surrounded by a supportive team, Saint Victoire navigates the challenges of the music industry with resilience and determination.

Looking ahead, Saint Victoire is excited about upcoming projects, including the release of her single ‘Basically, I’m just sad’ and a series of live recordings. It’s performing live though that truly ignites her passion and fuels her creative fire.

“I could just be addicted to the dopamine of performing, but I have seen artists live before where it’s as if they have that ‘something else’ which can’t really be quantified or explained,” she muses.

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Driven by the electrifying energy of live performances, Saint Victoire pours her heart and soul into each moment on stage, aiming to create a transcendent experience for her audience. “It’s like the transmission of some kind of ecstasy, where I feel truly electric and alive and the audience receives that,” she explains.

With her unwavering dedication and unmistakable talent, she is undoubtedly an artist to watch, poised to leave an indelible mark on the industry.

Listen to Saint Victoire here.

Pratts & Pain: Royel Otis’ debut album is a pensive and reclusive melancholic daydream

It feels like a Royel Otis’ full-length album has been a long time coming. In actuality, it hasn’t – the guitar pop duo have just made such a huge impact in their short tenure that their debut has been incredibly long awaited by many.

And it’s for good reason. Their first three EP’s have almost redefined the sound of the Australian indie rock scene, adding layers of sensitivity to a genre that for years had ultimately been carved by Ocean Alley and Sticky Fingers’ easy-going, ‘everything’s chill’ approach.

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

Sure, they still maintain a laid-back approach, and their record does lean into guitar-driven melodies and chilled summery choruses, but unlike Ocean Alley, Royel Otis are certainly not ‘all about confidence, baby.’

Their debut LP, Pratts & Pain, is a pensive and reclusive melancholic daydream that offers up a whole lot of tender reflection on personal experiences, love, loss, and their perspective on the world.

As explored in ‘Sonic Blue’, which ties in electronic percussion and rhythmic darkwave post-punk elements, Royel Otis were the kids who were written off as weirdos by the jocks, but the cause of envy amongst the artsy crowd. As a result, their outlook, both sonically and lyrically, is wise beyond its years.

A slacker anthem that melds equal parts punk edge and sensitivity, ‘Fried Rice’ explores the inability to leave in the face of love, and the damaging effects staying can have on oneself, while standout ‘Sofa King’ explores feelings of worthlessness in the face of love. ‘Molly’ sees the group toy with static-y psych-rock dissonance, meandering tambourines, and eerie melodies while unpacking drug experimentation and how it’s a short-term fix to mental health issues.

However, storytelling is only one facet of the group’s charm. Pratts & Pain’s most endearing quality comes from its effortless ability to reroute its sound without ever needing to show it off. By toying with minor subtleties, key changes and minute changeups, the group alter their sound so thoughtfully that more often than not, you don’t even notice how different the song is from its predecessor until it’s over.

They just get it. They don’t need to do anything flashy, they just keep tightly to what will benefit the song. So much so that it seems like there’s not a moment on the whole album where lead singer Otis Pavlovic utilises more than 40% of his vocal capabilities, instead keeping to what works in the best interests of the song to consequentially deliver his vocals with an effortlessly cool nonchalant demeanour.

Royel Otis became leaders of the loners for a reason, and Pratts & Pain only further showcases why the group’s easy-listening, yet discerning tunes have quickly resonated with so many.

Pratts & Pain is out now. Listen to it here.

‘The Road to Patagonia’ comes to regional Victoria in a special run of Q&A screenings with filmmakers

Venturing beyond the confines of conventional filmmaking, The Road to Patagonia embarks on a journey that transcends geographical boundaries and delves deep into the human spirit. This captivating documentary, hailed as a surf/travel/environmental love story, has been captivating audiences worldwide for the past six months, earning accolades and adoration at prestigious film festivals.

Directed by the talented Matty Hannon and produced by Never Never Studios, The Road to Patagonia follows an extraordinary solo odyssey undertaken by Hannon himself. From the rugged terrain of Alaska to the pristine shores of Patagonia, Hannon’s motorcycle journey promises adventure and self-discovery. However, fate takes an unexpected turn, shattering his plans and leading him to an encounter that changes everything.

Stay up to date with what’s happening within the region’s art scene here.

The documentary beautifully unfolds as Hannon crosses paths with Heather Hillier, a permaculture farmer who shares his passion for exploration. Together, they embark on a transformative journey, swapping motorbikes for horseback rides, and encountering a myriad of cultures and landscapes along the way. From encounters with Zapatista rebels to discussions with Amazonian shamans, their expedition becomes a testament to human resilience and the enduring bond between mankind and nature.

Critics and audiences alike have showered The Road to Patagonia with praise, with filmmaker Damon Gameau hailing it as “beautiful” and “wonderful.” The film has also received numerous awards, including Best Film and Best Documentary at the Byron Bay International Film Festival, as well as Audience Choice awards at the Florida Surf Film Festival and Melbourne Documentary Film Festival.

For those eager to experience this cinematic masterpiece firsthand, regional Victoria is set to host special Q&A screenings with filmmakers Matty Hannon and Heather Hillier. The tour kicks off at the Pivotonian Theatre in Geelong on Sunday, March 17, with additional screenings in Lorne and Warrnambool. Due to popular demand, encore screenings have been announced for April, promising more opportunities to immerse oneself in the magic of The Road to Patagonia.

The Road to Patagonia – A Journey of Discovery and Connection

Geelong:

Location: Pivotonian Theatre
Date: Sunday, March 17
Time: 6pm/8pm (SOLD OUT), Encore Screening on Sunday, April 7 at 7.15pm/9pm

Lorne:

Location: Lorne Theatre
Date: Friday, March 22
Time: 6pm

Warrnambool:

Location: Capitol Cinema
Date: Saturday, March 23
Time: 6.30pm

Don’t miss this chance to embark on a cinematic journey unlike any other, where love, adventure, and the wonders of the natural world converge in perfect harmony. Join Matty Hannon and Heather Hillier as they share their insights, inspirations, and behind-the-scenes stories, offering audiences a unique glimpse into the making of this extraordinary film.

For tickets and more information, visit the official website here.

Geelong Arts Centre announce the brave and bold Creative Engine grant recipients for 2024

The grants, totalling up to $16,000 in financial support alongside $30,000 worth of studio access at the iconic Ryrie Street building and Merge coworking space, aim to empower individuals and organisations in forging new and innovative works, pushing boundaries, and advancing contemporary arts practices.

Spanning across various artistic domains such as traditional and experimental theatre, music, dance, and comedy, the selected projects have been chosen based on their alignment with the program’s core criteria: Connection, Innovation, and Thoughtfulness.

Stay up to date with what’s happening within the region’s art scene here.

This round’s recipients include:

Ignition Recipients

Pride and Prejudice by Bloomshed: A daring adaptation of the classic tale, reimagining it for modern times, exploring themes of class, power, and gender roles.
Parasail by Kath Dolheguy: An original theatre piece delving into class, neurodiversity, and parental abandonment, set against the backdrop of Geelong across different time periods.

Jump Start Recipients

NOW: A Life Story by Fiona Luca: Grounded in verbatim interviews with elderly Geelong residents, this project aims to capture diverse life stories through various art forms, offering a poignant reflection on life.
Cabaret of Calm by Helen Duncan: A playful exploration of movement and self-care practices in an increasingly wellness-oriented society.

Place to Make Recipients

Song Birds by Gorgi Coghlan and Anna-lee Robertson: An immersive concert experience weaving nostalgia and wisdom through a blend of eclectic songs.
Comedy Victoria by Luke Morris: A not-for-profit initiative supporting comedy writers, producers, and performers, fostering a network within Geelong and Western Victoria.
The Things We Hold Dear by Catherine Holder (Next Tuesday Theatre): An exploration of hoarding as a mental health issue, delving into the emotional attachments formed with objects.
Foreigner by Amelia Vu: A short dance film capturing the essence of unfamiliarity in a foreign land, expressed through improvised movement.

Reflecting on the selection process, Senior Producer Nicole La Bianca expressed gratitude for the depth of talent showcased in the applications, indicating a promising future for Geelong’s creative community.

“It is a privilege to witness the depth of talent and vulnerability seeded throughout the dynamic catalogue of applications. The submissions showcased the region’s remarkable local talent and emerging projects, indicating a promising future for Geelong’s creative communities.”

Geelong Arts Centre’s Creative Engine, now in its fifth year, continues to invest in emerging projects, with forthcoming initiatives set to be unveiled throughout the year.

Stay updated on the latest developments at Geelong Arts Centre’s Creative Engine here and subscribing to the e-newsletter.

The Scoop: Your Bite-Sized Guide to Geelong’s Food and Drink Scene

Just like a perfectly crafted dish, we’re here to serve up the juiciest tidbits and most delicious details on all things culinary in our beloved city.

From trendy cafes to hidden gem eateries, and from craft breweries to cocktail hotspots, The Scoop is your go-to source for staying in the know about the latest and greatest in Geelong’s gastronomic world. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for your next favorite spot, we’ve got you covered with our bite-sized servings of all the best local news.

So, grab a fork, raise a glass and never miss a beat – or a bite – of what our city has to offer:

Melbourne’s 400 Gradi teams up with Great Ocean Road Brewing to create two iconic beers

400 Gradi, celebrated for its authentic Italian fare and award-winning pizza, has ventured into brewing with founder Johnny Di Francesco curating a bespoke beer selection to impeccably complement his renowned pizzas.

The newly launched Gradi Draught and Gradi Bionda Birra are easy-drinking beers that have been crafted to pair perfectly with customers’ favourite Italian dishes – and in particular, Neapolitan pizza. Crafted in collaboration with Great Ocean Road Brewing, the Gradi Bionda Birra is a refreshing mid- strength summer ale, with a crisp taste and smooth finish. The Gradi Draught is an easy-drinking lager that offers notes of freshly baked bread complemented by subtle hints of light floral hops.

The lager is now available at 400 Gradi locations in Brunswick, Crown, Mornington, Eastland, Essendon and Norwood. Find out more via 400 Gradi or Great Ocean Road Brewing.