The New South Wales Government has teamed up with ARIA to announce Great Southern Nights, a major statewide event bringing 1000 COVID-safe gigs to regional and metropolitan areas in NSW this November.
The major initiative is set to take place this November, and will see performances from artists such as Jimmy Barnes, Paul Kelly, Tash Sultana, Missy Higgins, The Teskey Brothers, The Jungle Giants, Tones & I, Thelma Plum, The Veronicas, The Presets, Birds Of Tokyo, Amy Shark and more.
Although specific details on the event are yet to be released, the NSW Government have opened submissions for venues and artists to enter an expression of interest to get involved in Great Southern Nights, noting that “all events will be programmed in line with current Government health advice regarding physical distancing and venue capacity with respect to public gatherings.”
In a statement shared today, Stuart Ayres, Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney, applauded the initiative, saying that “This celebration of outstanding Australian artists and incredible live music venues across NSW gives us all something to look forward to, from event-goers to industry.”
“We’ll be able to get out and see Sydney and regional NSW come to life with some of Australia’s top acts including Jimmy Barnes, Paul Kelly, Missy Higgins and Tones and I alongside emerging artists in unexpected places. We’re inviting venues across NSW, from the bush to the city, to nominate to be involved in this exciting new event.
“With the NSW Government’s 24-hour economy strategy set to reinvigorate Sydney’s nightlife, Great Southern Nights will be a big step forward for our state’s live music and hospitality community that has been hit hard in recent times.”
ARIA CEO Dan Rosen also contributed to the statement, declaring “We’re proud to create this opportunity for Australian musicians, and help bring back the live music scene right across NSW.
“Live music events bring visitors, culture and excitement to communities. This initiative will provide an invaluable boost for the artists, crew, venues and music community that make gigs happen.”
Great Southern Nights – Land of 1000 Gigs from Destination NSW on Vimeo.
Find out more about Great Southern Nights via their website. If you’re an artist or venue that wants to get involved, you can register your expression of interest here.
Written by Will Brewster via Mixdown Magazine.
