Board changes at Music SA & Melbourne Fringe

The live sector might be in hibernation but a lot of activity continues behind the scenes.

Joining Music SA’s board are:

Deb Edwards, a music and arts publicist and events coordinator for the Adelaide Superloop 500 concert series and country music artists Troy Cassar-Daley and Adam Harvey. 

A proud Yankunytjatjara woman, Edwards also acts for First Nations artists as dance troupe Djuki Mala and is PR consultant to Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute in Adelaide.

Chartered accountant and tax adviser Tim Haslam who serves as the new treasurer, and also worked at with Falls/Splendour promoter Secret Sounds Group. 

Commercial lawyer Angus Crawford who will serve as secretary, plays with The Montreals and managed events at Fat Controller Club.

“They are all highly skilled practitioners with plenty to offer our local music scene, already contributing to our stellar reputation as a UNESCO City of Music,” Music SA general manager Kim Roberts said.

“Things are tough at the moment for our industry, but we are looking toward the future and finding ways to support SA artists and the wider local industry.”

Melbourne Fringe has appointed three new directors – Joel Bray, Rupert Sherwood and Sonia Lindsay – to its board.

Melbourne-based artist, Joel Bray is a proud Wiradjuri man who trained at NAISDA and WAAPA and is a performer with Chunky Move.

Sonia Lindsay has 20 years’ experience in HR, change and management in the arts sector, not for profit organisations, government, and the private sector. 

She works at her own consulting practice as a change strategist and management coach, as well as pursuing her passion for community development in Melbourne’s western suburbs. 

Rupert Sherwood is a fundraising professional working in marketing, corporate partnerships, and philanthropy in an arts context. 

He worked with organisations including the Melbourne International Arts Festival and the Australian Youth Orchestra and currently director of development at Melbourne Theatre Company. 

“They bring a wealth of experience and talent, from strategic thinking, to fundraising, to human resources, to community development, to creating acclaimed First Nations art works,” Melbourne Fringe chair Sam Strong said of the new appointees.

“They are united by their commitment to the spirit of Fringe – its championing of diverse voices and independent artists.

“It is a watershed moment for the performing arts as we all navigate the challenges posed by COVID-19. 

“With (their) addition, Melbourne Fringe is even better placed to sustain Victorian creativity through 2020, 2021 and as we move toward our 40th year in 2022.”