Regional & Remote Music Summit Adds Ben Lee, New Talks and Live Shows
The second round of sessions for the Regional & Remote Music Summit has been announced.
Set for Byron Bay from July 23rd–25th, the MusicNSW-hosted event will focus on building tours and festivals under the theme ‘Strengthening Regional Music Communities’.
New sessions will explore touring networks, music policy, venue sustainability, and cultural tourism. Organisers say the program is designed to give music workers practical tools and connections to help grow the sector. Full details and tickets are at regionalmusicsummit.com.
The Summit begins with Calling Country, led by Rhoda Roberts AO, to honour the Bundjalung peoples. Musician and podcast host Ben Lee will speak about life on the road, and NSW’s Minister for Music, John Graham, will deliver a keynote on building a strong music and night-time economy. Green Music Australia will also launch its new Venue Sustainability Health Check Report.
There’s plenty happening beyond the talks. A late-night Little Bands showcase, curated by Mario Fraietta (Howl & Moan Records) and Stuart Grant, will highlight local talent and community spirit. The Summit closes with live sets from regional artists at Dashville Does The Bowlo.
New sessions include:
Ben Lee on Touring
With 20 solo albums and many side projects, Ben Lee brings stories and humour to a session on the ups and downs of touring, and why building scenes in regional areas matters.
In Conversation: John Graham & Jane Slingo
NSW’s Minister for Music, The Hon. John Graham MLC, will speak with Jane Slingo (VibeLab) about how policy can support live music and the night-time economy across cities and regions.
Touring Networks & Cultural Exchange
Rhoda Roberts AO, David Bridie (Wantok Musik), Letisha Ackland (Balya Productions) and Mark Smith (MusicNT) discuss how partnerships can help build strong touring networks.
Music is the Destination
A look at music as a draw for tourism and local storytelling, with speakers from Dark Mofo, Tamworth Country Music Festival, Queensland Music Festival and OK Motels.
Venue Sustainability Health Check Launch
Green Music Australia shares its new report on how venues can reduce emissions, save money and lead on climate action.
Dashville Does The Bowlo
A closing show with Magpie Diaries, Mylee Grace, Johnston City, Piper Butcher and more. Entry is free for Summit delegates.
For full dates, times, locations and tickets, visit regionalmusicsummit.com.