Lake Macquarie’s musicians, bands, and live music venues are being called to join the newly launched Lake Mac Live and Local program, aimed at invigorating the local music scene.
The initiative encourages artists, venues, and businesses to register for a variety of activities, including professional development workshops, micro-music festivals, and an industry forum. The program promises to deliver national best-practice strategies to strengthen the local music ecosystem through better regulation and policy support.
“The Lake Macquarie Live and Local program is designed to showcase, support and celebrate the unique mix of local musicians and bands in our region,” Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Arts, Culture and Tourism Jacqui Hemsley said.
“It’s also an opportunity to further activate local performance spaces and help us develop better regulation and strategic policy for live music in Lake Mac.”
The program kicks off with an Industry Forum on Monday, 14 October, from 6-9 pm at Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba. This event, facilitated by the Federally funded Live Music Office, will offer a platform for musicians, venue owners, and other stakeholders to share ideas on enhancing live music opportunities in the region. Attendees will discuss how to better utilize venues, parks, and public spaces to activate Lake Macquarie’s streetscapes with vibrant, local talent.
One of the core elements of the Live and Local program is its inclusivity, opening the door for everyone from emerging bands to established artists, as well as businesses interested in hosting live performances.
The program offers participants a chance to collaborate and innovate ways to support and expand the region’s live music offerings. Organizers hope this approach will strengthen community ties while providing more performance opportunities for local talent.
In addition to the workshops and forums, Live and Local will establish a Creative Business Directory for Lake Macquarie, designed to help musicians and venues connect, book, and promote live music events. This directory is set to be a crucial tool in fostering a more cohesive and accessible live music scene, linking artists with the spaces and audiences they need to thrive.
If you’re interested in getting involved you can find out more by visiting arts.lakemac.com.au.
