Budding young musicians and rockstars in the making will get a new Music Hub in Newcastle to jam and record if Labor is elected.
This election is a choice between a Shorten Labor Government with a plan for vibrant local communities, or more cuts and chaos from the Liberals.
Senator Kristina Keneally joined Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon to announce the funding for a Music Hub in Newcastle on behalf of Shadow Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke.
Senator Keneally said Atwea College had been awarded $350,000 to create a rehearsal area, live performance space and recording studio at The Creative Arts Space on Beaumont Street, Hamilton.
“The facilities will be accessible to community members and disadvantaged young people who don’t have access to anywhere they can practice,” Senator Keneally said.
“This funding will allow for soundproofing and electrical works, upgraded lighting and a stage extension. It will also fund some fabulous new equipment like speakers, amps and instruments.”
Ms Claydon said the project was a perfect fit for Newcastle.
“Live music has long been the lifeblood of Newcastle, but it’s getting harder and harder for young people to find the space to hone their skills,” Ms Claydon said.
“Atwea will also provide professional musicians who will be on hand to give mentoring, training and support to the next generation of artists and to connect them to Newcastle’s music community.”
Atwea College Executive Director Rowan Cox said the funding would help foster Newcastle’s music culture and provide much-needed updates to the Creative Arts Space in Hamilton.
“The Newcastle Music Hub will give young Novocastrians access to professional equipment and give them the skills and experience to pursue their musical ambitions,” Ms Cox said.
“The jam spaces and recording studios will be available for young members of the community to book time in. In the recording studio, they will be offered supervision and support by Atwea trainers. Atwea also plans to restart Open Mic Nights and Battle of the Bands to create more opportunities for live performances for local artists.”
Music Hub funding is provided under Labor’s Soundtrack Australia policy – the most comprehensive contemporary music policy by an Australian Government.
From encouraging more Australian children to learn and play music, to assisting young bands reach overseas markets, to more support for live music and ensuring fans aren’t being ripped off when they buy tickets – Labor wants to see more Australians making music, listening to music, and seeing live music.
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