Blank GC issue 45 - June 2017

June '17

issue #045

MUSIC

FOOD

ART

LIFESTYLE

MUSIC

Phoebe Sinclair James St Preachers Sofar Sounds Battle of the Bands Beth Orton

Rumi De Vito's Pomeroy's Coffee SoPo Dining Room Burleigh BBQ

Ben Allmon Linda Klarfeld Reuben Stocks Women Like Us New 19Karen Artists

Stand Up Paddleboarding The Emotional Body Marriage Equality Mudgeeraba Show Festival Footprints

Bigsound Australian Music Week Daniel Champagne Bligh Frenzal Rhomb

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High-voltage Gold Coast funklords Electrik Lemonade have been writing and performing solidly for the last seven years.

Countless festivals, several TV appearances and three EPs later, this nine-piece ensemble is still on full charge, with more recorded music in the works and a couple of headline performances just around the corner. Hard on the heels of their appearance at the 2017 Gold Coast Music Awards and finalist placing for Song of the Year, guitarist and violinist Jakey D sat down with Blank GC to chat about the musical evolution of the Gold Coast’s favourite musical energy drink.

“I think we consolidated our sound intentionally, yet still unintentionally, if that even makes sense?” says Jakey.

“At the end of the day we'll always be a funk-hiphop act that's known for playing after-parties.”

Speaking of, the Gold Coast Music Awards (GCMA) event organisers felt Electrik Lemonade was the perfect choice to get some boogie happening at this year’s after-party, held at the Surfers Paradise Beergarden. A role the guys relished, according to Jakey.

“It was a proud moment, knowing that we were part of the special burgeoning music scene that is the Gold Coast.

“It was a very exciting occasion to be a part of and what a brilliant location to have it.”

We Know This was the group’s entry into the Song of the Year category at the 2017 GCMAs, making it through to the coveted finalist stage.

“The best part of being nominated for the music awards was seeing all the talent that we are surrounded by and who we share this scene with,” reflects Jake.

Produced and recorded by Brad Hosking (also the trumpet player) at Blind Boy Studios and mastered by local legend Paul Blakey, We Know This is, frankly, a banger.

“To say people go nuts to that song live is a complete understatement,” says Jakey.

“We wanted to write an anthem, something that we imagine our fans

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singing back to us at the top of their lungs at live shows and that is exactly what we got.”

The world of radio concurs, with You Know This receiving plenty of air play, even landing Electrik Lemonade a support opening for LA hip-hop legends Ozomatli late last year. Given the track’s subject matter, the band is slightly surprised by the depth of its commercial exposure.

“The tune is a brutally honest ode to a not-soillicit substance that's influenced the band in different ways over the years. I guess you could say we felt the need to write a good 'weed song'”, explains Jakey.

The genre of the track is hard to pin down, with hip-hop, funk (of course!), reggae and Cuban salsa all making an appearance. The chorus “Don’t tell us, we know this, just sit back and smoke this. Relax, lose focus, we’re getting lost in Mary Jane,” has a tendency to get stuck in the head for days. The message is fairly clear, thinks Jakey.

“It can only represent that feeling or something most, but all should chase in life, the need to escape the reality of life's commitments and experience that little something more.”

The band’s members know plenty about juggling life’s commitments, with all of the guys holding down regular day jobs on top of their frequent musical engagements.

“Even though we'd all love to kick back during the week and live off the band funds, it's pretty unrealistic in today's day and age of original music, especially in a nine-piece band,” Jakey explains.

“We've averaged about 2-4 gigs a month over the past few years. Even if one member is away travelling, the stage still looks bloody full with eight members up there!”

And with a nine-piece band, you can be guaranteed to have one member either away, or busy, especially when it comes to regular rehearsals. Jake expands on the issues faced with having such a large group.

“Sometimes I wish we were all Goro's offspring from Mortal Combat with four arms each to juggle our stupidly busy schedule. It's suuuper tricky to get all nine members together at any given time, besides on the weekends which are normally eaten up by gigging. When we do get together there's a lot of new ideas to share and unfortunately, having so many members in one room, this can also be quite unproductive getting everyone to try and write.”

Nonetheless, writing is what is currently happening.

“We've got a new weekly schedule where we organise just a few select members together each week to write.

“For example, it may be drums, bass and keys this week, keys bass and guitar next week, we'll even hang a few mics and hit record and only work on one or two new grooves at a time until we feel it's ready to introduce the next batch of members.”

We’re exhausted just thinking about it. However this approach to writing is clearly working for Electrik Lemonade, with several songs nearing completion.

“We're very close to the pre-production stage of our full length debut album”, announces Jakey.

(No doubt to cheers from excited fans.)

“We already have roughly an EP's worth of tunes set aside with a handful of newer ones on the horizon coming together very quickly too!”

The guys are taking every gig up for grabs to test out some of their newer efforts, and with the Gold Coast original music scene growing every day, there is no shortage of opportunities.

“There's so many creative precincts and venues popping up on what feels like a monthly basis,” says Jakey.

“We're actually really stoked to be a part of, and somewhat well known in and around our little coastal town.”

While the band’s line-up may have changed over the years, Jakey believes each member has brought something to the group.

“It's been an awesome experience working with such a diverse group of guys over the years who share a common love. We really play off each other's differences and complement each other's phasings and influences within our live shows.”

The current line-up comprises: Barney Trub, Muffins, Funky G, Jakey D, Donny Lee, Sam Parker, Brad Hosking, Toan Le-Vo, Max Parker and Timothy Hyde. Jakey believes they’ve got the right mix.

“It's definitely taken a few years to solidify the line-up that we are today, that's for sure. Saying that, I think we've finally done it though!

“It's true that like-minded people attract each other, and in our case, even though we come from very diverse backgrounds, upbringings, and influences, we were all united by our love of performing music and the musical vision that we could achieve with this ever growing band.

“Over the years that allowed us to pick up members that filled out the band in the right way, each person being one more facet to the raw gem we want EL to be.”

Interview by Samantha Morris, Story by Natalie O'Driscoll

YOU CAN CATCH THIS “RAW GEM” WHEN THEY HIT MIAMI MARKETTA ON 24 JUNE OR AS THEY HEADLINE THE CLOSING GIG OF LIVE AT BOND ON 22 JULY.

Image: Argon Photography

LIVE IN THE PADDOCK

TICKETED SHOWS

JUNE GIG GUIDE

SAFIA 17TH JUNE SATURDAY

FRIDAY 2ND JUNE JAKE FOX | CADENCE SOPHIA KOOP | LIVVIA

FRIDAY 16TH JUNE AGWA | LARA FREW PHOEBE SINCLAIR

SATURDAY 3RD JUNE JONNY TAYLOR CASEY BARNES

SATURDAY 17TH JUNE* THE SCREAMING JETS & BABY ANIMALS

FRIDAY 9TH JUNE ATHENA JOY | HAZEL MEI JOSH KING

FRIDAY 23RD JUNE ALL AGES QUARTERFEST THE VANNS

SATURDAY 10TH JUNE THE WILDBLOODS DAZY WILSON JACOB LEE

SATURDAY 24TH JUNE KIMBAL IMAZ

BABY ANIMALS & THE SCREAMING JETS FRIDAY 18TH AUGUST

STAN WALKER CHE FU & THE CRATES FRIDAY 1ST SEPTEMBER

‘A FIST FULL OF ROCK’ HOODOO GURUS, YOU AM I JEBEDIAH, ADALITA WEDNESDAY 22ND NOVEMBER

UB40

nightquarter.com.au

*free entertainment unless specified as a ticketed event

1800 264 448

FRIDAY 30TH JUNE DANIEL CHAMPAGNE HARRY J HART

town centre drive, helensvale

point

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Image: Peter Wheeler Photography

All-time lineup hits Shark Bar Hobo Magic has a passion for the sacred groove, with music resonating on a level beyond this realm. You can join the spiritual revolution when they hit Miami Shark Bar this Sunday with heavy blues merchants Elegant Shiva, Gold Coast Music Awards after-party rock stars Trapdoor and Brisbane-based altprog rockers Dangerpenny also on the lineup.

They hit the Shark Bar this Sunday 4 June and entry is only $5.

Leading Youth Music Industry Gathering Returns Presented by QMusic and Brisbane City Council, Little BIGSOUND returns in 2017 with a totally revamped program and showcase event on Saturday 29 July, offering a handson, one-day experience for 15 – 25 year olds looking to gain real life skills, meet industry experts and discover their local music scene. In a program to be revealed in the coming weeks, Little BIGSOUND will bring together local booking agents, record labels, artists, venue owners, producers and digital marketing experts to help participants get their first gigs, publicise their music, improve their songwriting/music production and build relationships needed to work in the music industry. It all culminates in a free, all-ages gig with headliners also to be revealed soon. Applications are now open via QMusic’s Little BIGSOUND website and artists under 25 are encouraged to apply.

Third year’s a charm for Maroochy Music & Visual Arts Festival The heart of the Sunshine Coast will beat loudly this August as the Maroochy Music & Visual Arts Festival (MMVAF) comes to life for the third year. On Saturday August 26 the natural amphitheater of the New Maroochydore CBD will see the likes of Alison Wonderland, The Presets, Bernard Fanning and Gang of Youths grace the stage. And when we say the stage, there is but one, which means you won’t miss a single act while at the festival. A line-up rich with home talent, you can also catch Horrorshow, Anna of the North, Northeast Party House, Skeggs, Mallrat, Billy Davis & The Good Lords and OKBadlands. Street art from international and local artists will also feature alongside light installations and giant inflatables. Held on the greens of a former golf course, the tree-lined festival site provides an impressive canvas for installations from Lucas Salton, Design Lab & Tiamco, Beastman and Frank & Mimi, just to name a few. Tickets are on sale now. Visit mmvaf.com for more details.

Gold Coast’s best hit Peak Festival this winter Cheap Fakes, Electrik Lemonade, Freddy Flyfingaz, Hussy Hicks and Tijuana Cartel join a stellar cast of performers at this year’s Peak Festival which takes place 9 – 12 June. Peak is Australia’s coolest music festival and package deals are available from $108 per person per night (twin share), which includes the festival, accommodation, breakfast, night skiing and scenic chair lift rides. More at peakfestival.com. au/2017-accommodation.

Shakas all-round

Hoodoo Gurus, You Am I, Jebediah and Adalita headed for the Gold Coast An incredible lineup of Aussie rock legends will be hitting NightQuarter on 1 September as part of an epic east coast tour. A Fist Full Of Rock last week announced the stellar 2017 line-up touring the country this August and September with shows in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Gold Coast and Brisbane. The Hoodoo Gurus and You Am I have been sharing stages for the last 25 years from New York to Nambucca Heads, and boast nineteen acclaimed studio albums between them, most of which reached the upper echelons of the charts and went gold or platinum. The Hoodoo Gurus have been synonymous with Aussie rock since their debut single, 30 years ago and You Am I made history when they were the first Australian act to release three successive albums that debuted at Number 1 on the ARIA charts. Alt-rock stalwarts Jebediah have been on the scene on and off since 1994 and Magic Dirt frontwoman and now-solo performer Adalita tours regularly with massive international acts and rock festivals around Australia. The show hits NightQuarter on 1 September and tickets are on sale now via nightquarter.com.au.

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As Shakafest celebrates its second year, Gold Coasters are frothing at the lineup. Second release early-bird tickets have already sold out and the 18 August event is shaping up to be a highlight on the local music calendar. The oneday mini-festival is part of Grinspoons national comeback tour and features DZ Deathrays and Butterfingers on the lineup as well. Tired Lion, Ivan Ooze, Goons of Doom, WAAX and local legends Trapdoor and Radolescent are also on the lineup. Shaakfest includes skate, street culture, food and more and takes place 18 August at the Miami Tavern Precinct and there are still a handful of general release tickets left.

An after-party has also been announced and tickets are available separately for that event.

Best hurry though.

Australian Music Week passes on sale Australian Music Week has established itself as an event to watch on the global stage, and the music summit is back in its home of Cronulla Beach in Sydney, with passes for the conference and shows on sale now. The three day event, held 1 - 3 November, includes conference sessions, networking events and live shows. Australian Music Week aims to bring together industry professionals, artists and music lovers from all over Australia and the world to network, learn, and celebrate the latest in music of all genres in a relaxed and friendly environment. This year's event will see AMW partner once more with Folk Alliance Australia and The Americana Association of Australia, who will host their annual conference and showcasing events as part of Australian Music Week. Applications to showcase close 17 July and all ticket types are available now through presenting partner, Oztix.

Opera Australia offers GC vocalists chance of a lifetime Hanlon Brothers’ new visual offering Following two massive shows at Gold Coast Music Awards and Surfers Paradise LIVE festival last month, Australia's award-winning urban outfit Hanlon Brothers released their music video debut for their exceptional track Diamonds. "The Diamonds video is quirky and a bit left of field, but that reflects what people have come to expect from us," said drummer, Saia Hanlon from the band's hometown of Burleigh. Filmed at Swingin' Safari on the Gold Coast, where the boys first formed in 2012 following their popular live improv nights, the video is more of a short film than a traditional music clip. "We love Japanese anime, so we brainstormed with PUNCH.LIFE how we could get Japan, Diamonds, home (Burleigh) and music all in one video. Naturally, it had to be set in a karaoke lounge. We had so much fun making it." An Urban and Regional Song of the Year finalist at last month's Queensland Music Awards, Diamonds is a quintessential Hanlon Brothers track featuring their signature RnB grooves and jazz improvisations but a deeper story told with the full conviction of a 42-bar rap verse by Roman MC. You can check the video out at bit.ly/hanlonvid.

The Arts Centre Gold Coast will present ten local students for consideration for one of four scholarships to spend a week with Opera Australia in Sydney all expenses paid. Each of the ten students chosen to audition will receive feedback from Opera Australia’s Chorus Master and auditions will be held Monday 17 and Tuesday 18 July. Applications are open through Opera Australia’s website. The scholarship includes return air travel and accommodation in Sydney, music, acting and movement workshops, vocal coaching, tickets to an Opera Australia performance and back-stage tour of the Sydney Opera House as well as the chance to perform an aria for Opera Australia’s Artistic Director. More at theartscentregc.com.au/ regional-student-scholarship.

MAKING MUSIC VISUAL

PHOEBE PLAYS THE KITCHENS AT ROBINA TOWN CENTRE ON FRIDAY 2 JUNE, NIGHTQUARTER ON FRIDAY 16 JUNE, MUDGEERABA SHOW ON 24 JUNE AND BRISBANE CITY SOUNDS ON 14 JULY.

Phoebe Sinclair

Phoebe Sinclair’s ambient, electronic tunes and haunting vocals have struck a chord her listeners and the music industry alike. A finalist in the Gold Coast Music Awards, and part of Griffith University’s SEED program, Phoebe is looking at evolving her sound with a focus on electronica and has recently been featured on a new track by Nashville artist and producer KELLR. She caught up with our Editor, Samantha Morris, ahead of appearances at NightQuarter and the Mudgeeraba Show this month.

Congrats on being a GC Music Awards finalist for Video of the Year for 'This isn't Love'. How did it feel to be standing alongside such high quality acts?

Being a finalist at the Gold Coast Music Awards full stop was incredible! To then take a look at the absolutely stellar artists I was up there with was both surreal and humbling.

The video was a labour of love and to have it recognised was moving.

Can you tell me about the video's creation?

The video was made with a small crew, the mastermind behind it being the excellent Phillip Choi, a then-Gold Coast based indie filmmaker. Together Phil and I drafted the storyline, collected supplies from junkyards, practiced putting a leaf blower to my face and put together a team to shoot our clip.

We shot most of the video in one day, with Phil collecting the rest of the external footage from around the Gold Coast afterwards.

As I mentioned earlier, it was a labour of love. With very little budget, a tiny crew of friends helping friends and plenty of complex creative ideas; it took patience, an excellent group of people and heart to complete.

How important is it to have a strong video to accompany your music?

Music is an incredibly visual experience for me. It is rare that I will write, or hear a song and not have visual elements come to mind whilst listening to it. It can be something as small a certain colour scheme coming to mind, to something as elaborate as a complex feature film story line! It is an integral part of my music, and my connecting with my audience. It further helps them to see what I see, feel how I feel and generally engage in my music.

You told me recently that you're looking at leaning towards an electronic vibe rather than an alt-pop one. Tell me about that transition.

Well, I have always loved electronic pop music but I was always a little scared to jump into that realm due to a lack of know-how when it comes to producing electronic music.

However I decided that just because I didn't know, didn't mean I couldn't learn and find others to help me make this leap. I am lucky enough to be working with Lantana Crunch, who remixed my second single 'Mine' from my EP 'Sentiment', and together we have

been crafting my sound into this excellent blend of electronic - alternative pop and I couldn't be more happy.

You have some new songs you've been working on. Are these songs more electronic than pop?

I have been writing lots! It's always an interesting process when it comes to the genre of my tracks, because often they will start with just my voice and keys or a guitar.

Then I take it to Lantana Crunch, and my team, and we will adapt, add and inspire new ideas in the songwriting. The new track I'm working on is quite electronic, I have been absolutely awestruck by vocal sampling, processing vocals in unique ways and SYNTHS (oh my goodness... synths), but the songwriting itself is still supported by my pop history and fits itself nicely into this little electronic-alternative niche.

You're a SEED artist and showcasing soon at NightQuarter. Tell me about the SEED program and what it means for emerging artists on the Gold Coast?

getting my act together. I became a SEED artist in 2015, two years later I am still supported by this incredible program, still learning from the opportunities it provides and so proud to be a part of its wonderful network of artists. The SEED program is so supportive, it provides its artists with so many opportunities to grow; through performance showcases, mastermind workshops, industry insight and feedback on any music or industry aspect you might need help with. I am forever grateful for the help that Hannah Morrison, the SEED Events and Special Projects Officer, and Griffith University's Conservatorium of Music has so lovingly given me.

What’s on the horizon?

I am featured on a new track called Rumours released by Nashville artist and producer KELLR. I had the honour of connecting with KELLR whilst in the States, upon my arrival back home I wrote and recorded vocals for his latest single. You can download this track for free on Triple J Unearthed and be sure to let me know what you think!

The SEED program is absolutely excellent and I truly believe I have it to thank for www.blankgc.com.au

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THE WILDBLOODS They completed several east coast tours in 2014 and 2015, building momentum around their self-titled EP, and now Sydney’s The Wildbloods are set to hit the road again, celebrating forthcoming album All the Adversity and new single Red Box. Samantha Morris fired off a few questions to the band ahead of their NightQuarter appearance this month.

Tell me about The Wildbloods.

Juke: We are an indie rock band based out of Sydney. We sound similar to the likes of The Kooks, Catfish and the Bottlemen and Circa Waves except with lyrics sung in an Aussie accent. We absolutely love playing live and cannot wait till the next tour starts!

Your full-length album All The Adversity is about to drop. How do you feel about the release? Any major lessons learned through the recording / production process?

Justin: We feel excited more than anything.

We gave our all to each and every song on this album and can't wait to show the world what we've been up to. On the other hand we also feel curious as to what people will think of it. A lot of the songs are different to the happy-go-lucky vibe of our EP. We learned that making an album is nowhere near as simple as what we had initially thought. So much energy, time and money goes into it. In saying that the whole process was very rewarding and we are so grateful for the experience.

There's such a big contrast between Amy Baby and Red Box. Guitars feature front and centre for both but one is all jangly pop and the other is chunky fuzz-laden riffs.

What's going on? Was that intentional?

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Justin: This was definitely intentional. Our songs are shaped by our lyrics more than anything. In this case Amy Baby is a heartfelt love song and we wanted to depict that. As much as we'd love to use the fuzz pedal on every track it just wouldn't work.

You've also just announced an eight-date east coast tour which includes the Gold Coast. Have you spent much time here?

Johnny: We're so stoked to be going on tour again! I have spent quite a bit of time in the Gold Coast. My girlfriend is originally from there and my best mate lives there as well - when I am up there it's usually to catch up with people, so I haven't been to a whole heap of venues. However, I have played acoustically a couple of times at The Loft on Chevron Island and have been to NightQuarter before. I absolutely loved the vibe at NightQuarter so when I found out that we were playing there I was over the moon!

GETTING BEHIND THE 8 BALL With his dynamic amalgamation of swampy blues, country and rock, flame haired fusionist 8 Ball Aitken has garnered a swag of devotees both here and abroad over the past decade. One of the hardest working musicians out there, by his own estimation 8 Ball averages a staggering 200 plus shows a year. In the words of the man himself; "Playing live is what it's all about. I've basically been on the road for 14 years across 18 countries without a break and when I came back to Australia this time, instead of having a break I've toured non stop again for six months!"

8 Ball has spent plenty of time honing his craft and building a fan base in the USA, recording two of his most recent albums, The New Normal and Southern Hemisphere, in the country music mecca of Nashville, Tennessee. I ask 8 Ball what it was like being in such an environment on a creative level.

"I lived in Nashville for about five years and it basically just pushes you every single day to challenge yourself and do things musically that you didn't know you could do. The level of studio musicians there is just off the scale.

You end up living and breathing music."

Renowned for his killer slide guitar prowess, 8 Ball is not afraid to dabble in a range of different instruments, including banjo, various percussion and harmonica.

THE WILDBLOODS HIT NIGHTQUARTER 10 JUNE.

"Slide guitar is my number one. But it's always a fun challenge to learn different tunings and different instruments. It's a life mission for me‌ well I think it's more than

one lifetime worth. I actually play on the road, if I've got a driver. Because your time is just so at a premium these days. With computers and social media and that sort of stuff, people really want content and they want to know what you're up to constantly.

So if you can get someone to drive while you're on tour then you can sit in the van and play guitar and you're actually getting that quality song writing time."

Renowned for his infectious, high energy live performances, 8 Ball will be hitting the Advancetown Hotel on 11 June, something he's very much looking forward to.

"I love playing on the Gold Coast, although I don't get there often enough. And I've heard great things about the Advancetown Hotel."

Once his current Australian tour commitments are complete, unsurprisingly 8 Ball won't be resting on his laurels anytime soon.

"I'll be heading back over to The States, I'm planning on recording my next album in Texas. I've got a heap of new songs, I'm just refining which ones I'm gonna use."

Anthony Gebhardt

8 BALL AITKEN WILL BE PLAYING AT THE ADVANCETOWN HOTEL ON 11 JUNE.

PREACHIN’ THE CAMBUS WALLACE BLUES Matt Lye and Jamie Kasdaglis have a deep connection to the Gold Coast. Better known collectively as the James Street Preachers, the duo have been living and performing on the Gold Coast long enough to see the cultural shift happening and they’re proud to be part of it.

Jamie Kasdaglis (guitar, piano and vocals) had been performing with Wiley Reed in Gold Coast clubs in the 90s when he first started playing with Matt at The Loft, Chevron Island.

“It was these sessions that lay the future foundations for The James Street Preachers,” says Matt (bass, guitar, vocals). “It’s not something that’s happened overnight.”

“We met in ’96,” adds Jamie, “at a jam sessions. And instantly had a great connection that has seen us gig and jam together in various groups for the last 20 years before we got together as the Preachers in 2014.”

Having played locally for 20 years, Matt says the pair have played all sorts of venues “some great, some not so great.”

“We have seen many venues open with such promise, only to close not long after due to various reasons,” Matt said.

“However these days there seems to be a growing demand for live music, especially when there are great venues tailormade to support live music.”

Pretty much from the time The James Street Preachers formed, they found their spiritual home in the form of Nobby Beach boutique bar The Cambus Wallace, becoming somewhat of a house band. And they’re quick to point out they have regular gigs in a heap of other Gold Coast venues like Etsu Izakaya and 19Karen’s exhibition opening nights.

“They were our first regular musicians,” says Dave Ferry of The Cambus Wallace. “They came in and said they play Chicago-style street blues, and I said ‘sweet how about you come and play on Wednesday’?”

“When they finished that first Wednesday I asked them if they wanted to come back every week,” Dave said.

“Live blues just fits so well in the venue,” he added. “And it doesn't overshadow everything else, people can sit back and enjoy their dinner and drinks, and you can just see them 'feeling' the blues.”

The James Street Preacher’s reach extends beyond that of Gold Coast’s boutique bars and restaurants though.

“We have performed at festivals and enjoy the fact our audience ranges in all ages,” said Matt. “There seems to be a resurgence in blues and roots music with growing interest in what we do coming from a younger generation of audience who seem to be fed up with commercial music and are looking for a sound that's more organic, raw and satisfying to the soul,” Matt said.

“The Cambus Wallace have given us the opportunity to showcase our style of blues music. And it's so good to see festivals such as Blues on Broadbeach giving great support to local artists and showing how strong the quality of entertainment is on the Gold Coast,” Matt said. “It's a great time for music here right now.”

In terms of the future, the pair don’t see too much changing.

“We just want to play good blues and that’s really our main goal,” said Jamie. “We play together because we love it, we love the music and it’s something we see ourselves doing for a long time to come.”

“It would be great to spread our wings more preaching the blues by playing more festivals and touring and we are currently collecting new material for a new release,” Matt added. “So our current plans are to get back into the studio and see what we can create. It's not a quick process by any means.”

And if you’re worried that ‘spreading their wings’ might mean growing beyond the confines of The Cambus Wallace, you’ve no need to worry.

“We like the 'house band' feel. It fits with the whole vibe of the place,” said Dave Ferry. “You know, everyone knows everyone and that includes the musicians. Most people are on first name basis with them, and we like it that way.”

“That said, when there's good touring blues artists coming through the GC we'll book them for a show.”

Samantha Morris

THE JAMES STREET PREACHERS ARE AT THE CAMBUS WALLACE ON WEDNESDAY 7, 14 AND 28 JUNE. JOSHY DREDZ MAKES AN APPEARANCE ON SUNDAY 4 JUNE, MATTHEW ARMITAGE ON TUESDAY 6, 20 AND 27, HERBIE WALKER ON SUNDAY 11 AND 25 JUNE, MESCALITO BLUES ON TUESDAY 13 AND ANGELO PASH ON SUNDAY 18 JUNE, PLUS YOU CAN CATCH DJ BRCKS ON TURNTABLE THURSDAYS.

www.blankgc.com.au

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SO NEAR AND SO FAR There’s a new type of musical experience that’s taking the world by storm. For many years, Sofar Sounds has been pulling together regular secret gigs which showcase emerging local artists to eager music lovers in an intimate, stripped-back setting.

Now the Gold Coast joins cities like London and New York in the Sofar concept. Hosts Mindy Davis and Dani Miller are both artists themselves, and are incredibly excited to be bringing the first Sofar Sounds gig to us on 16 June (frankly, we’re excited too!) The ladies had a quick chat with Natalie O'Driscoll about the concept.

How long has the Sofar Sounds concept been running worldwide?

Mindy: Founders Rocky Start and Rafe Offer started Sofar in London in 2009, since then the concept and platform has expanded to over 350 cities worldwide. In some cities like New York there will sometimes be more than one Sofar event in a day!

How did the idea to host on the Gold Coast come about?

Dani: I have spent the last two years in London where Sofar gigs happen regularly, after experiencing the magic that Sofar provides I decided to bring it back with me to the Gold Coast when I arrived home. I have always been obsessed with live music and would eat noodles for a week just so I could spend my last $$ on supporting musicians I love.

Mindy: A few years ago a close friend shared some Sofar videos with me, I loved the stripped back style of the sets and the opportunity to discover artists I had never heard before. It was very serendipitous timing as I had a thought back then that I would love to bring something similar to the Gold Coast but never followed through, until a couple of months back I was reminded of this thought so I emailed the Sofar global team to see if I could set it up, Dani had recently contacted them with the same idea so we got in touch and it’s been all go since then!

What does a Sofar Sounds evening consist of?

Mindy: A Sofar evening will usually have three artists playing, each artist gets equal playing time and equal attention. It is a secret line up until you arrive on the night this way our audiences are given a nice surprise and

discover something new each month. If you sign up to attend you will be sent the address the day before the event, spaces are limited so definitely sign up early and don’t miss out. It is generally a BYO event but can depend on the venue we will let you know all of these details in the email before the event. It will be MC’d by the Sofar Gold Coast team.

TO SIGN UP FOR UPDATES AND APPLY FOR THIS EXCITING GIG, VISIT SOFARSOUNDS.COM/GOLDCOAST. YOU CAN ALSO VISIT THE SOFAR SOUNDS FACEBOOK PAGE.

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FINALLY FRENZAL

So finally you have a new album! Why so long?

It has been six long years since the last Frenzal Rhomb album. Finally, High-Vis High Tea was released in May. Erin Bourne had a rather hilarious chat to Jay about the album, the upcoming tour and a bunch of random other thoughts.

Finally is definitely the word there. It’s been a bit of a process. There were a few things, our drummer broke his arm and there was the brain surgery. (Jay underwent surgery to have a Pigworm removed from his brain in 2013.)

Tell us about the Pigworm?

It was most likely during my travels through Central America as they are common in that area. It was just bad luck but good luck because one day out of the blue I had a seizure and that’s how they found it. I was fearful for a while that I had an inability to write choruses, I started to write for the new album and I could only come up with verses.

I’m like ‘oh no they’ve taken the chorus part!’

But no, we wrote some choruses in the end.

When you’ve been a band for so long I feel a responsibility for the music to be good.

When we first started I didn’t really care if it was good. Which is why we’ve only got two or three good songs on all of our early records, whereas now it’s more consistent.

It still sounds very Frenzal though.

Yeah, the album is pretty in the pocket but within those relatively strict parameters of the Frenzal Rhomb genre. We try and write catchy songs mainly about dumb shit.

BATTLE OF THE BANDS With the Gold Coast’s music scene getting bigger and better with each coming year, maybe it’s time we turn our heads to see what our youth are contributing and Coomera Anglican College has just the thing to get you excited.

Battle of the Bands is entering its 7th year of operation and it looks like it’s going to be its best year yet. 12 bands, representing Gold Coast and Brisbane high schools will be rocking out in Coomera TAFE’s $26m state-of-the-art facilities on June 15.

Lynne Tarlinton, coordinator of the event says, “Battle of the Bands has been designed to provide aspiring young musicians with an opportunity to gain confidence and exposure though live performance, as well as valuable insights and career pathways into the music industry.

“Participants are given a fabulous and unique experience to perform in front of a live audience, while also participating 14

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in ‘performance-ready’ workshops leading up to the Battle and then receiving feedback on their performance from professional musicians and music industry representatives on our judging panel,” she continued.

The fun-filled night is sure to have something for everyone with the students doing a range of genres such as rock, pop, grunge, funk, folk and reggae.

Songs are going to be a mixture of covers and originals and each band will be performing two songs on the night so you’ll be sure to get a great taste of the young talent we have milling around our golden beaches.

Prizes are all relating back to the music industry with students able to win more performance opportunities and the best song will be able to win some time in a recording studio.

Mrs Tarlinton says, “The Gold Coast community has really gathered together to create such an amazing and safe environment and provide fantastic

prizes that will help further the students’ careers even more. The best part about it is to see all the students from both Gold Coast and Brisbane schools unite to celebrate their musical talents and express themselves creatively. It’s amazing to watch and I urge everyone to come and enjoy the night.”

Members of the public are invited to attend the Battle of the Bands at the TAFE QLD Gold Coast Coomera Campus with tickets available on the evening for $10 per person.

The night is kicking off at 6:00pm so be sure to get there early and snag the best seat in the house, as you’re not gonna want to miss a minute of these fantastic young, budding artists.

Emma Whines

It’s not really just dumb shit, there is a bit of a conscience underneath that.

Yeah! I’m glad you picked up on that but don’t tell all the boneheads that come to our shows.

That’s another thing we always try and hone over the years is trying to get that balance between some kind of political discourse and complete alienation of our fans. So trying to always tread that line. I actually see Frenzal as kind of pop music fundamentally. It’s just done at speed and with lyrics that’ll never ever be played on a radio station.

Really, pop music? When the first single from High-Vis High Tea is C**t Act? (Laughs) Yes we thought that was our last ditch effort to get played on commercial radio.

We’re pretty good at commercially sabotaging our music. Or at least hiding behind making things too offensive so when they’re not played we don’t have to go ‘it was probably because the song wasn’t good’. We can say ‘they’re not playing it because of the swearing, otherwise they definitely would have played it!’.

FRENZAL RHOMB WILL BE HITTING MIAMI TAVERN ON 22 JULY. TO READ THE FULL INTERVIEW, GO TO BLANKGC.COM.AU

Image: Lamp Photography

IT’S PERFECTLY OKAY TO CRY FOR CHRIS CORNELL It can be hard to know how to handle your grief when a beloved public figure dies. Is it appropriate to cry when you didn't know them personally? Isn't it a bit embarrassing to get so upset at the loss of someone you've never met, when surely it's their friends and family who are bearing the brunt of the burden?

Here's the thing: We DO know artists, at least a part of them. Their lyrics, their music; these things come from some of their deepest and most personal, and - especially in the case of Cornell - darkest places.

In turn, Cornell's lyrics, his music; these things resonated with our own personal spaces. Our own darkness. His words didn't just speak to us, in some cases they provided a framework for things we were feeling that we weren't yet able to articulate. He gave us language. We connected and formed relationships with like-minded individuals through his music. He gave us family. He inspired a whole generation of artists by pioneering a sound and a vibe that was totally at odds with the commercial music surrounding it but that still managed to have commercial appeal. He gave us a genre, albeit a paradoxical one.

Soundgarden's contribution to the evolution of rock music cannot be overstated. But nor can Chris Cornell's contribution to the

expression of nineties angst. His lyrics dealt with both the state of self and of the world, reflecting that cynical, disenfranchised Gen-X view of the planet. But his more personal songs about battling with mental illness and substance abuse made legions of fans feel like they weren't alone, weren't freaks. The heaving moshpits of the grunge generation provided an outlet for all of that pent up teen rage. In making his failings public and turning them into art, Cornell managed to relate to millions of people in a way that artists who seek perfection via autotune and airbrushing can never achieve.

It was his flaws that made him so very loved.

And so I say, by all means we should grieve for Chris Cornell. He gave freely of himself and in doing so inspired, connected and shaped a generation. He fought his demons long and hard. He brought his unique and beautiful talents into our lives for many years, and forever changed the face of rock.

Cry for him. He deserves it.

Natalie O'Driscoll

If you are experiencing mental health issues or suicidal feelings contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or BeyondBlue 1300 224 636. If it is an emergency call 000.

JORDAN MERRICK SHOWS HIS TRUE COLOURS Bringing his unique style of Australian bush ballads, Americana and blues, is Brisbane based singer-songwriter Jordan Merrick. Originally hailing from the Gold Coast, this soulful singer recently brought his debut EP tour back to his home turf. Natalie O'Driscoll fired off a few questions to Jordan about his EP In Colour and what he’s up to next.

Congratulations on the EP release. How has the response been so far?

The response caught me off guard quite a bit. It is so humbling to receive messages of support from complete strangers who have stumbled on the EP. I've been quite fortunate to have community radios around the country embrace the EP as well. They are truly the lifeblood for indie musicians looking to get their music to new audiences.

Where do you draw inspiration for your writing?

Songwriting for me is very structured. I approach it like a job - I enter my home studio, close the doors and (just as you do when you go to work) switch into work mode. During the day I often take note of thoughts that pop into my head. Be it regarding a movie, someone I've brushed past at the local shopping mall, an emotion I've felt/am dealing with etc.

In terms of direct inspiration, there is no one place. I keep my eyes peeled, ready for inspiration to walk into the room.

Each and every one of us relate to music in a different way. When people to listen to In Colour, it's more important to me that they feel 'something' as opposed to feeling any particular emotion. Music is a unique experience for us all.

What was it like playing the EP back on home turf, at The Loft?

It was so great. There is something so special about playing in your home town, especially at a place I spent many years of my youth frequenting. There were people in the crowd I'd known since grade one of primary school.

It was just as much a homecoming as it was a show and on a rainy evening in Chevron Island there was no place I'd rather be.

What's next for you in 2017?

The In Colour tour finishes up next month, but we've been working hard behind the scenes to organize some pretty big shows across the country later in the year. While I can't say too much, I can confirm you'll be seeing some new music released sooner than you'd think.

2017 feels like it's just kicking off.

What do you want people to feel when they listen to In Colour?

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LOCAL GIG TURNS 100!

The Local Gig has been giving airplay to local bands for over two years. As well as celebrating its recent 100 show milestone, the 94.1FM program has recently been extended to two hours. Terry Tappa Teece caught up with show co-host Stewart Fairhurst for a chat about his passion for local music and what we can expect from the program moving forward.

How does a local artist go about getting on your radio show, and tell us a bit about it?

It’s very easy. All they have to do is send MP3s and a bio to localgig@941fm.com.au or go to www.941fm.com.au, click on the Local Gig tab & follow the prompts.

Of all the artists you have played on your show of the last few years, who are the ones that really stand out, or fulfilled the reason why you did the show in the first place?

There are a lot of amazing artists on the GC but I can’t really say any particular artists as we are unbiased towards the music and because we play a lot of different genres. I will say though, it is fantastic to see Amy Shark doing so well. I’ve known Amy for ten years through the shop and I’ve seen her go from strength to strength so we are very happy for Amy. Anything new you are looking to bring into the show, and do you do live content as well?

We don’t do live content at the moment but you never know what might happen down the track. Even though we’ve done over 100 shows now, in the radio business we are still very young so we just have to take it one day at a time.

IF YOU WANT TO CHECK OUT THE LATEST LOCAL MUSIC, TUNE INTO STEWEY AND KAREN ON TUESDAY NIGHTS 7.00-9.00PM ON 94.1 FM. IF YOU ARE A LOCAL BAND AND WANT TO HEAR YOURSELVES ON THE RADIO THEN EMAIL YOUR TRACKS TO STEWART AND KAREN.

CLOWNS GET LUCID ON THE GOLD COAST Following a memorable show at Miami’s Shark Bar last year with The Bennies and Axe-Girl, Melbourne punk outfit Clowns are stoked to return to Shark Bar Thursday 8 June to celebrate the release of their new album, Lucid Again.

EVERYONE DESERVES MUSIC RETURNS Everyone Deserves Music is hosting its second fundraiser cover at Miami Marketta in June.

The charity, which focuses on getting registered music therapists into schools, is the brainchild of Dr Krista Talbot.

“I wouldn't be involved in music therapy if I didn't believe in its benefits,” she says.

“Studies show there are countless benefits including enhanced social interaction, communication skills, behaviour initiation, social adaptation and improved quality of parent-child relationships.

Fresh from the French wine, vegan pizzas and magnesium flare-throwing fans of their third European tour, Clowns’ distortion-drenched sound and rambunctious energy are sure to have Gold Coast frothing this month.

“It is incredibly difficult for Music Therapists to get funding to run their programs in schools and we are here to facilitate that process so they can concentrate on making music and helping these kids.”

“I'm excited to finally have some new material, it will be a breath of fresh air at the live shows,” said vocalist, Stevie Williams.

Last year’s event raised over $17,000 and supported 150 children in music therapy programs, numbers that Krista hopes to top this year.

“I'm also excited to finally have enough albums for people to say to us, I liked your first stuff but your new album was really, blegh’."

“This year we have made [the event] more child friendly, it is in the school holidays, we have two kid’s artists and face painting and giant board games,” she explains.

Although, ‘blegh’ is not likely to be the word as the new nine track album has received rave reviews across the board, with Rolling Stone Magazine calling it one of the best rock albums of 2016.

“We've been reviving an 80's and 90's hardcore/punk sound for 7 years now and on Lucid Again we really tried to experiment into some new territory,” Stevie said.

They’ve assured us it’s still very much punk but Lucid Again is more “slackerdelic”, which is basically slacker garage music meets psych rock.

Morphing their hardcore sound with “scuzzy psychedelia”, Clowns will be joined by self-proclaimed rock mutants and modern morons, US four-piece, Night Birds.

Kylie Cobb

GET LUCID WITH CLOWNS AND NIGHT BIRDS THURSDAY 8 JUNE AT MIAMI SHARK BAR. TIX ON SALE NOW FOR $25 VIA CLOWNSBAND.COM.

“We then have our two local bands for the adults.”

Gold Coast scene favourites Leopold’s Treat and Hussy Hicks are the two bands who will be treating lucky ticket holders to an evening of awesome tunes.

Experimental folk trio Leopold’s Treat have had a huge couple of years. Following their 2016 Emerging Artists of the Year win at the Gold Coast Music Awards they have hit up the Busker’s Stage at Bluesfest and released a live track EP. 2016 Artist of the Year Hussy Hicks never seem to stop touring the world, so it’s especially exciting for hometown fans to have them back on the Gold Coast. Be sure to catch the incredible soul sisters on their home turf before they head off again!

There will be tapas and a bar available on the night. The venue is being donated for the event.

Natalie O'Driscoll

THE EVERYONE DESERVES MUSIC FUNDRAISER WILL BE HELD AT MIAMI MARKETTA ON WEDNESDAY 28 JUNE.

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JUNE 2017 LIVE GIGS AT FISHERMAN’S WHARF TAVERN Fish bo w l l o un ge bar | e v e nts | di ni ng | functions

Sat 3rd June Who’s Charlie 7.30pm

Sun 4th June Hillbilly Goats 2pm

Sun 11th June Jason Delphin

Sun 18th June Ricky Tate 1pm

Sun 25th June Ben Amor 1pm

STATE OF ORIGIN MAY 31 – JUNE 21 – JULY 12 Win a jersey | drink specials | BUNDY GIVEAWAYS | PASS THE FOOTY | FREE FOOTY FOOD F I S H E R M A N ’ S W H A R F TA V E R N |

M A R I N E R S C O V E M A I N B E A C H | P H O N E 0 7 5 5 7 1 0 5 6 6 | W W W. f i s h e r m a n s w h a r f ta v e r n . c o m . a u

AUSTRALIAN MUSIC WEEK PASSES ON SALE Australian Music Week (AMW) has established itself as an event to watch on the global stage, and now the music summit is back in its home of Cronulla Beach in Sydney, with passes for the conference and shows on sale now.

CHAMPAGNE TALKS PRIVATE SHOWS, FAULT LINES, AND WINNIPEG

Glenn Tozer talked to Daniel Champagne about his recent album, touring schedule and house gigs.

Here’s the skinny!

The three day event, held from 1 - 3 November, includes conference sessions, networking events and live shows.

Australian Music Week aims to bring together industry professionals, artists and music lovers from all over Australia and the world to network, learn, and celebrate the latest in music of all genres in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Fault Lines is an interesting name for an album, conjuring up images of earthquakes and tsunamis. What the story behind the name?

This year's event will see AMW partner once more with Folk Alliance Australia (FAA) and The Americana Association of Australia, who will host their annual conference and showcasing events as part of Australian Music Week.

I guess it's using the words more metaphorically than literally.

I find the more I go through life, the more I find almost everything and everyone is more fractured than you first think. So often these faults or mistakes or scars are the most interesting parts of the picture to study and write about.

"Folk Alliance Australia are delighted to present our Annual Conference at part of the Australian Music Week this year," says FAA Presiden Una McAlinden.

You have a gruelling touring schedule and visit lots of cities across the world. What makes the best sort of city for a touring musician?

"Our new partnership with AMW will bring the best together, offering a range of new opportunities, connections and possibilities to the industry."

It's a cliche but the answer is people. It's the people I know in a city who shape my meaning of it. My favourite is Winnipeg in Canada which to most is a frozen hole in the middle of nowhere. It's just where a lot of my best friends live.

This year AMW will also host several delegates and one showcasing artist from Reunion Island, in partnership with Indian Ocean Music Market, and will also add a focus on Electronica, in partnership with Maker Agency.

What advice would you give aspiring solo musicians seeking to make a career out of their craft?

The Gold Conference Pass gains delegates access to all conference sessions, networking events, and live shows.

Gold conference passes are available at the special early bird price of $99 (inc. booking fee). From the 1st of August, conference passes will revert to the full price of $129 (inc. booking fee). All conference or show ticket holders will go into the entry to win a Paramount STD PM1 Dreadnought acoustic guitar and case worth $1599, courtesy of Fender.

Natalie O'Driscoll

ALL TICKET TYPES ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH PRESENTING PARTNER OZTIX. SHOWCASE APPLICATIONS CLOSE 17 JULY. APPLY AT AUSTRALIANMUSICWEEK.COM.

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Firstly work out what YOU sound like, not what other people sound like or what you want to sound like. Then work and work and work at your craft till you’re confident to share it on any stage, anywhere in the world and then keep doing that and putting yourself out there for a long period of time.

Can you tell us a story about a gig that didn't quite go to plan?

I was once booked for a 'Private Show' thinking it was a house party when it turned out to be just a couple who wanted me to play while they made love. Needless to say that sticks out as a very strange night.

What does Daniel Champagne's ideal day look like?

Some friends, some road time, a stage, some new songs and a crowd that turns up to really listen.

DANIEL CHAMPAGNE PLAYS NIGHT QUARTER 30 JUNE AND AUSTINVILLE’S MT NIMMEL HALL ON 1 JULY.

GOTTA GET SOME BLIGH A young band with big choruses and bigger ambitions, Bligh recently took out the Green Room Battle of The Bands, less than a year after they formed. Now they are releasing their debut single Gotta Get. Elliott Bayliss, Bligh vocalist, describes their alternative pop sound as “like the soundtrack to scrolling through an aesthetic Tumblr feed while listening to the best of ‘80’s new wave.”

The group chose to release Gotta Get first as it was a nice introduction and very representative of their sound. Despite being a bit more analogue with guitars and drums, Gotta Get still has the big hooks and sing-along choruses Bligh would like to be known for. The single also showcases everyone in the band. This was important to Elliott.

“I wanted the band to be a democracy with everyone contributing and everyone’s opinions being respected.”

Elliott is no stranger to the Gold Coast music scene, having previously performed with rock band The Polaroids, but he realised what he wanted was something more catchy and sing-a-long-like. So Bligh aims to do something they see not many other people doing on the Gold Coast.

“There’s not a lot of polished, glossy sort of music here, except like Amy Shark and Aquila Young,” says Elliott.

“They are a big inspiration for us. We are going for a little antisurf-rock which seems to be popular and everywhere now.”

Gotta Get is definitely pop. Kudos to Bligh for hitting their goal, and damn them for getting their song stuck in my head. Gotta Get is available only in digital form through the usual sources.

If you’re keen to get to a live gig, Bligh can be found playing regularly around the Gold Coast. Upcoming shows include Miami Marketta on 5 July, the Currumbin Tavern, and if you’re up for a south of the border run, Kingscliff.

Erin Bourne

STONE4-6&BORONIA WOOD BREWERY, BYRON BAY PLACE, ARTS & INDUSTRY ESTATE, BYRON BAY (QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY, LONG WEEKEND)

SUNDAY, 11 JUNE | 4pm-10pm

TICKETS $15 – INCLUDES A SCHOONER OF THE 2017 STONE BEER NO TICKETS AVAILABLE ON THE DOOR.

ALL PROFITS FROM BEER AND TICKET SALES GO TO CHARITY

MUSIC : KINGSWOOD | POLISH CLUB | MT WARNING | BUNNY RACKET FOOD TRUCKS: JR’S SMOKEHOUSE, THE BACKYARD CHEF, BAYLATO, PEARL OF THE QUARTER, BURGSTER & PIZZA LOCA FOR TICKET INFORMATION, CHECK OUT WWW.FESTIVALOFTHESTONE.COM Celebrate the release of our seasonal Stone Beer at Festival of the Stone.

Kick back with live music, stalls, good food, good company and good beer...

All ticket & beer profits go to Liberation Larder and Bay FM, through our Ingrained Community Program.

*SUBJECT TO APPROVAL

#festivalofthestone www.stoneandwood.com.au

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BAY FM

Deck Acoustics

JUNE

THURSDAY 4 MAY

Turntable Thursday with DJ BRCKS | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

GOLD COAST GIG GUIDE

Matthew Armitage | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

Graham Hobson | Walrus Social House

Bohemian Cowboys | The Rails, Byron

James Street Preachers | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

Icehouse | The Star Gold Coast

Peter C & Dr Baz | The Rails, Byron Matty Barker | Pacific Fair

Chris Hutchison | J Bar Bec Laughton + Kobya | Shoeak Shack Suzi McCarter (11.00am) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

THURSDAY 8 JUNE

Stoneage Romeos | RSL Club Southport

Jason Delphin Band | The Rails, Byron

Busby Marou | Miami Marketta (ticketed)

Dirty Channel Duo | Hotel Brunswick

FRIDAY 31 MAY

Mat Stokes | J Bar

Lisa Hunt | Kingscliff Beach Hotel

Hayley Grace (12.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co

Beetle Juice + Andy Jans Brown | Sheoak Shack

Turntable Thursday with DJ BRCKS | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

THURSDAY 1 JUNE Hanlon Brothers | QT Gold Coast Stingray Lounge Birds of Tokyo | Surfers Beergarden Turntable Thursday with DJ BRCKS | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach Femmmetal: Periapsis + Pyre & Ice + LOCUS + Nowhere Else + Ravens Lair | The Brightside, Fortitude Valley, doors 8pm.

Tickets $10 at the door. More info.

Gregg Peterson | The Rails, Byron Catherine Gunther | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre HD x GC Rap presents Truancy Vol II | elsewhere

FRIDAY 2 JUNE Hussy Hicks (5.00 – 11.00pm) | Miami Marketta (free) Jake Fox + Cadence + Sophia Koop + Livvia: SEED Showcase and album launch | NightQuarter Fergo (5.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL Jesse Morris band | Burleigh Brewing (3.00pm) The Rekindlers + Handful of Helmet + Wigg + Weather Permitting | Currumbin Pub

Zookeepers (Covers) | Southport Sharks

James Higgins | North Burleigh SLSC

Gemini Duo | RSL Club Southport

Dirty River Duo | The Rails, Byron

The Wildbloods + Dazy Wilson + Jacob Lee | NightQuarter

Micka Scene | Hotel Brunswick

Johnny Diamond | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

SUNDAY 11 JUNE

If You Want Blood Music of Bon Scott AC/ DC Tribute + Stingin Rodgers | Currumbin Pub Who’s Charlie | Fisherman’s Wharf Tavern Benji & Parker | North Burleigh SLSC Jonny Taylor + Casey Barnes | NightQuarter Bligh | Hard Rock Cafe

SUNDAY 4 JUNE Lisa Hunt (2.00pm) | Advancetown Hotel Joshy Dredz | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

Clowns + Might Birds | Miami Shark Bar

FRIDAY 9 JUNE Josh King + Hazel Mei + Athena Joy + Angus Oastler : SEED Showcase and album launch | NightQuarter Ben Hanna (5.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL Sean Fitzgerald (3.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Mescalito Blues (5.00 – 11.00pm) | Miami Marketta (free)

Kenny Slide (2.00pm) | The Bearded Dragon Jackson James Smith jam session (3.00 – 6.00pm | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre Festival of the Stone: Kingswood + Polish Club + MT Warning + Bunny Racket | Stone & Wood Brewery, Byron Bay Herbie Walker | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach Benny D Williams | The Avenue AKoVA | Beach Burritos, Coolangatta

Ra Ra Ruby + Coastal Lights + Here Be Monsters + Jay & Jess | Currumbin Pub

CC The Cat (4.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL

Nick Saxon | Mandala Organic Arts Cafe, Mermaid Beach

Gabrielle Lamb + Scott Dalton (6.00 – 9.00pm) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Smoking Martha | Eddie’s Grub House

Candice Dianna (4.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL

AKoVA | Elements, Byron Bay

The Hillbilly Goats | Fisherman’s Wharf Tavern

Hobo Magic + Elegant Shiva + Dangerpenny | Miami Shark Bar Nick Cunningham (12.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing

Alex Fietz | Walrus Social House Late for Woodstock (Covers) | Southport Sharks Paris Lane | Cabana Bar, Southport Sharks

Hanlon Brothers jam session (3.00 – 6.00pm) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Fergo & The Burden | The Rails, Byron

Nik Conomos (12.30pm) | Cabana Bar, Southport Sharks

Jason Delphin + Russ Walker | J Bar

Icehouse | The Star Gold Coast Nyssa Berger | Pacific Fair

Joshy Dredz (12.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Tessa Devine (12.30pm) | Cabana Bar, Southport Sharks Dave Scott Band | The Rails, Byron Jacob Lee (2.00pm) | Garden Kitchen & Bar Mistram | Pacific Fair Taylah Made (11.00am) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre Michael Asma (11.00am) | RSL Club Southport The Floating Bridges (4.00pm) | Hotel Brunswick

Benny D Williams | Kingscliff Beach Hotel (8.00pm)

Rumblefish + Writers @ The Rails | The Rails, Byron

Phoebe Sinclair + Sarah Frank | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre (6.00 – 9.00pm)

Jason Delphin (2.00pm) | Garden Kitchen & Bar

Kit Bray | Hotel Brunswick

Round Mountain Girls | Kingsclif Beach Hotel

Eurogliders | Kingscliff Beach Hotel

Jason Delphin | Fisherman’s Wharf Tavern

Rob McMullan | Walrus Social House

Phil Barlow | Pacific Fair Liv Heyer (11.00am) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Set Mo: The Panoramic Tour | elsewhere

8 Ball Aitken (1.00pm) | Advancetown Hotel

Velvet Martini | Southport Sharks Hayley Grace | Cabana Bar, Southport Sharks Goodrich | The Rails, Byron Dr Hook | The Star Gold Coast Chris Hutchison + Russ Walker | J Bar Josh Lovegrove | Pacific Fair Wally & The Gators (Covers) | RSL Club Southport Bill Jacobi | Hotel Brunswick Flex Cop | elsewhere

SATURDAY 3 JUNE Luate + Harry J Hart (6.00 – 9.00pm) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre Sarah Archer (4.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL

www.blankgc.com.au

Alvin & Jahbutu + East of Eden (5.00 – 11.00pm) | Miami Marketta (free)

WEDNESDAY 7 JUNE

Jive Cats (Covers) | Southport Sharks

Zookeepers (Covers) | Southport Sharks

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Parker Rose Band + Pinkest and Swaussyfire: Diversity Gold Coast (Queensland Day celebrations) from 2.00 – 9.00pm | Davenport & Young Streets, Southport

Vaudeville Smash (4.00pm) | Hotel Brunswick Hillbilly Goats (2.00pm) | Fisherman’s Wharf Tavern Barefoot Fridays | North Burleigh SLSC

MONDAY 5 JUNE Lloyd Saniel | Southport Sharks Jamie Ashforth | The Rails, Byron Tommy Memphis (Covers) (11.00am) | RSL Club Southport

TUESDAY 6 JUNE Matthew Armitage | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach Pat Tierney | The Rails, Byron

The Red Men | RSL Club Southport

Athena Joy + Hazel Mei + Josh King | NightQuarter

Jake Maywes | North Burleigh SLSC

Bligh | Cudgen Leagues Club, Kingscliff

MONDAY 12 JUNE SATURDAY 10 JUNE

Lloyd Saniel (Covers) | Southport Sharks

Isabel Wood + Tommy Sheehan (6.00 – 9.00pm) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Bill Jacobi | The Rails, Byron

Bill Jacobi (4.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL Fat Picnic + Graham Moes (4.00 – 11.00pm) | Miami Marketta (free) The Natural Culture Band | Mandala Organic Arts Cafe, Mermaid Beach

Michael Whitmore (11.00am) | RSL Club Southport

TUESDAY 13 JUNE Mescalito Blues | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

Nyssa Ray | Walrus Social House

Splendour Buskers Competition | The Rails, Byron

Late for Woodstock (Covers) | Southport Sharks

WEDNESDAY 14 JUNE

Rumours: The Australian Fleetwood Mac Experience | RSL Club Southport

James Street Preachers | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

DISCOVER GOLD COAST'S BEST NEW MUSIC

Bohemian Cowboy Duo | The Rails, Byron

Hood Rich | elsewhere

Jason McGregor | Pacific Fair

James Higgins | North Burleigh SLSC

THURSDAY 15 JUNE

SUNDAY 18 JUNE

Kenny Slide | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Royes + Elska (6.00 – 9.00pm) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Turntable Thursday with DJ BRCKS | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

Fiesta Junina: Trio Mandala and guests + Mandacaru + Di Mello + Telmo Annum (with cultural presentations and carnival styles games as well as food trucks) | Miami Marketta. More info.

Zookeepers (Covers) | Southport Sharks

Adam Harpaz (12 noon) | Burleigh Brewing

James Higgins | Walrus Social House

The Mescalito Blues | The Rails, Byron

Leopold’s Treat jam session (3.00 – 6.00pm) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Paradigm (Covers) | Southport Sharks

Kenny Slide | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Stone Witches + guests | Miami Shark Bar

TAFE Battle of the Bands | Coomera TAFE

Jerome Williams (4.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL

FRIDAY 16 JUNE

Angelo Pash | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

Jake Whittaker + Phoebe Sinclair + AGWA + Lucalion : SEED Showcase and album launch | NightQuarter Kenny Slide | Envy Hotel Sarah Grant (5.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL Mercury Sun EP Launch + Doglegs + Wayward Suns + Dreams of Indigo | Currumbin Pub Benny D Williams (3.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Free The Genie (5.00 – 11.00pm) | Miami Marketta (free) Jake Meyes + Austen (6.00 – 9.00pm) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre Mark Watson | Walrus Social House

Kate Derepas (12.30pm) | Cabana Bar, Southport Sharks Ragga Jump | The Rails, Byron Lily Busiasa | Garden Kitchen & Bar Leo Altarelli | Pacific Fair The Alohas (11.00am) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre Shotgun Duo (1.00pm) | RSL Club Southport The Ninth Chapter (4.00pm) | Hotel Brunswick Ricky Tate (1.00pm) | Fisherman’s Wharf Tavern Jock Barnes | North Burleigh SLSC

Creedence – The John Fogerty Tribute | Southport Sharks

MONDAY 19 JUNE

Jacob Lee | Cabana Bar, Southport Sharks

Lloyd Saniel (Covers) | Southport Sharks

Marshal | The Rails, Byron

Guy Kachel | The Rails, Byron

Benny Hanna + Russ Walker | J Bar

Craig Shaw (11.00am) | RSL Club Southport

Brad Palmer | Pacific Fair Buddy Love & The Tremors (Covers) | RSL Club Southport Cheyenne Murphy Duo | Hotel Brunswick Sofar Sounds | Secret location. Visit sofarsounds.com/goldcoast

TUESDAY 20 JUNE Matthew Armitage | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

Turntable Thursday with DJ BRCKS | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

Sam Buckingham (4.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL

Benny D Williams: in ‘An Evening with Benny’, tickets are $50 and include dinner and a drink on arrival | Upstairs at Eidelweiss, Kirra. Tickets here.

Catfish & The Deejays | Southport Sharks The Mumblers | The Rails, Byron Rick Barron | J Bar Peter Hunt & Yeshe (2.00pm) | Sheoak Shack Jenna Dearness Dark (11.00am) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre Slique Duo | RSL Club Southport Pink Zinc | Hotel Brunswick

Luke Bennett (3.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing

Katie Who (5.00 – 11.00pm) | Miami Marketta (free)

Ned Walker | Cabana Bar, Southport Sharks

Zookeepers (Covers) | Southport Sharks Fergo | The Rails, Byron Danny Dyson | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre Prom Night: Obsolete Office | elsewhere

FRIDAY 23 JUNE The Vanns + Twelve Past Midnight + Tiahn Berg + Kimbal Imaz : SEED Showcase and album launch | NightQuarter Winter Folk Sessions: Nick Cunningham + Luke Morris + Tommy Sheehan | Soundlounge, Currumbin

MONDAY 26 JUNE Lloyd Saniel | Southport Sharks Soubleshot (11.00am) | RSL Club Southport

TUESDAY 27 JUNE Matthew Armitage | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

Michael Eotvos + Russ Walker | J Bar

Leigh James | The Rails, Byron

Benny D Williams | Pacific Fair The Jive Cats (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

WEDNESDAY 28 JUNE

Garrett Kato | Hotel Brunswick

James Street Preachers | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

SATURDAY 24 JUNE Atiya + Zed Butel (6.00 – 9.00pm) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre Mark Divola (4.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL

Swamp Cats | The Rails, Byron Everyone Deserves Music Fundraiser: Leopold’s Treat + Hussy Hicks | Miami Marketta

THURSDAY 29 JUNE

Mark Watson | Walrus Social House

Horrorshow | Miami Marketta (ticketed)

Song Remains: Led Zeppelin Experience | Currumbin Pub

Black Rabbit George | Mandala Organic Arts Cafe, Mermaid Beach

Nicole Parker-Brown & The Late Late Show | Southport Sharks

Turntable Thursday with DJ BRCKS | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

Soul’d | The Rails, Byron

Zookeepers (Covers) | Southport Sharks

Hanson | The Star Gold Coast

Sarah Grant Duo | The Rails, Byron

Felicity Lawless (2.00pm) | Sheoak Shack

FRIDAY 30 JUNE

Suzi McCarter (11.00am) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Hello Tut Tut (5.00 – 11.00pm) | Miami Marketta (free)

Long Gone Daddys (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

Angus Oastler + LIVVIA (6.00 – 9.00pm) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Vertigo Duo | Hotel Brunswick

Michael Eotvos (5.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL

SUNDAY 25 JUNE Bare Bones jam session (3.00 – 6.00pm) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Discover fresh local talent cultivated by Queensland Conservatorium's Bachelor of Popular Music program.

Support local music.

Be in the know.

Follow @theseedseries

Luke Houselander: EP Launch + Johan Danno + Joshy Dredz + Daneel | Currumbin Pub Funk N Wagnells | Southport Sharks Dan Irwin | Cabana Bar, Southport Sharks Mat Stokes + Russ Walker | J Bar

Benny D Williams | Mudgeeraba Show (2.00 – 2.30pm)

Matrix Duo | RSL Club Southport

Michael Eotvos (12.30pm) | Cabana Bar, Southport Sharks

NightQuarter Every Friday 6–10pm 19 May - 23 June $3 Entry

Ned Walker | Walrus Social House

Luke Bennett (4.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL

Herbie Walker | The Cambus Wallace, Nobby Beach

ALBUM LAUNCH

Matty Rogers | Pacific Fair

Electrik Lemonade (4.00 – 11.00pm) | Miami Marketta (free)

Dean Gray | J Bar

presents

Craig Atkins | The Rails, Byron

Pink Zinc | The Rails, Byron

Kimbal Imaz | NightQuarter

Sophia Koop + Jax Haze (6.00 – 9.00pm) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

Ben Hanna | Walrus Social House

Gig Cartel | North Burleigh SLSC

WEDNESDAY 21 JUNE

THURSDAY 22 JUNE

The Wet Fish + Jackson James Smith (4.00 – 11.00pm) | Miami Marketta (free)

Dave + Sav Blonk + Not Lenny + Pure Milk | Currumbin Pub

Chris Aronsten | The Rails, Byron

Baby Animals + The Screaming Jets | NightQuarter

Benny D Williams | Steampunk, Surfers Paradise

Ben Amor (1.00pm) | Fisherman’s Wharf Tavern

Matty Rogers | North Burleigh SLSC

Kenny Slide | Pacific Fair

SATURDAY 17 JUNE

Dallas James (5.00pm): Deck Acoustics | Currumbin RSL

Phoebe Sinclair | Pacific Fair Bigg P | Hotel Brunswick Daniel Champagne + Harry J Hart | NightQuarter

Romaniacs | The Rails, Byron Sarah Archer (2.00pm) | Garden Kitchen & Bar Jordan Pineda | Pacific Fair Anna Leathem (11.00am) | The Kitchens, Robina Town Centre

* Catch these SEED artists playing at a venue near you

Greg Bankx (1.00pm) | RSL Club Southport Electrik Lemonade (4.00pm) | Hotel Brunswick

WWW.SEEDSERIES.BANDCAMP.COM

www.blankgc.com.au

25

COMING DOWN (UNDER) WITH BETH ORTON

Beth Orton likes to keep on her toes. For her latest album, the singer-songwriter deliberately abandoned her familiar folksy acoustic-strumming sound, and circled back to the electronic origins that saw her crowned Britain’s “come down queen” in the 1990s. Kidsticks, her sixth album – and one co-written and produced by Andrew Hung of raucous, synth-duo Fuck Buttons – has been heralded for its bold and unexpectedly experimental direction. Ahead of her upcoming tour, Richard Scott spoke to Beth about her new direction, her new record and life on the GC. You released your newest album, Kidsticks, about a year ago now. Are you sick of it yet?

No, not at all. It’s proved to be a tough nut to crack, in terms of performing it live, on stage. It’s taken me a long while to be able to grasp exactly how it should be heard. It’s all for the best, though.

Glad to hear it. You’ll be touring in June, what are you looking forward to most about heading Down Under?

I just love Australia. It’s such a beautiful place to visit, so inspiring. I’ve written so many songs there. I love it.

Did you see the Gold Coast on your travels?

I have, yes. After I came off tour, ages ago, I ended up staying on at the end. A few songs from [2006 album] Comfort to Strangers came from that time. Can’t remember where I stayed exactly, but I remember it being a lot of fun: just writing, staying by the sea.

For this album, you unexpectedly teamed up with Andrew Hung. How did that come about?

Basically, I really wanted to work with him ever since his remix of Mystery [from 2012’s Sugaring Season]. So when Andrew suggested we actually team up, I said ‘Fuck, yeah.

Let’s do this.’ I was living in LA [in the Hollywood Hills], he flew over and we huddled together in my garage with nothing but a keyboard in front of us, just playing around with electronic bits and pieces. It just sounded really good!

Soon we had 26 skeletons – loops and odds and ends – that I knew I wanted to turn into songs.

Could you talk us through your process?

I wish I knew, myself. You just do it. I suppose that’s the insecure part of what I do: none of this existed before; it’s all up in the air. Take songs like Petals or Corduroy Legs [from Kidsticks], some of the words there I spent years mulling over. You’re always working, always writing, sometimes just for shits and giggles, but always hopeful.

I live in a place of constant unknowing. Often, you’ll find yourself incredibly stranded, left adrift. Then, every once in a while, all will be wonderful.

The way it should be

26

www.blankgc.com.au

BETH ORTON WILL TOUR AUSTRALIA IN JUNE, PLAYING BRISBANE’S TRIFFID ON SUNDAY 18. TICKETS ON SALE VIA OZTIX.

BIGSOUND ANNOUNCES AUSSIE LEGENDS AS KEYNOTES BIGSOUND is the southern hemisphere’s biggest celebration of new music. In 2017, the event will take over Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley from 5 – 8 September and this month organisers have offered a first look at the program with keynotes and a bunch of other speakers announced.

Heading the announcement is Archie Roach and Tina Arena. Taking exceptionally different paths to musical success, Archie Roach and Tina Arena have each cemented their place in Australian music history… telling Australian stories through song across many decades.

Organisers have also announced some of the hottest American music tastemakers as part of the program, including Mary Ramos, who is Quentin Tarantino’s music supervisor, responsible for some of cinema’s most seminal soundtracks and creating soundscapes that have defined cinema for a generation of movie-goers.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

BIGSOUND alumni (Middle Kids, Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever, The Goon Sax, Flume) that have signed deals after previous festival performances will be bringing their international teams back for the event.

And if that’s not enough to get you excited about the September festival and conference, visual artists are aso being welcomed into the BIGSOUND fold this year with a showcase opportunity and production workshops on offer for artists keen to work in music.

It's no secret that BIGSOUND is the place to see and be seen when it comes to Australia's music industry, but with an open call for Australian visual artists of all disciplines who wish to exhibit their existing works to the music industry and public audience during the 2017 festival, the event is totally upping the cultural ante. Works will be exhibited either in the public realm or within live music venues in Fortitude Valley. Accepted artists will have their artwork transported and installed by organisers, and receive a BIGSOUND full delegate pass worth $670.

THE CLOSING DATE TO SHOWCASE ART IS 30 JUNE. TO GET THE LATEST DETAILS, VISIT BIGSOUND.COM.

Friday 2 June

THE REKINDLERS / HANDFUL OF HELMET / WIGG / WEATHER PERMITTING

Saturday 3 June

IF YOU WANT BLOOD MUSIC OF BON SCOTT AC*DC TRIBUTE + GUESTS STINGIN RODGERS

Friday 9 June

RA RA RUBY / COASTAL LIGHTS / HERE BE MONSTERS / JAY & JESS

Friday 16 June

MERCURY SUN - EP LAUNCH / DOGTAGS / WAYWARD SUNS / DREAMS OF INDIGO

8pm / $10 entry 8pm / $10 entry 8pm / $10 entry 8pm / $10 entry

Friday 23 June 8pm / $10 entry

Saturday 24 June 8pm / $20 entry

Friday 30 June 8pm / $20 entry

DAVE (NEWCASTLE) EP LAUNCH / SAV BLONK / NOT LENNY / PURE MILK SONG REMAINS LED-ZEPPELIN EXPERIENCE LUKE HOUSELANDER EP LAUNCH / JOHAN DANNO / JOSHY DREDZ / DANEEL

www.blankgc.com.au

27

music reviews

FRENZAL RHOMB

STEEL PANTHER

THE SILENCIO

DANIEL CHAMPAGNE

When the first single from an album is C**t Act you can be pretty sure it’s the work of Australian punk legends Frenzal Rhomb.

The long awaited new album, High-Vis High Tea, is classic ‘Frenzal genre’, offensive, selfdepreciating and unapologetic. What can you expect from the band who have, much to mainstream disbelief, lasted for 25 years?

Swearing, songs about ‘dumb shit’ and a solid dose of humour all played fast and loud. Yep, High-Vis High Tea brings it all and then some.

Steel Panther have had a structure to their style for a long time now. It's always the same dirty, crude humour that takes the absolute joke out of themselves. But don't let this seem like I'm having a dig at them. It's exactly the opposite. It never gets tiring and the jokes are always hilarious and fresh. Their latest instalment Lower The Bar is just that.

Gold Coast acoustic rock quartet The Silencio are set to release there new album Anathema .... and in preparation for that they have released a brand new single Been There All Along accompanied by a video release for the track.

I get teased about my love of melancholy singer songwriters. Mostly by Blank editor Sam Morris. So when I heard Dan Champagne’s new album Fault Lines was up for review I jumped at the chance to further immerse myself in the genre at least in spite of her, if not for my love of the guitarist’s music.

High-Vis High Tea

Jay’s talent for finding humour in, or taking the piss out of, everything serious is on full display. Pigworm is a one minute long furious song about the Pigworm that was lodged in his brain. C**t Act brushes through a wide variety of situations and behaviours that are exactly that. Ray Ahn Is My Spirit Animal is a uniquely Frenzal take on hero worship and School Reunion is my personal favourite as ‘I don’t live that way’ either. What does that mean? Listen to the album and find out.

If you ever loved Frenzal Rhomb, High-Vis High Tea is exactly what you’ve been waiting for, stillwailing guitars, drums on point, and vulgar, entertaining vocals. If you never loved them, hopefully you’ve changed because they haven’t.

Erin Bourne

Lower The Bar

Michael Starr has once again brought the goods to the table. Each song is as insulting and at least mildly vulgar as the last. Starr has a knack for writing clever and witty play on words and he hasn't lost it. And neither have the rest of the band, flooding the album with not only some incredible guitar riffs, but the guitar tone is superb.

If you're easily offended, this may not be your cup of tea. But hey, you only live once, give it a crack. If you love jokes about breasts and love making, this is right up your alley. Either way, go listen to it. It's fantastic.

Dan Maynard

Been There All Along

The band have always had a unique sound that no one else has duplicated and this track sees the boys finding their sound even more so. Vocalist Nick has laid down some great aggressive yet clean vocals that can still resonate a brilliant melody. The track instrumentally is superb, not over complicated yet still in your face and catchy as all hell. You'll find this song will stick in your head and you'll be more than happy that it has. And on top of all this, the video is a fantastic watch that won't disappoint.

If this is just a taste of what the album has in store for us, I can only expect that it is going to blow people away.

Dan Maynard

Fault Lines

Champagne is known as one of the more amazing young percussive guitarists touring the world right now. From Bega in NSW but now based in Nashville USA, he’s also one of the hardest working musicians out there with a gruelling touring schedule. I can only imagine this schedule offers heaps of opportunity to write new material and his new album showcases some of that work.

All of My Stars had more pop sensibility than other songs I’d heard before, with a catchy sing-along hook that many will find etched in their brain.

Supernova and the title track Fault Lines both used Champagne’s signature percussive guitar style, showcasing harmonics and finger tapping on the strings that is as fun to watch as it is interesting to listen to. Throughout the album, Champagne was accompanied by a female voice whose harmonies made me wish I had a bloody CD case to see who she was. Particularly on Just Kids. Curse you iTunes.

Buy this album and see Daniel Champagne live. Both are value for money and wonderfully entertaining and fulfilling experiences.

Glenn Tozer

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www.blankgc.com.au

JUNE SAT 03 BENJI & PARKER

CASEY BARNES

BROADS

MIDNIGHT OIL

When a rampant Lenny Kravitz style guitar riff comes smashing through the speakers you know this ain’t gonna be no love ballad.

With lyrics singing of a crazy life and electric guitar licks providing an infectious level of intensity throughout, Casey Barnes’ new single, The Way We Ride is reminiscent of that big raw country rock sound favoured by working Australian bands that travelled through every club and pub in this southern land. Sounds that stirred dancers to put down their tap beer and groove towards the stage and drivers to tap to the rhythm on their steering wheels. Barnes’ The Way We Ride has that definite get-in-the-car-andturn-it-up feeling.

If Nick Cave’s nonchalant tones and the Andrews Sister’s forties sounds were ever experimentally mashed, you could point to the Broad’s debut album Vacancy, a blending of modern melancholic tinged lyrics, sweetened with a dose of harmonic slickness. Broads are a classy and creative Melbourne two piece comprised of Jane Hendry and Kelly Day.

The reformed Midnight Oil are back, and the teenagers and twenty-somethings of the 1980’s and 90’s have got daggy dancing moves ready to go. To celebrate, the Oils have released some pretty cool collections for fans of the band. The FULL TANK has the complete catalogue of albums, two EPs and the 40,000 Watt RSL DVD. The real collectors will want the other two offerings.

Their album opens with Green Screen, a dreamy song setting the scene for each of the ten tracks – crooning to us that music doesn’t have to be complicated. Almost all the songs are plucked, strummed and sustained by a handful of guitar chords.

Bliss bombs.

The OVERFLOW TANK includes four CDs and eight DVDs with songs stretching from 1970s home recordings through unreleased tracks from 10-1 and Blue Sky Mining to cover versions and B sides from the 1990s.

Among the DVD contents are an incendiary Oils set from 1981’s Tanelorn Festival, a full 1994 stadium concert in South Africa, an MTV Unplugged performance and their iconic mid-80’s gig on Sydney’s Goat Island. Also included is the Chiko Locallo (B Sides and Rarities) CD, which includes the band’s stellar version of Nick Lowe’s, (What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding, previously only available as the B side to their 1987 single Put Down That Weapon. This is the real collector’s piece and there are tracks and footage that may only be old cassette tapes in the garage, or the old VHS tapes in the cupboard.

The Way We Ride

Having joined forces again with writer and producer Michael Paynter and Michael Delorenzis from MSquared, you can hear their slick guitar laden production that will no doubt be popular on American and Australian country rock festival circuits. And Barnes has criss-crossed the land playing to those places where that melodic Australian rock sound is relished; Tamworth, Caloundra Music Festival, Day on the Green and soon the NightQuarter regions and ranges where people just love that vintage dusty rock sound.

“To be honest I can’t remember ever feeling more excited about a single coming out,” Casey told our cultural editor recently.

“This track is another step up to where I want to be and it’s a really big sounding song production-wise and it’s going to be so much fun to play it live as well cause it’s such a big track.”

Casey Barnes along with his full band will release the new single at NightQuarter on Saturday June 3 June. You can pre-order on iTunes here: http://bit.ly/TheWayWeRide_CB Tiffany Mitchell

Vacancy

The Collections

I can’t stop thinking reminds us of The Secret Sisters – the siblings from Alabama, USA, who sing of similar poetic confessionals with harmonic precision. This song’s seriousness is broken in the form of a favourite little party trick - a voice trumpet solo – the talented owner not credited in the album sleeve.

Nod off, dream is augmented and choir-like, with a slow and solemn tempo accompanied by ghostly drumbeats at heartbeat speed, not breakneck. The song Grace sounds familiar. “Times are for the strong … how I fit this song … I’m one.” Is it the Beatle’s Michelle … my belle, sounding notes and harmonies? Or is it just those simply structured cadence of chords and vocals.

The Broad’s music is bare of bass drums and showy guitar licks. There are no Grigoryan guitar moves either. In a world that is racing and overstimulated, Vacancy, written by Day and Hendry, with their lulling vocals and horse walkin’ rhythms, makes you stop, sit up and listen.

Broads play the Junk bar in Brisbane on the 23rd June. For CD and download details go to broadsmusic.com Tiffany Mitchell

The VINYL COLLECTION is just that.

Basically the OVERFLOW TANK on vinyl. A great collection of some awesome work by one of Australia’s best ever bands.

Also I dare you to listen the first four releases (Midnight Oil, Head Injuries, Bird Noises, and Place Without a Postcard) and you will see what the vibe was all about before they became huge. Brilliant instrumental work and outstanding vocals from Peter Garrett… Like the old Castrol advertisement used to say… Oils Ain’t Oils….

Terry “Tappa”Teece

SUN 04 BAREFOOT FRIDAYS SAT 10 JAMES HIGGINS SUN 11 JAKE MAYWES SAT 17 JAMES HIGGINS SUN 18 JOCK BARNES SAT 24 MATTY ROGERS SUN 25 GIG CARTEL

SATURDAYS 7-10PM & SUNDAYS IN THE BEER GARDEN 2-5PM for more info www.surfclubaustralia.com

www.blankgc.com.au

29

#045 JUNE 2017 Guest Editor: Natalie O'Driscoll Design: Chloe Popa Advertising: Amanda Gorman Music Coordinator: Mella Lahina Money Coordinator: Phillippa Wright Partnerships: Simone Gorman-Clark House Photographer: Leisen Standen, Lamp Photography Sub Editor: Cody McConnelll Contributors: Natalie O’Driscoll, Samantha Morris, Anthony Gebhardt, Erin Bourne, Emma Whines, Terry 'Tappa' Teece, Kylie Cobb, Glenn Tozer, Richard Scott, Dan Maynard, Tiffany Mitchell, Emily Russell, Nae Kurth, Jodie Bellchambers, Marj Osbourne, Catherine Coburn, Anna Itkonen, Pip Andreas, Kylie Mitchell-Smith, Sarah Molloy, Leisen Standen.

Music cover photo: Argon Photography Lifestyle cover photo: Lamp Photography

Acknowledgement of Country We genuinely respect and acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and play. We honour their elders past, present and emerging as well as the rich contribution that continues to be made to society through art, story and music.

Editorial: news@blankgc.com.au Advertising: advertising@blankgc.com.au Gigs: gigs@blankgc.com.au About us: Blank GC is independently owned and published by Samantha Morris and Chloe Popa. Founded in 2013 we are the Gold Coast’s independent cultural voice and we rely on advertising as well as our generous contributors to keep us in the fray. Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the editor, publishers or the writing team.

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www.blankgc.com.au

TRULY, MADLY, GUILTY LIANE MORIARTY

Truly Madly Guilty is a delicious feast of a novel with a teasing mystery that will keep you flipping pages, desperate to find out what could have possibly turned a spontaneous Sunday barbecue in suburban Sydney into a disaster. What happened to send each of the six characters spinning off on their own quiet course of torment?

Author Liane Moriarty has built a cast of complex and flawed characters. Long after the mystery of the barbecue is revealed, you'll want to hang around to find out how each of their stories wrap-up. There's cellist Clementine and her husband Sam, whose sex life has predictably gone stale after the birth of their two daughters, Holly and Ruby. They both secretly suspect it's a sign their marriage is ending. Then there is reticent, type A personality Erika, haunted by her childhood with a chronic hoarder. Erika adores her best friend Clementine to the point of suffocation. Her quiet husband Oliver perhaps doesn't realise just how much his wife reveres her friend. Erika's neighbours, sexy Tiffany and her carefree husband Vid, hosts of the disastrous barbecue are both so self-absorbed that their parenting borders on careless.

Moriarty drops hints and clues throughout, and it's fun to piece the story together. There are unexpected connections and plot twists lurking everywhere, even in the ending.

There are painful scenes, because...well, life. Oliver's memories of a childhood growing up with alcoholic parents or Tiffany's lonely old neighbour Harry, who time and again refuses friendly help or even a home-baked quiche.

Unexpected one liners provide bursts of original and welcome humour. Moriarty is at her best when she writes about friendship and the awkward and bitchy relationships that fester between women who have known each other a long time.

Excellent fodder for bookclubs; read Truly, Madly, Guilty if you liked The Slap, or Offspring.

Emily Russell

THE HATE U GIVE ANGIE THOMAS Sixteen year old Starr was taught many things: eat your vegies, do your homework—and never make sudden moves if you’re stopped by the cops. When she and childhood friend, Khalil, are pulled over by a white police officer, Starr learns the gruesome reality of her parents’ lessons. Faced with shock and terror, Starr must navigate the unmeshable extremes of her life—her simmering black neighbourhood, her blissfully unaware, mostly-white, wealthy school friends, and her loving uncle who is also a cop and respects the officer in question. Starr must decide if, when, and how she will stand up and fight for Khalil.

Angie Thomas’s debut novel, which was inspired by the #blacklivesmatter movement, sparked a battle between thirteen publishing houses, was immediately optioned by filmmaker Fox 2000, and hit number one on the New York Times Best Seller list on the day of its release. Moreover, the novel was written by a young black woman, is about a young black woman, and features a young black woman on the cover, three events that shouldn’t be rare in 2017.

Starr is fun-loving, raw, and real, a smart teenager just trying to get things right. Thomas drew the title, The Hate U Give or THUG, from a Tupac quote, in which he vowed young people will rise up if you mistreat them. It’s a theme that resonates throughout.

Given the subject matter, the book is... unexpectedly delightful. There is limited exploration of hard, intense emotions. And move over, the Brady Bunch: Starr’s family is the kind everyone actually wants. On the other hand, some portrayals, like that of domestic violence, horrify. And yet a warm, light-hearted feel regularly returns. I think I worked out Thomas’s reason for so much light amongst the storm: to show how violence, discrimination, and other atrocities are just part of the everyday scene for marginalised people— but more importantly, so are love, family, and community.

Which makes the real gift of the novel the humanisation of black lives. Their humanity matters, because they matter.

Nae Kurth

THE VILLAGE MARKETS KEEPS THE GOOD TIMES FLOWING

EASY DREAMING WITH AIRLING Airling (Hannah Shepherd) will hit the road this month to showcase her new album Hard to Sleep, Easy to Dream. Jodie Bellchambers chatted with Hannah about her passion for this album - two years in the making - on its 28 April release.

You’re kicking off your album tour in May, you must be looking forward to showcasing your new work, especially to a home crowd in Brisbane?

I can't wait. We played an album launch party at a record store (Jet Black Cat Music) and the feeling I had while playing these songs live for the first time was unparalleled.

A bunch of my family and friends will be at the Brissy show and Brissy crowds tend to turn up the rowdiness for some reason so I can always expect a party vibe. I've been bursting to extend to lots of other places across Australia so this feels like some sweet big steps in the direction I want my music to go.

Your album has a 14 track song list, do you have a track you are most fond or proud of?

I'm ridiculously proud of the whole thing and I'm not sure if I'm supposed to have a favourite child! At the moment, my faves are Shut The Light Out and A Day In The Park. I'm not sure if this is because these are some of the recently recorded ones or because their meanings are more relevant to me at present. But playing these ones live just feels so damn good.

We know the Gold Coast does two things really well.

Outdoor cultural events. And lifestyle. The two are intrinsically entwined. When The Village Markets entered the fray, no-one would have guessed the impact it would have on the local design scene. But regulars would know that The Village Markets dishes up more than just fashion, jewelry and quirky homewares. It’s also a breeding ground for the City’s best emerging talent. The quintessential combination of the outdoors, lifestyle and culture.

“Live music brings such a fun, relaxed vibe to TVM and makes for the perfect Sunday morning hang,” Marissa Bowden, co-founder of The Village Markets told Blank Gold Coast.

“We’re about supporting emerging creative artists across all forms and music is a key element of this.”

Over the past eight years, The Village Markets have provided a platform for emerging local musicians and hosted touring artists as well. Acts include Ziggy Alberts, Mitch King, Lily Budiasa, James Bennett, Micka Scene, Jackson James Smith, Ondre Solien and Scott Dalton to name a few.

Your music and song writing is passionate, heartfelt and playful. Would you say that best describes who you are and where you are at on your creative journey?

“The Village Markets is so much more than just a market, we’re a creative community, connecting likeminded people. Live music and that visual interaction and experience on market day is a huge part of this,” Marissa said.

Other people have often described me as those three things.

I was an attention seeking kid and one of the naughty class clowns at school. I also tend to tap into my 'feels', other people's pain and wear my heart on my sleeve. I'm just trying to be honest and true in my songwriting these days.

Lily Budiasa, who recently supported Amy Shark at elsewhere and has just toured in Ella Fence’s band agrees.

AIRLING’S NEW ALBUM IS OUT NOW AND SHE HITS BLACK BEAR LODGE IN FORTITUDE VALLEY 27 AND 28 MAY.

“It's such a treat playing at TVM. I haven't done it in a few weeks and I miss it,” Lily said.

“I've gotten some really big gigs from people seeing me there and the market is to thank.”

“I've heard so many people when wandering the stalls and sitting in front of me say how they love what the organisers have created in TVM,” she said.

Jackson James Smith said the venue offered a serious freedom of expression.

“There are people who come and choose to solely sit and experience what you put all of your passion into, and that is not found as readily as some might think,” he said.

SUNDAY 4 JUNE 2017 (8.30am – 1.00pm) at Burleigh Heads State School features Johan Danno and Nick Cunningham.

SUNDAY 18 JUNE 2017 (8.30am – 1.00pm) at Burleigh Heads State School features Nick Cunningham and Adam Harpaz.

THE VILLAGE MARKETS CONTINUES TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR ARTISTS TO JOIN THE FRAY. YOU CAN APPLY TO PLAY VIA TVM’S WEBSITE AT THEVILLAGEMARKETS.CO.

“I sold more CDs playing at TVM in one gig than I had sold playing three or four venues a week over a monthly period.”

“I have pushed myself to play better and to connect more deeply with people through this kind of engagement and playing at the markets has been one of my foundations that keeps me living through music,” he said.

If market stalls in fashion, vintage, art and lifestyle plus street eats and live, original music is your bag, then The Village Markets delivers in spades.

Samantha Morris

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31

Lifestyle

GET YOUR SEAFREAK ON There is no shortage of water freaks on the Gold Coast.

With our crashing waves, boundless shorelines, canals and rivers it’s the perfect breeding ground for water lovers of all kinds. The last few years have seen a massive rise in the numbers of people participating in one of the most inclusive watersports: Stand up paddleboarding (SUP). Riding the er, wave, of this trend is Seafreaks, a family-owned, Gold Coast business that deals in all things SUP and Kitesurfing. We caught up with owner Travis for the lowdown.

“I have always spent as much time as I could on the water,” says Travis.

“I grew up riding traditional short boards but after a serious injury in 2002 I was unable to continue down that path. I kind of fell into SUP as my wife wanted to learn how to surf and I thought it would be an easy way to teach her (I was wrong!) I was bitten and it gave me the ability to get back in the surf comfortably and provided a great challenge.”

Now Travis and the team at Seafreaks share their love of watersports by stocking high quality products and providing education and ongoing support programs to their clients.

Travis is stoked with the team he has managed to find.

“We opened the shop in November last year and to date I have met a great local crew who all seem to share the same values,” says Travis.

“We are lucky enough down here that there is a strong culture surrounding the sport and through a number of different clubs, groups and events we are seeing the progression and acceptance in the water.

“Unfortunately at the moment we have very limited numbers of juniors coming into the sport and as such we are missing that cross over point with traditional surf culture. Both my boys are equally happy on a traditional short board as they are on a SUP or under a kite and as a family being involved in these sports allows us to be on the water in almost any conditions.”

As for the future of SUP and Kitesurfing?

“It would be great to see more families out on the water.

These sports provide any age with the ability to get out, be active and most importantly spend time as a family,” Travis states.

“Both Kite and SUP open up a whole new world in water sports that give us so much versatility. Whether all you want to do is muck around down the creek with friends and family, go out and charge when the swells in or the winds up or join a club and start racing. You are outside in the fresh air having fun and learning new things.”

Natalie O’Driscoll

Travis provides us with an insight into the culture of SUP on the coast.

THE EMOTIONAL BODY

Our body is an amazing place to live and the outer shell of our being. This outer, physical part of us can give many clues as to how the internal environment or emotions are doing. Regularly while practicing in class I have had big realisations or sudden floods of tears as I moved through poses; my students do on occasion also. I know I have not necessarily had anything weighing heavy on my heart or been pondering life’s great mysteries when I rolled out the mat, but at some point, something releases. What is the connection between moving my body and moving my emotions or thoughts?

We are integrated beings, each aspect of ourselves influencing and impacting every other aspect. A simple experiment for you, smile or even laugh and see if you can be truly sad or angry at the same time. Or hang your chin to your chest and roll your shoulders in hunching forward 32

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slightly, can feel super confident and ready to face the world like this? We know posture impacts emotion impacts posture, what else?

How we walk or, more specifically place our feet on the ground changes as we do. Check out your bare footprint.

Are both the same? Do you place the weight evenly on both feet, are you truly ‘standing on your own two feet’? Do both feet point in the same direction, are you clear where you’re headed in life? Some of us are heavy on the heels, almost leaning back and away from people, while others are on their toes almost bouncing ahead. Ideally we walk as though we’re not in a hurry, but happy to be going where we’re going. We all know how enthusiastic we perceive someone who literally shuffles their feet.

At the other end of the body, think of those who carry their head a little forward of their shoulders. This creates short and tight muscles in the neck, it is also a problem that comes from sitting at a computer or laptop too long, too often.

When the neck is short and tight, it actually impedes full blood flow to the brain, impairing ideal mental function and slowing creating a ‘what’s the use’ attitude. We start to create limitation in the body and the mind. It’s also a lot harder to look around to see the beauty in the world if your chin is constantly drawing towards your chest.

There are so many indicators of your holistic state of health if you just tune into the body’s signals. This is what a yoga practice does, it tunes you back into yourself, yoga realigns us and unwinds the unnecessary patterns we have embodied.

Read more at aloka.com.au/body-of-emotions.

Erin Bourne

Lifestyle

MARRIAGE QUALITY: WHAT’S THE HOLD UP?

IT’S SHOWTIME!

Marriage equality in Australia is an emotive issue for many. There are those who fear marriage equality will have a negative impact on Australian society and that it will threaten the values of traditional marriage. Then there are those on the other end of the spectrum; those whom this issue personally impacts - the LGBT members of Australian society who would like their country to remove the last vestiges of inequality they face. Most Australians fall somewhere in the middle of these two opposing views.

Queensland has long been considered one of, if not the most, conservative state in the country. According to data from Roy Morgan Research, 1 in 3 Queenslanders believe homosexuality is “immoral.” However, these attitudes are gradually changing, particularly among 18-24 year olds.

According to recent opinion polls 81% of Australian young people are in favour of marriage equality. 98% of Australian LGBT people support gay marriage. On a more general scale, 64% of Australians are in favour of marriage equality while 75% of Australians believe it is ultimately inevitable.

So, if we believe that it is inevitable, why not just go ahead now?

Those who are vocally opposed to gay marriage often return to the same points. The most common argument against marriage equality is that will lead to children being raised by same-sex parents. Certain opponents of gay marriage feel that allowing same-sex couples to have children will have a negative impact on the lives of those children.

However, the argument for or against gay parenting is actually quite separate from the argument for or against gay marriage. Same sex couples are already allowed to adopt in all Australian states and territories with the exception of Northern Territory. 1 in 1000 Australian children are already growing up in same sex families. Additionally, statistics show us that gay people tend to have a higher level of education than their heterosexual peers with more holding Bachelor’s degrees or equivalent. As a result, same sex couples typically earn more money and can provide more financial security and overall stability for their families than their straight counterparts. Marriage equality will not have a negative impact on the lives of these children or future children being raised in same-sex families. It will reduce opportunities for discrimination and provide further stability in their lives.

Those behind the Australian Marriage Forum are also concerned that if we change the definition of marriage to be between two people regardless of gender then that will open up the floodgates for incest and polygamy. It’s important to note we are not changing the definition of marriage in Australia - we are simply expanding it to be more inclusive. It is not an unalterable definition - it has already been reformed to remove discrimination faced by

interracial couples. However, if the argument against gay marriage is simply that it is not how marriage is defined then the argument becomes about language - not about marriage.

Languages develop over time. New words are constantly added and removed from the vernacular and the definition of words changes as time goes on.

Furthermore, as Australia is now the last developed Englishspeaking country to legalise gay marriage we have the benefit of looking elsewhere to see the impact of marriage equality on society.

In 2015, Ireland made headlines globally by becoming the first country in the world to legalize gay marriage by popular vote. Since then there has been an overall decrease in divorce rates. Same-sex marriages account for 1 in 20 marriages performed in the republic - which corresponds with an average global estimate of homosexuality prevalence of 5%. According to the Central Statistics Office of Ireland, the average age of same-sex couples choosing to marry was 41 whereas for heterosexual couples it was 34-36. They are, typically, in stable, long-term relationships. There has been no move to legalise incest, beastiality or polygamy.

The Centre for Human Potential in Brisbane has conducted extensive research into the impact of societal homophobia on the mental health of LGBT youth and have found high levels of minority stress and internalised homophobia. These lead on to feelings of defectiveness, hopelessness and a lack of human connection. Gay people are 4 times more likely to have experienced homelessness and are 5 times more likely to commit suicide than the rest of the population. However, the research has also found that when heterosexuals value homosexual relationships outcomes improve. Research from the US shows us that suicide attempts among LGBT youth decreases by 14% in states where gay marriage has been legalised. There was also a 7% reduction in all suicide attempts in youths, regardless of sexual preferences. In Australia, this would correlate to saving almost 3000 lives.

In Australia, 1.6% of teenagers are in gay relationships versus 0.1% of older people. Statistics show us that, globally, homosexuality has a prevalence of 5%. These lower figures seen in Australia is not typically interpreted as a low rate of homosexuality - rather a high rate of homophobia.

As societies become more accepting those identifying as homosexual increases. This is not due to a sudden change of mind - rather a gradual absence of fear.

Marriage equality is not a quick fix for homophobia in Australian society, but it is a step in the right direction. It provides legal protection, security and stability for our LGBT members of society and their families.

Rides, animals, fairy floss, showbags.

Who doesn’t love a good show? Each year Mudgeeraba hosts an event to rival the best of them, and has been doing so for almost 90 years. Natalie O'Driscoll chatted with Mudgeeraba Show Society President Des Kurz about what makes this June weekend so special.

The Mudgeeraba show has such a long history. What do you think it is about the show that clearly resonates so much with Gold Coasters?

That Mudgeeraba Show is an event that showcases the traditional along with life in the 21st century. It is the largest Agricultural Show in the region and families love to visit and see all that has been a part of their heritage, to enjoy the animals and all the other fun and entertainment that is the 'Mudgeeraba Show'. This will be the 90th year of the Show.

What are some of the most popular program events at the Mudgeeraba Show?

Visits to the animal exhibits, these include cattle, goats, sheep and the horses, these are certainly traditional along with our wonderful arts and crafts exhibits. And of course the wood chop programme this is an iconic Show event that people really enjoy.

What is attendance generally like over the weekend?

We expect greater than 40,000 persons to enjoy a fantastic weekend of family fun and entertainment.

What do you think will really wow attendees this year? Are there any firsts happening or is it all the tried and true stuff?

Well there is both, certainly the 'tried and true' as this is what people have come to expect and enjoy, however we have a number of events that are new, if you like to place a bet, come and take part in the 'yabbie racing', this promises to be loads of fun. We will have for the first time Farrier competitions.

While this is a traditional craft, young men today are trained and compete keenly to win! Our entertainment programme has many firsts, Casey Barnes will be here along with a number of other young stars, we will have 'Borobi' the Games Mascot too, this will be his first Show ever!

What can kiddies look forward to?

Kiddies can enjoy all the fun of the fair including the many rides, a great variety of food including organic options, a Monster truck to sit on, the animal nursery always popular with children and of course the ever popular showbags.

THE MUDGEERABA SHOW IS HELD ON 24 AND 25 JUNE AT THE MUDGEERABA SHOWGROUNDS. VISIT MUDGEERABASHOW.ORG.AU FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Sarah Molloy www.blankgc.com.au

33

Environment

MAKING E-WASTE RECYCLING EASY

MARDIGRASS IS ALWAYS GREENER

Nimbin's annual cannabis law reform protest rally and gathering, Mardigrass, celebrated its 25th anniversary in the first weekend of May this year with a turnout estimated to be greater than 10,000 people. Law reforms passed in Federal and State parliaments in 2016 and 2017 have made access to and cultivation of marijuana for medicinal purposes legal.

Manufacture of hemp foods, which are very low in THC, is also now legal. So what are the counter-culture green fairies marching in the streets of Nimbin for? Plenty it seems.

Recreational marijuana is still illegal and that is still a sticking point with the Nimbin protesters. While the first licence to grow medicinal marijuana was issued to the Cann Group in Victoria, red tape could be holding up a potentially booming agricultural industry in other parts of the country.

Also, despite evidence from overseas research (particularly from Israel) for cannabis use in brain and breast cancer, Victoria has restricted its use to children with severe epilepsy. All states, in fact, have different legislation when it comes to the use and cultivation of cannabis. Queensland currently has the most flexible legislation allowing specialist doctors to prescribe cannabis without state approval.

Queensland GPs can also apply to a government body for permission to prescribe cannabis to their patients.

"No parliament does anything unless they are forced by a movement outside. They are all very conservative and they don't do anything unless they are literally forced to change," according to Greens MLC NSW, David Shoebridge.

Shoebridge was part of the Pot Politix Forum at Mardigrass 2017, which included Federal MP for the Justice Party, Derryn Hinch, Hemp Party Secretary Andrew Kavasilas, political strategist Glenn Druery, and 'Weeded Warrior', Damon Adams. The forum tackled the problem of how to get politicians to take law reform seriously.

"We know prohibition doesn't work. It's about how you change that 80 odd years of propaganda," said Kasavalis.

"Changing cannabis policy is a minefield because you're treading on a lot of toes; the AMA, the police, lobbying companies including pharmaceutical companies, the company that supplies saliva tests to the police."

David Shoebridge threw organised crime into that mix as well, "The ones who are making the money from illegal drugs desperately don't want the laws changed."

Derryn Hinch had his own unique way of describing the absurdity of recreational cannabis laws, "I get sick of watching TV at night with these big burly coppers with guns on their hips arresting plants. It's very silly." And on a more serious note, "Push the crossbenchers, we do have power.

They need us to support their amendments so that is where we can put some pressure on things." Hinch is a fervent supporter of decriminalising marijuana and says "Don't be swayed to say we are winning this. Medical cannabis is just one area."

The last word goes to Hinch's hunch "There's light at the end of the tunnel, but watch out. There could be an express train coming the other way."

Pip Andreas thinklovelive.com 34

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FESTIVAL FOOTPRINTS Standing in the long queues for the food and drink stalls at a festival this year, I couldn't help but be confronted by the excessive amount of rubbish said food stalls were creating.

Just two weeks before I had been at an event with a zero waste policy. Does a zero waste policy at a festival work? Yes and no.

The 2017 Byron Spirit Festival in Mullumbimby collaborated with Mullum Cares, a not-for-profit organisation that promotes reducing our ecological footprint by reducing waste.

"The Spirit Festival donated $1000 worth of bamboo plates and cutlery so that patrons could choose to reuse," Mullum Cares founder Sasha Mainsbridge shared in conversation with Spirit Festival founder Alex Grant.

"We have a vision for future festivals where we don't need bins. I'd say 90% of the rubbish in the bins at this festival is from food."

The idea of bamboo items came about because regular crockery is too heavy and can break, and people prefer not to take their own utensils to a festival. Compostable single use disposable items are expensive for the vendors to buy, and there is a huge cost to the festival to cart the rubbish away. The Mullum Cares system saves money in the long run.

That system needs to be tight. Patrons are encouraged to wear a black a wristband when they go to buy food. All the food vendors have stocks of the reusable plates, cups and cutlery and they are given to people with wristbands. Patrons then take the items to a wash station when they have finished their food.

"We actually charged $15.00 for the wristbands initially, but we found that that was a little prohibitive. We are now relying on the goodness of patrons and we are handing out the wristbands for free then making it really obvious where the donation tins are because we want to be able to pay for the wash station," said Sasha.

Sasha started Mullum Cares after the Nepal Earthquake and saw how the community rallied together.

"Mullum Cares is a statement of collaboration and sharing."

That feeling of collaboration and sharing may take a little longer to reach larger festivals, although it’s certainly a good start.

"When we feel a discomfort (around change) we tend to say no thanks, I'm going to stick with what I know," said Sasha whose background is in change programs.

Alex Grant feels that the Spirit Festival should make reusable utensils the only option next year.

"The only way to eat will be to get a reusable plate from Mullum Cares."

Pip Andreas thinklovelive.com

We all know how important recycling is, but e-waste cannot go into the Council Recycling Bins. What do you do with it?

Gecko Environment has a solution and is starting recycling your unwanted electronics - Free!

What is E-Waste: If it plugs in or is battery run and will fit into a Tea Chest sized box, Gecko can recycle it. Small electronic equipment including hairdryers, computers, laptops, notebooks, printers, electronic games, mobile phones and their cables, keyboards, batteries, chargers and accessories.

“Much e-waste is reusable,” says Cate Ware, Gecko Environment Council’s e-waste campaigner.

“For example mobile phones are 90% recoverable for their metal, plastics, parts etc. If it still works, many charities can resell items. Planet Ark have compiled a web page which lists where you can take items www.recyclingnearyou.com.au.

Gecko Environment Council is now listed on that website.”

Gecko believes that local residents will recycle if they have a convenient location to drop things off to. They are working to locate more recycling stations for ‘difficult to recycle’ items throughout the community.

Cate Ware explains.

“This initiative started as an idea at the ‘Climate Change for Good’ Conference sponsored by Gecko and Griffith University at the Gold Coast campus in July 2016. Each month the Actioneer Groups formed from this Conference meet to advance community projects that grew out of the conference. We can all reduce our waste that we send to landfill and encourage our friends and family how they can be waste conscious too.”

You can get involved and join your community, using actions to make a difference, at climatechangeforgood.com.au Gather your small E-Waste discards and drop them off at Gecko House from Monday to Friday 10am to 2pm. Gecko is at 139 Duringan Street, Currumbin. If you want to join this group to help with recycling or know more phone Gecko on 5534 1412 Monday to Friday 10am to 2pm or Cate Ware 0414 382271.

Natalie O’Driscoll

SUNSHINE TO POWER POOLS

BARCA, BARCA… BARCELONA Transiting in Zurich airport after a lay over from Singapore, my mind wanders back two decades to my last visit to Barcelona.

It’s the smells, sounds and sights that I recall, a faint memory but nonetheless one that gets my adrenalin pumping as we board the plane.

Solar power will soon supply all of the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre's energy needs, creating significant cost savings for ratepayers.

The world-class aquatic centre, which will be a competition venue for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) will be fitted with a 340 kilowatt solar array of 1300 panels, reducing annual running costs by $100,000.

Mayor Tom Tate said the upgrade was an important part of the ongoing sustainability plans for the city during 2018 and beyond.

"The Gold Coast is an emerging world class business destination with a strong and globally competitive business environment and we want to ensure we remain sustainable and environmentally responsible," Mayor Tate said.

"Initiatives like this benefit ratepayers and the city by reducing electricity and maintenance costs and improving our performance in terms of energy efficiency.

"Our annual electricity expenditure has almost doubled over the past 10 years and we need to reduce our reliance on the current system by investing in alternative energy sources," he said.

Work will commence on the project in July to ensure completion in time for GC2018. The project will cost $654,000.

"During the Commonwealth Games, the eyes of the world will be upon us and this initiative will help highlight our city's commitment to renewable energy practices," Mayor Tate said.

"This project, along with other energy efficiency initiatives on the horizon will provide ongoing environmental and financial benefits for the whole community."

Natalie O’Driscoll

Arriving on a Saturday at 2.00am through customs is never tasteful no matter how easygoing the country is. Alas I’m through and on the other side travelling down the famed Las Ramblas it all comes flashing back- but this time a new, contemporary setting compliments the distinct smell of tobacco and paella.

art, architecture, cathedrals, modern style mixed with impressive Gaudi architecture, like no where else in the world.

I attempt to rest for a while in Barcelona’s central city park, the Ciutadela, fatigue has set in, the siesta is eminent. I awake to visit the underground Hammam bathhouse Aire for a dead sea soak and treatment, built in the rocks under the city it’s as peaceful as it is seductive, a must do.

Oh Barca, Barcelona, Barceloneta, you sweet, sweet senorita, until we meet again Buenos Noches……

Kylie Mitchell-Smith

It’s hard to sleep in Spain. It feels like you could miss out and besides, you know you’ll be enjoying an early afternoon siesta post lunchtime feast.

The morning is sun-filled autumn style. You can sense the long hot summer has just passed.

I head to Barceloneta, the beach side of this unique city, truth is I didn’t know it existed the last visit - could have been my youth or lack of internet or both.

What a buzzing mecca of tanned bodies, beach volleyball and sand filled tapas bars with lemon-infused Estrella on tap. I sit and watch as the half nudist beach plays host to many a traveller, locals and musicians all under the watchful eye of the impressive W Hotel which adorns the southern end of the beach.

Directly behind this Bondi style dunes is a warren of old style Barcelona apartments and tapas bars. The contrast from beach to back street culture is remarkable and definitely somewhere I could live for many a year.

Limited Spanish but just enough to get me off the beaten track to a locals hideaway suggested by my Chef friend Pepe, I find myself sitting bar style with complete strangers eating the freshest, lemon, garlic, olive oil infused whole squid that I wash down with a house tempranillo - that tastes like a fine dining sample all for $15, bonus.

Time poor but hugely excited, I catch a friendly cab to my next destination Camp Nou to watch the game-Barcelona play Villarreal, Messi at the helm. Lets face it a trip to Barcelona is not complete without a dash of Messi, he didn’t disappoint.

So much life is going on around every corner, pintxos, tapas, vino, music, fashion,

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35

Arts & Culture

LINDA KLARFELD FINDS A GOLD COAST CONNECTION

TAKING STOCK WITH REUBEN

Image: Lamp Photography

Visual artist. Music hoarder.

Thinker. Reuben Stocks is a Brisbane-based street artist who you most recently would have seen winning the inaugural Live Art Battle during the epic Signs of The Time urban art exhibition at Gold Coast City Gallery. We were keen to know more about this enigmatic character, so Natalie O'Driscoll shot him a few questions.

You may not know the name Linda Klarfeld, but you probably soon will. This prominent Australian sculptor has recently exchanged the bustle of Sydney for the more chilled-out pace of the Gold Coast. Naturally, we were keen to learn as much as possible about the newest addition to our blooming cultural sculpt-space.

“When I came up to the Gold Coast to visit my parents, I found that people were friendly,” Linda recalls.

“At first, I thought it was strange that people stopped to talk to me or smile at me and I would be impatient. I came in winter and was worried about taking my shoes off in the morning walk on the beach because I thought my feet would freeze on the cold sand. It wasn’t cold!” She smiles.

Were you an artistic child? Tell me a little about Little Reuben, and when you actually discovered your love for art.

I was lucky enough to spend a lot of time around creatives as a young child. For as long as I can remember, I've always had a love for art and music. I started drawing in early primary school and found a strong connection to it. My mum taught me how to use a spray can at 12 to cope with my crippling obsession with graffiti. I had a mentor in my early teenage years, spending Saturday mornings with collector, horologist and artist, Malcom Enright, who, with his partner, jeweller Barbara Heath, showed me a world of design and creativity that (at the time I didn't know) would change my appreciation for, and perception of, design and art as a whole.

“This was the Australia I remembered. I decided to move up to the Gold Coast. I prefer to live somewhere where there is cooperation and connection.”

Born in communist-ruled Czechoslovakia, Linda’s artistic bent was discovered at a very early age.

“When I was three years old my painting was exhibited in a national art exhibition of gifted children’s art in Prague Castle,” she recalls.

“Shortly after we escaped communism, and once in Sydney, my parents – despite being penniless immigrants – paid for my art classes.”

I have met and sculpted many great people. John Singleton was the most fun because he is very witty, so I spent most of the time sculpting and laughing.

Linda felt a particular connection with sculpture.

For the uninitiated, the process of creating a bronze can seem unbearably long and arduous, with several months of effort going into the making of even a small piece. Linda avoids fatigue by keeping herself occupied with multiple projects at once.

“I liked sculpture because it was in your space, a part of your reality much more than looking at a painting on the wall,” she explains.

“I liked the permanence of bronze. I was a teenager and like many teenagers I struggled with the idea that we must die. I wanted our individual lives to have meaning… To me, you could live forever in bronze. The people I loved would be remembered 2000 years after they died. For me that was a consolation at the time.”

Linda’s parents continued to support her passion throughout her schooling, until after high school, when Linda decided she wanted to go back to Prague.

“I became an apprentice to well-known sculptors and studied at a stone sculptor’s high school. Then I went to New York and learned the rest from a lady who was a technician on the restoration of the Statue of Liberty.”

Since returning to Australia, Linda has created over 30 public monuments around the country, including a bust of Tony Abbott, whom she described as “almost too attractive.”

I can’t quite let that one slide.

“Well yes,” she laughs. “From a sculptor’s perspective, definitely! I look at things from a different angle.”

Moving right along. I wonder which are the favourites of the real life figures she has sculpted, so far.

“Pope John Paul II,” she states without hesitation.

“He had a great energy about him. Kindly face and expression and copious amounts of flowing drapery of his cassock. The statue was 2.2.m tall so it was a challenge. But 36

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“I work on more than one piece because it is a very intense process,” she says.

“It feels like I disappear into the work and become blinded by it. By working on something else at the same time, I can put the technical problems and intense emotions aside. Then I come back to the piece with fresh eyes.”

Linda adores sculpting both real people and imaginative pieces, and hopes that her new life on the Gold Coast provides ample opportunity for her to continue with both facets of her work. Ultimately, she seeks to provide with her work the very thing which drove her here in the first place: connection.

“I want people to feel something, be inspired. If my work can connect people and communicate what is basic to human nature, then I am satisfied. If I can bring joy, hope and beauty into the world through my art, even better.”

Natalie O'Driscoll

LINDA CAN BE CONTACTED AT INFO@ KLARFELD.COM FOR COMMISSIONS OR EXHIBITION REQUESTS. VISIT LINDAKLARFELD.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

What was your experience of live art prior to the battle? Do you get nerves and if so, how do you handle them?

I have a lot of experience doing live painting, so nerves weren't too bad at the art battle. Over the past two years I have been painting live at music festivals, doing outdoor installations on plastic wrap - a concept called Cellograff started by two French artists, Astro & Kanos in 2009.

Many artists have "go to" themes, palettes etc. Do you have a stable of favourites?

I use acrylics as a base. The vessel in which I deliver them to the surface varies - Aerosol, paint marker, brush, spray bottle. I'm super into fluid acrylics at the moment.

What kind of art do you surround yourself with at home?

I have a wide variety of art at home. Artists in my collection include - Does, Sam Hillcoat, Lucks, Phibs, Idroes and Emmanuel Moore to name a new. I'm all about the crossover of fine art and urban form. Typically riddled with detail and clean lines, be it Typography, Calligraffiti, classic graffiti style. Structure. Form. Flow. Colour.

Tell us a little about the exhibition you're working on at the moment.

I've started to create a new body of work that I aim to show late 2017 or early 2018. Mainly acrylic works on canvas. There is a definite focus on detail with these works.

What else is happening for you in 2017?

After moving into a fresh studio space this year. I'm also looking forward to a trip to Tokyo to soak up some inspiration. It's head down creation station. Apart from that - [Laughs] shit, I don’t know.

YOU CAN CHECK OUT SOME OF REUBEN’S INCREDIBLE PIECE ON INSTAGRAM @DANK_ZAPPA

AUTUMN AT THE KITCHENS

FALL FOR OUR FLAVOURS Start your culinary adventure with a world of unique fresh food and dining experiences. Taste the difference this Autumn.

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COOKING ACTIVATIONS RUNNING EVERY WEEK

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Arts & Culture

WHY WAIT TO MAKE GREAT? STUDY MUSIC AND SCREEN AND MEDIA Practical learning at our state-of-the-art Coomera campus.

WOMEN LIKE US COME TO SHARKS It’s the show that just won’t quit. Women Like Us, the hilarious and relatable show by comedians Mandy Nolan and Ellen Briggs, keeps wowing audiences across Australia with its inyour-face honesty.

With almost 40 sold out shows to their credit the girls have performed to packed houses at Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Sydney Comedy Festival’s Enmore Theatre, Adelaide Fringe and Perth Festival, as well as taking their comedy stylings to halls, pubs, clubs and theatres around the country. And now it’s Southport’s turn with Women Like Us performing at the Sharks on Saturday 17 June.

Mandy Nolan reflects on the show’s success so far.

“You know our show keeps growing mainly because it’s got that truth telling aspect. That we stand there warts and all and we talk about the experiences of being a woman, and ageing and having kids and we admit that we don't always do well, and somehow it makes women laugh.

“But what’s best for us, is that it makes women feel better about themselves. I want to fight this culture of self-loathing that afflicts so many of us, and encourage us to love the most fucked up parts of ourselves, and realise in the end it connects us all.”

Small town showgirls, there are few sacred cows that Briggs and Nolan shy away from milking, with seven children and thirty five years stage time between them, their 'failure to parent' is the focus of their material, along with the beauty industry, getting older, getting fatter, strange surgeries, weird TV shows, obsessions, frustrations, and at the end of the day, who unpacks the dishwasher.

Mandy Nolan is a columnist for the Byron Shire Echo, and writes regularly for Mamamia. She has appeared on ABC's Q&A, SBS's Mums The Word & About Women and is in demand as a corporate and club performer around the country.

Ellen Briggs is a national Finalist for RAW comedy and winner of Foxtel Comedy Channel's Be A Comedian.

ENROL NOW TO START IN JULY 5581 8300 tafegoldcoast.edu.au/studynow Information correct at time of printing 26. 05. 17 17-1042_Blank Mag Ad_May_04_17

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TAFE Queensland trading as TAFE Queensland Gold Coast RTO No: 0083 CRICOS No: 03037G

Natalie O'Driscoll

CHECK OUT WOMEN LIKE US AT SOUTHPORT SHARKS ON 17 JUNE. TICKETS ARE $35 AVAILABLE AT SOUTHPORTSHARKS.COM.AU OR ON THE DOOR.

TAKING THE LONG ROAD WITH

Ben Allmon YOU CAN PICK UP A PHYSICAL COPY OF FOOT NOTES AT BIG B BOOKS IN BURLEIGH HEADS, OR HOP ONTO BENJAMINALLMON.COM.

Image: Lamp Photography You could say that Gold Coast writer Ben Allmon took a long road to finding his calling. Fortunately for him, he managed to get a book out of it.

Foot Notes tells the story of Ben’s 1000 kilometre walking journey down Australia’s coastline in an attempt to promote his debut album. With $50 in his pocket and a sleeping bag, it was a last ditch effort after years of trying to make it as a success in the music industry.

“I had a very narrow definition of what success was,” he recalls.

“I judged it as a lot of us do; how many album sales you have, how well known you are, and that was the only way to define it.”

Ben hoped that his quirky album “tour” would attract a grassroots following (“There’ll be heaps of people following me with bongos and guitars and we’ll stick it to the man!”) and some much needed publicity.

It didn’t.

“As Foot Notes reveals, I’d always thought of myself as a musician,” says Ben. “Then I got to the end and realised that I’d always been a writer and the music had just kind of been a vehicle for it. I’d always preferred the lyric writing part.”

Ben is engaging and self-deprecating, with a twinkle in his eye and a cheeky smile. While I can certainly picture him on a stage, our long, meandering conversation leaves me in no doubt that words are definitely his “thing”.

Following the big realisation, Ben then went on to carve out a career as a freelance journalist, writing for Jetstar Magazine, Aurealis and The Writer, among others. But it was Foot Notes, the story of his trip, that kept a hold in his mind.

Ten years on from Ben’s misguided-butultimately-fruitful journey, the book and its companion album have been released into the world. The story is described in its blurb as “A tale of sand, songs, survival…and untimely erections.” Being the gutter mind that I am, I have to ask the obvious. Ben laughs, turning a little pink.

“Well. We walked into Broome’s Head (an unfortunately titled town),” he explains.

now that things have started, there’s no stopping him.

His second book is an anthology of short stories entitled Mr Ordinary Dons a Disguise, which is set to be released by the end of the year, and he’s currently collaborating with a photographer friend on a poetry and photography book.

As for what comes next?

“While I’m still physically able I want to do stories that involve risk or physical involvement,” he declares.

Of course he does.

Natalie O'Driscoll

“And as a lot of guys have found at certain times, I just walked in very excited for some reason. Maybe I’d had too many coffees that morning. Anyway the store owners were treated to a whole lot of me whether they wanted it or not. It’s amazing I wasn’t run out of town.”

As can be expected, Foot Notes is brimming with tales of quirky Aussie townsfolk and odd experiences. But Ben was particularly touched by the goodness and generosity he encountered along the way.

“The garbo in tea gardens who gave me most of my lunch, who worked two or three jobs so his daughter could be the first person in their family to go to uni, the woman who saved me when all I had was 40c,” he recalls.

“All of those people showed me what actual success and a good life is, what a hollow and meaningless thing I’d been pursuing.”

“That’s the thing with Foot Notes,” he continues.

“It’s kind of a celebration of the best side of human nature, and Australians’ best side.

We hear we’re racist, we’re bigots, but when you get people one on one they tend to be pretty decent by and large, even if they’re a bit rough around the edges.”

Ben’s literal and metaphorical journey took nigh on ten years to reach publication, but www.blankgc.com.au

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Food & Drink

SOPO DINING ROOM

Australia Fair Metro, Young Street, Southport

POMEROY’S COFFEE ROASTERS Capri on Via Roma, Isle of Capri

“You don’t have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces – just good food from fresh ingredients.” – Julia Child There will always be a place for comfort food. No matter what is the trend of the moment, we still come back to food that’s familiar and loved, however Julia Child makes no reference to the role imagination plays in bringing the classics to life, giving them a modern, lighter twist to pique our curiosity!

That’s exactly what we get from the very talented duo Peter Batley and Julie Rogers, much loved for their innovative fun café food at 42Fifteen, which they opened in 2013.

The couple have made a solid investment in Southport, with SoPo housed in the Australia Fair Metro development a stone’s throw away from 42Fifteen.

“I grew up here and went to TSS as well as Southport High,” Peter tells us. “Julie and I moved back to Southport about six years ago. We decided to set up 42Fifteen in the new Chinatown area as a point of difference,” he says. “Southport has been good to us, so when we decided that it was time to open our second venue it was an easy progression to go with the name SoPo (short for Southport).”

While 42Fifteen is a local favourite for breakfast and lunch, SoPo is open daily for balanced healthy tasty lunches, share plate dinners and great Aussie craft beer and wine, open for breakfast and all-day dining from Friday to Sunday.

SoPo is a classy venue, a ‘dining room’ with autumn colours and clean lines showing off the intriguing modern art of Lynne Batley, Pete’s mum.

Overall, however, the two venues have one thing in common: food bursting with flavour, SoPo turning it up a notch to bring us more innovative modern cuisine.

You could even call SoPo’s dishes ‘posh nosh’, the couple’s play on classics carrying references to modern British fare, often adding an Asian twist. The result is very well made fun food to share, totally accessible to the everyday diner.

The all-day menu’s divisions show SoPo’s light-hearted approach to dining as an episodic adventure: Bites, Smalls, Bigger, Bit on the side, and A great place to finish, with plates ranging in price from $6 - $24. While the dishes hold familiar elements, they’re also intriguing and sophisticated without being confronting; perfect for fine casual dining any night of the week.

Our favourites include SoPo’s ‘prawn toast’, made on sourdough and served with a kaffir lime and coriander-scented prawn 40

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mousse and black sesame – a cracker of a dish, their Housemade pitas (which are perfect for lunch or to share as entrée), and the luscious Sticky pork neck - 12 hour sous vide cooked, carrying the tang of plum and lemongrass (sometimes served as San Choi Bao in crisp lettuce leaves).

SoPo was one of the first places on the Coast to bring us Ahi poke, (the raw-fish salad that is Hawaii’s equivalent to a hamburger). Made from sashimi grade tuna, it’s dressed in a shallot tamari marinade and served with fried wontons, pickled ginger and sesame mayo.

Following the seasons, Jules’s new winter menu brings us a heartier version of this dish: Poke bowls, on trend for the season, served on a bed of rice with wakame. Beside it will be earthy flavours: Beef cheek, Steak with wild mushroom jus and smoked sea salt, Organic chicken breast with pear and avo salad, and reimagined Asian classics such as Okonomiyaki.

“Great produce speaks for itself,” Julie says. “We couldn’t wait to bring good wholesome food to Southport – food diners are comfortable with, but with a bit more flair.”

It’s a step up for Southport, a suburb that has not seen this food before, let alone made the change to share dining. It’s also a place to indulge in a little Mountain Goat or Moo Brew craft beer and well-chosen Aussie boutique wines, very keenly priced.

Pete is enthusiastic in his support of the suburb. “We love Southport. It is without question the most unpretentious, diverse, and non-judgmental place on the Gold Coast and, as a result of this, we will be opening more venues here in the future.”

With great daily specials incentivizing dining, such as $15 premium aged rump steaks on Mondays, $15 Pita pizza and pot Tuesday, the exceptional value ‘Hump Day Date Night’ 3-course shared dinner for two with a neat bottle of boutique wine for a meagre $60 on Wednesdays, TGI Friyay funky beats, Aperol spritzers and $5 bites from 2pm, and beef burger with the trimmings for $10 on Saturdays, let’s hope that Southport steps up to embrace this delicious food.

NOTE: See SoPo’s website for full details of their specials. There’s free parking under Metro.

Marj Osborne Read more of Marj’s reviews on Good Food Gold Coast foodgoldcoast.com.au

Since Capri on Via Roma opened, it has become a fast favourite with Isle of Capri locals and other GC residents who love the shops, restaurants, and gorgeous sun-soaked deck to eat and drink upon. For any caffeine aficionado there is nothing better than sitting on said deck with your favourite brew from Pomeroy’s Coffee Roasters.

Started in New Zealand 26 years ago, Pomeroy’s was brought to Australia by Nathan Ward and his wife Lahnie two years ago. Luckily for Nathan, Pomeroy’s in New Zealand is owned by his friend, who subsequently trained him and has supported him in bringing the brand to Australian shores, with Nathan roasting all beans on the premises and also selling them online.

The first thing you notice about Pomeroy’s at Capri on Via Roma are the three large scrabble style tiles hanging above the till: S, A and F. Inspired by the scrabble games that Nathan would play with his father, each letter represents the different coffee you can order. Single origin, Active and Formula 2.

“The single origin is like a good single malt whiskey, you don’t want to mix it with coke or ginger ale, you want to have it neat,” Nathan informs me, recommending the beans are best sampled in a V60 or Moccamaster style coffee as they are softer brewing methods and allow you to taste more of the elements within the coffee. On our visit, we sampled the Kenyan single origin as a V60 pour over which had a light, tropical scent and delicate flavours of apple and an almost pineapple-like note. It’s the kind of coffee I could drink all day.

The Active blend, which has won three silver medals at coffee awards, is comprised of Ethopian Sidamo, Guatalmalan and Mexican beans. An espresso of the Active blend had a balanced acidity and fruity flavours of citrus, black cherry prominent stone fruit and a slight leathery note that was interesting to palate.

Lastly, the Formula 2 blend is the most popular with patrons and mixes beans from PNG, Brazil, Peru, Kenya and Colombia leading to a favourable dark chocolate flavour with ribbons of oak and tangerine noted when drinking a piccolo of the blend.

Pomeroy’s Coffee Roasters are open from 7:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Saturday and 7:00am to 4:00pm Sunday, but if you are unable to make it in store be sure to keep your eyes peeled for their new mobile coffee van hitting the roads of the GC soon.

Visit pomeroys.com.au Catherine Coburn

TWO AMERICAN ARTISTS TO JOIN 19KAREN 19Karen Contemporary Art Space in Mermaid Beach has over 90 Australian and international artists whose work they showcase and represent. Two new names from United States are now added to the list: Melissa Monroe and Jesse Reno.

The story behind this artistic duo takes you to the True Measure Gallery, their home studio, in Portland, Oregon. The eclectic space houses and displays hundreds of their paintings, hosts their daily art practises as well as exhibits the art of many other artists. And now the duo is bringing their art to our shores and becoming part of the ever-expanding group of artists at 19Karen.

Melissa Monroe is a full-time artist and a busy mum. She is a self-taught artist who recognised her calling and dedicated herself to her art only a year after she first started painting. She paints without a plan or a sketch with simply building colours and layers until a figure emerges and the painting reveals itself. It might be

expressionism, it might be abstract, but Melissa Monroe’s art is nothing if not an organic process.

Melissa was introduced to art by another artist, Jesse Reno. He was painting a wall mural in a coffee shop that she worked in and the two started to paint together. The daily practice has evolved into The True Measure Gallery, a career, a passion and a life-style.

Jesse Reno is a self-taught mixed media painter. He has been drawing his whole life and painted and exhibited his work since 2000 all across the world including the US, Canada, France and Mexico and now Australia.

“When we view art, it is a feeling that moves us. To reduce art to a formula or equation would be to reduce our understanding.

We are not math [and] we are not logic. This is what makes us human. This is what makes us animal.” Jesse Reno describes our relationship to art. This becomes very apparent in his work, in its flow and the natural, organic element of it.

If you like your art honest, natural and grounding, Melissa Monroe and Jesse Reno might right up your alley.

Anna Itkonen

EVENT SPACE NOW OPEN! WO RK SH O P S & PRIVATE FUN C TION S .

1/37 Currumbin Creek Rd

F OR B O OK I N G S A N D E N QU I R E S H E A D T O w w w. necta res p res s o.com

@ necta r_cu rr u mb in

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Food & Drink

RUMI

LITTLE BITES COMPETITION HEATS UP AT BURLEIGH BBQ 2017

2765 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach

You don’t have to travel far to enjoy a taste adventure.

In fact, it’s possible to stay on the Gold Coast and journey via your tastebuds to the exotic Middle East, dining on the authentic cuisine of one of the oldest cultures in the world: Persia.

Influenced by many surrounding countries through trade and migration, Persian cuisine carries many typical dishes, often of meat, in the form of stews or kebobs, accompanied by rice, vegetables and various breads. It’s simple wholesome food carrying the flavours of dried lime, cinnamon, parsley and saffron. Almost all the world’s saffron is produced in Iran.

Occupying the ground floor of a house on the Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach, Rumi is a gracious, comfortable restaurant owned by Meisam Talebladeh. Inspired by the Sufi poet and mystic Rumi, it’s spotlessly clean and neat. We are instantly relaxed, enjoying the coolness inside away from outside’s lunchtime heat, the highly decorative plates a visual feast.

We enter the restaurant through the front courtyard, a beautiful area to sit and dine when the weather is fine; the place to enjoy shisha. Looking to our right, Mohammed is working at his station baking fresh flatbread to order in the tandoor oven outside. It’s served to our table a moment later, delivered on top of a cane basket to accompany olives and dips, such as Hummus, Mast Musir (sweet garlic and yoghurt) and our favourite, Kashk Bademjan (grilled eggplant, caramelised onion and garlic with fried mint and whey).

There are pages of choice for main course and, seeing how large the meals are on other tables, we leave room for a feast.

Choose from kabobs or meat dishes such as lamb shank, grilled chicken, whole fish, stews, meatballs, or Loobia Polo, a traditional Persian rice dish cooked with green beans, which vegetarians could pair with dips and salad.

With so many options, we choose the delicious Mixed Grill Platter – three skewers of different meats (chicken, lamb and grilled minced meat served with saffron and spiced rice, nuts, salad and other sides), a feast for the eyes and 42

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belly ($49 for two), and we end up getting take away to enjoy later! From the meat to the rice and sides, dishes are interesting due to the fragrant spices of the East. No wonder the explorers saw spices as such a valuable commodity!

While the Mixed Grill Platter was a great choice for us, a buffet dinner, $35pp on Monday and Tuesday nights, would allow you to taste an even wider range of dishes.

It’s all about smoke on the water and meat on the beach, as two days of competition BBQ once again hits Burleigh in August. Watch some of Australia's best BBQ teams battle it out over two days, with 20 hours to cook and five meat categories to be handed in at different times. Experienced judges and newly-trained locals will do the scoring. Bring your picnic blanket and kick back to the live tunes in the park throughout. Authentic BBQ vendors in attendance.

Trade areas will complement the beach pathway opposite the competitors. Free entry for the public. The BBQ competition will be held at North Burleigh Beach on 5 and 6 August.

This is a certified Halal restaurant, but there is a mix of diners, the meals being reasonably priced and generous in size. It’s also BYO, which many tables are using to their advantage. There’s a lunch party as well as a large family group of diners, with plenty of room for couples to spread out around the edges.

Somehow, we still find space for dessert: Saffron, pistachio and rose water ice cream, delicious enough to warrant an eye roll with a cup of Persian tea!

We leave Rumi feeling that we have only scratched the surface of Persian cuisine. We could embark on many more discovery journeys.

NOTE: Rumi is open late on Friday and Saturday nights for card and backgammon games. The restaurant offers a 10% discount for Bond and Griffith university students.

Marj Osborne Read more of Marj’s reviews on Good Food Gold Coast foodgoldcoast.com.au

BLACK HOPS A WINNER AT AIBAS Our very own Black Hops Brewery took out the Gold for their Beach House and Pink Mist brews at the Australian International Beer Awards in Melbourne recently. Their Pale Ale also took home the silver in its category. For takeaways, the brewery now stocks four-packs of award-winning Pale Ale as well as Eggnog Stout along with the Growler and Squealer fills for thirsty fans. In other news the Burleigh boys have released a limited edition stout called Band Wagon, inspired by none other than Aussie biscuit icon Wagon Wheel. What will they think of next?

It's like a musical family affair, with patrons encouraged to sing along.

DE VITO'S WATERFRONT 2 Barney Street, Southport

You get a certain sense of occasion when you're stepping up onto the wooden deck at De Vito's entrance, the Nerang River to your left sparkling with scattered city lights. The property is huge and seems almost purpose-built with large parties and functions in mind.

Inside the L-shaped dining and bar area, big families and older couples sit, chatting merrily and being greeted like family by the staff and restaurant's owner, classical singer David De Vito. The room is brightly lit, cheerful, humming with activity. A piano player on a low, pink-lit stage fills the area with music. It's an unexpected experience after the relative darkness and silence of the wooden deck and its gently lapping waters.

Our waiter Stefano is clearly a long-time hospitality professional. Quick, attentive, unobtrusive. I struggle to decide between Oysters Waterfront style (grilled with herb and cream sauce, parmesan and crumbs, $21 for half a dozen) or the Ricotta-stuffed Mushrooms ($16) while my companion seizes immediately upon the Arancini ($15).

Working off a recommendation, I veer instead towards the Gnocchi ($18) for my mezze sized entree.

Our dishes arrive, as much a feast for the eyes as the palate.

Tonight's ever-changing Arancini are ham and sundried tomato: crisp, hot and delicious, in a small amount of rich Italian tomato sauce that I could eat by the spoonful. The gnocchi are pillowy, pan-browned and lighter in texture than the norm, complemented wonderfully by a delicate basil cream sauce and toasted pinenuts. It's Italian fare without the heft and stodge, a deft touch and clever use of fine, simple ingredients.

it was close call with the crispy-skinned Barramundi and beurre blanc sauce ($36) nearly winning out.

The menu is elegant in its simplicity and well-worn techniques. No faffy, unpronounceable cookery or pretentious presentation. Just good quality fresh ingredients, cooked with care and in ways which allow their natural qualities to shine. It's a menu created by someone who genuinely understands food and places the value of flavour above the desire to keep up with all the latest trends.

The beef is, by far, the most tender, melt-in-the mouth meat of any description I have tried. Slowly and lovingly braised, it is served simply atop tender-crisp carrots, broccolini and duck fat potatoes, in a rich shiraz jus. The jus with the confit duck has a background of floral notes to it, perhaps some star anise and cloves going into its making. Also tender with a perfectly browned skin, the dish is deep in flavour, although slightly on the salty side for my friend's taste, who can only manage half of it.

By now completely stuffed, we gather up our courage and decide to take one for the team by ordering dessert. Our Creme Brulee ($16) and Sticky Date Pudding ($16) arrive promptly. The dessert menu of course also includes Tiramisu ($16) and Affogato ($10), however we found we couldn't go past our own personal faves. Unfortunately our brulee in this instance has very little crack in the sugar top and I feel it was also overdone and slightly separated, with a texture that was a smidge too firm and not completely smooth.

However my friend still enjoys it heartily. The creme brulee is definitely more delicate in flavour, a less-sweet option for those who find most dessert to be overbearing. The caramel sauce on the sticky date pudding is a deep colour, fresh and warm, and needs to be bottled so I can have some every day over icecream. It's a decent portion (no surprises by this point!) and packs a wonderfully sugary punch, which is not for the faint-of-heart.

Utterly satiated, we enjoy a few final tunes before heading home. De Vitos Waterfront is a charming restaurant, with flavour-packed, well-executed, fuss-free dishes and a unique and jovial vibe. If you like a side of singing with your sticky date or are after a place with a sense of occasion for a large party or function, it is ideally suited, and located less than a $10 Uber ride from Surfers Paradise.

You can book a table online for De Vitos Waterfront or call 5532 8376. Martini Mondays see tapas and martinis start at $10 from 6.00pm, a more affordable option for those who want the location and atmosphere without the three course price tag. They also do breakfast on Sundays and have a range of special holiday events and set menu deals.

Natalie O'Driscoll Natalie dined as a guest of De Vitos Waterfront

David and Tarscha sing a beautiful duet of The Prayer during the mains. Another vocalist Olwen, who runs the venue's $10 Martini Monday nights, gets the diners' toes tapping with a couple of faster swing numbers. The versatile pianist is now standing, playing trumpet against the backing tracks.

Our main issue at this point is that the size of the entree, as well as a couple of glass of a lovely Italian Pinot Grigio (Tiefenbrunner $48), have left us with limited room for the remainder of the meal. We sit back and stretch, aiming to let our starters settle. A lovely young chef comes out and grabs a roving microphone. The background music swells and she launches into a stunning rendition of At Last. The chef is David De Vito's fiance and fellow vocalist, Tarscha. She is a strong singer with a rich tone, and wanders through the restaurant smiling and grasping hands with the patrons. It's a lovely interlude in the evening.

Our mains arrive. We found the menu to have more of an Italian feel to it than to be packed to the brim with what most would consider to be standard Italian food, and so we eschewed the pasta menu ($26 - $34) for meatier fare, a braised Beef Cheek dish (also a recommendation, $36) for me and Confit Duck ($35) for my dining partner - although www.blankgc.com.au

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Friendship on a knife's edge in the Turn of Winston Haggle If you missed Gold Coast playwright RK Musgrave's play reading The Turn of Winston Haggle last year, never fear. This June it's back on the stage as a staged performance.

Filled with irony, this hilarious dark comedy follows the adventures of a bitter, misanthropic man, Winston Haggle, after his Aunt shockingly dies. With an entire retirement community pitted against him, he quickly finds himself with an opportunity to stick it to them all. The Turn of Winston Haggle hits The Space at The Arts Centre Gold Coast from 22 – 24 June. Visit theartscentregc.com.au for tickets.

Maverick Hair and Art Space present Shmick Creations

Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Photography Award 2017 Call for Entries Entries for Queensland’s richest prize for contemporary Australian photography, the Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Photography Award (JUWSPA) open now.

Established fifteen years ago, the annual award is considered one of the most important annual surveys of contemporary Australian photographic practice. In 2017 the award becomes one of Australia’s most generous photography prizes with the total prize value increased to $50,000.

Full details, including entry form and terms and conditions, is available online at theartscentregc.com.au/gallery, with submissions closing Friday 14 July.

Weaving illusions The local online art community and hub, Art Lovers Australia, and a Gold Coast contemporary art space, Left Bank Gallery, have joined forces in bringing a series of art exhibitions to the Gold Coast. The second exhibition of the series Weaving Illusions will introduce the local art loving community to two award winning Brisbane based artists, Jennifer Bell and Hayley Roberts. Weaving Illusions runs from 5 – 30 June in Left Bank Gallery in Southport with an opening night and an opportunity to meet the artists on Saturday 10 June.

Peter Pan and Tinkerbell land on the Coast Producer Bonnie Lythgoe has jetted back into the Gold Coast and is now busily preparing to welcome the wonderful cast set to star in The Adventures Of Peter Pan & Tinker Bell In Return to Pantoland. An amazing cast has been assembled including one of Australia’s favourite performers Todd Mckenney who will be joined by Hi-5 favourite Tim Maddren as ‘Peter Pan’; Jaime Hadwen as ‘Tinker Bell’; Katrina Retallick as ‘Mrs Darling’ and ‘Mimi the Magic Mermaid; former Australian girl band “Girlfriend” lead singer Robyn Loau as ‘Tiger Lilly’ and Mark Jones as ‘Smee’. The show will premiere on 23 June and will play until 1 July.

The Big Wave Projects hits the Gold Coast in June The Big Wave Project is the latest documentary by Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) Award-winning cinematographer and multi-award winning surf film producer, Tim Bonython. The Big Wave Project follows the evolution of Big Wave surfing over the last ten years, and travels to Australia, Tahiti and finally to Europe's new frontier of Nazaré, in Portugal. Featured surfers include Jamie Mitchell, Aaron Gold, Mark Healey, Ryan Hipwood, Grant “Twiggy” Baker and Billy Kemper, with insights from Peter Mel, big wave icon Greg Noll, and the legendary late Brock Little. Catch The Big Wave Project at BBC Cinemas Coolangatta on 9 June and Pacific Fair cinemas on 11 June. Visit ASMF. net.au for tickets.

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One of Australia’s latest emerging contemporary artists, Shmick is a freelance artist from Northern NSW, specialising in large scale murals, illustration, visual art installations and digital design. He channels great thought and creative energy into each piece, showing people something they may have never seen before. He does this through some of the most visually impressive graffiti pieces we’ve seen in a long time, using vibrant colours and shapes to explore deep into his imagination. This not-to-be missed exhibition runs at the Maverick Hair and Art Space 1/17 Griffith street, Coolangatta from 6.00pm Saturday June 3 until Saturday June 17.

Arts and Culture Sector Gathering Are you a practising artist, creative or cultural worker on the Gold Coast? Do you want to connect with other local artists?

Come along to the City of Gold Coast's Arts and Culture Sector Gathering. It will be a night of networking, conversation, collaboration, updates and opportunities.

Get in early from 5.30pm for cash bar and delicious food truck bites. The whole evening will wrap up at 9.00pm. We'll also have a short break around 7pm so you can refuel for the second part of the night. The event is being held on Tuesday 13 June 2017 at Warehouse No. 5, 87 West Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Heads. Cost is free. Email Ashleigh at cultural@goldcoast.qld.gov.au.

Local champions to head for the bright lights of Las Vegas The Greenroom Project Junior The Greenroom Project Junior returns these school holidays with its focus on discovering a new breed of Stars. Singers & Dancers aged 10+ (at any skill level) have the chance to take part in the 1 day Group Performers Workshop, while Singers aged 12 - 17 have the chance to audition to gain one of 16 spots in the 3 Day Performers Workshop and Solo showcase. Successful Featured Artists will get the chance to work one-on-one with our Greenroom Team, guest mentors and Matilda star Elise McCann, then showcase their talents in a live solo showcase. Visit thegreenroomproject.com.au for more.

Cooly Rocks On revs up Buckle up for the ride of your life at Cooly Rocks On™, Australia’s favourite celebration of 50s and 60s nostalgia, held at the beachside destinations of Coolangatta and Tweed Heads from 7-11 June 2017. Beaches, parklands, shops and cafes provide the perfect backdrop for around 1,300 custom and classic cars and hot rods, outdoor music stages, rock’n’roll and rockabilly bands, buskers, Miss Cooly Rocks On™ and Miss Rockabilly pageants, retro markets, and the much-loved Cooly Rocks On™ Street Parade. For more information visit coolyrockson.com.

Sound Connection all male chorus is poised to represent Australia at international competition in Las Vegas in July. To help with expenses, they are running a FUN CASINO fundraiser and show at the Helensvale Cultural Centre, 62 Sir John Overall Dr. on 17 June 7:00pm to 9:30pm.

Guests will receive $200.00 of ‘Fun Money’ as part of their ticket price. They also receive a complimentary drink on arrival and free snacks during the evening. The evening will include entertainment from both choruses and other acts, and promises to be night of entertainment and fun. Tickets are available from soundconnection.com.au.

The Walls get Xen

Black Mist Burnt Country

Kicking off The Walls 2017 Artist in Residence program, interdisciplinary artist Michelle Xen will engineer a Benevolent System II during her three month residency in the Mezzanine Studio throughout Autumn. Michelle's interdisciplinary practice oscillates between visual art, pop music, and the boundaries of performance. Her body of works sit within a spectrum from the contemporary visual art world, the independent music industry, to a range of hybrid spaces associated with contemporary experimental sound and performance.

Michelle's exhibition Benevolent System II and collaboration as one half of Lumen Cloud will open at The Walls on Saturday 3 June, 5.00 – 8.00pm.

Black Mist Burnt Country is a national touring exhibition of artworks by over 30 Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists commemorating the British atomic tests in Australia in the 1950s. Selected from both public and private collections the exhibition features artworks from the past seven decades, including Albert Tucker, Arthur Boyd, Ian Howard, Pam Debenham, Toni Robertson, Rosemary Laing among Aboriginal artists such as Jonathan Kumintjarra Brown, Judy Watson, Hilda Moodoo, Yvonne Edwards and others. The show runs at the Gold Coast City Gallery until 9 July.

Lisa Hunt (Soul Superstar)

4 June Advancetown Hotel, Nerang Murwillimbah Road, Advancetown (1pm-4.30pm) f: Advancetownhotel

8 Ball Aitken (Funky Foot Stomping Swampy Rock)

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FR

11 June Advancetown Hotel, Nerang Murwillimbah Road, Advancetown (1pm-4.30pm) f: Advancetownhotel

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Big Boyzz Toyzz

25 June Advancetown Hotel, Nerang Murwillimbah Road, Advancetown (1pm-4.30pm) f: Advancetownhotel

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MUDGEERABA SHOW

d’Arcy Doyle Art Awards 2017 (free)

28 June – 9 July Exhibition 29 June (Official Opening and Awards Night) Mudgeeraba Memorial Hall, Railway Street, Mudgeeraba (10am – 7pm)

Daniel Champagne (support Belle Badi) 1 July Mt Nimmel Hall, Austinville Road, Austinville (5pm-10pm) W.danielchampagnemusic.com

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24 June 8am-9pm & 25 June 8am – 4pm Mudgeeraba Showgrounds, Cnr Mudgeeraba Road & Worongary Road, Mudgeeraba w: goldcoast.qld.gov.au/events

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89th Mudgeeraba Agricultural Show

CITY OF

GOLDCOAST

TM

EVERY SATURDAY

PARKRUN

EVENT

EVERY SUNDAY

FARMERS MARKET

EVENT

SAT 27 MAY – SUN 9 JUL

BLACK MIST BURNT COUNTRY

EXHIBITION

THU 1 JUN

INTERMEZZO

MUSIC

FRI 2 JUN

THE STAMP SESSIONS

YOUTH

SUN 4 JUN

JAZZ ON SUNDAYS: THE ENTERPRISE MUSIC

WED 7 JUN

DUSTY AND THE DIVAS

MUSIC + DAYTIME

FRI 9 JUN

GOLD COAST JAZZ & BLUES CLUB

MUSIC

SAT 10 JUN

ARTLAB

WED 10 JUN

LITTLE ARTLAB

FRI 16 JUN

DOLL BY BABUSHKA

THU 22 THE TURN OF WINSTON HAGGLE – SAT 24 JUN

ART + WORKSHOP ART + WORKSHOP + KIDS MUSIC + DAYTIME THEATRE

FRI 23 JUN – SAT 1 JUL

THE ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN AND TINKER BELL IN RETURN TO PANTOLAND

MUSICAL + FAMILY

WED 28 JUN

MOVIE REVIEW CLUB

FILM + EVENT

Issue #45 JUNE 2017