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Australia’s largest regional arts centre opens in Geelong!

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We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the Geelong Arts Centre stands, the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past, to Elders present and to emerging leaders, recognising their continuing connection to land, water, culture and community.

Please note: all information within this ad is correct at time of print.

16-21 OCTOBER

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81 RYRIE ST, GEELONG ONLINE

GEELONGARTSCENTRE.ORG.AU

BALLARAT’S

Phil Manning (Chain), Geoff Achison, Jimi Hocking (Screaming Jets), Lloyd Spiegel (Special Guest), Fiona Boyes, Andrea Marr, Brett Garsed (John Farnham Band), The McNaMarr Project, Anna Scionti Trio, Joe Creighton (John Farnham Band), Riding Northbound, Eddy Boyle, Iseula, Shane Gilbert, and a performance from Ballarat Grammar and Clarendon College.

EDITOR

Talia Rinaldo

ASSISTANT EDITORS

Matt Wilkinson

Lucas Radbourne

PARTNERSHIPS & CAMPAIGN MANAGER

Matt Wilkinson

DESIGN

Nathan Mossop

DIRECTOR

Greg Pettinella

GIG GUIDE

Alex Callan

CONTRIBUTORS

Benjamin Lamb, Tammy Walters, Alex Callan, Chester Ogilvie, Chloe Cicero, Lucy Crock

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PUBLISHER

Furst Media Pty Ltd 03 9428 3600

Æ We’re buzzing this month as we celebrate the grand opening of Geelong Arts Centre’s dazzling new Little Malop Street Redevelopment on our cover. It’s Victoria’s cultural gem outside of Melbourne and now Australia’s largest regional arts centre – talk about a double whammy of awesomeness! Expect to find state-of-the-art facilities, flexible performance spaces, and an explosion of local, national, and international talent, all under one impeccably designed roof. Our cover may be alluring, but wait till you flip through the pages! We’ve snagged exclusive interviews with some music legends – The Presets, Ed Kuepper, G FLIP, BATTS, and Mad Caddies – all here to regale you with their stories and musical genius.

Feeling arty? We’ve got you covered with a truly breathtaking showcase of THE LUME Melbourne’s Connection. With over 550 artworks from more than 110 visual and musical artists, it’s the grandest celebration of First Peoples’ art ever assembled. Get ready to be captivated!

Oh, and the foodies among you are in for a treat! From a pasta bar on the Coast to a patisserie with daily housemade treats, and a vibrant Distillery, a Gin Kitchen, and a Tasting Room – we’ve got the culinary lowdown on all things delicious!

As always, we’ve got your back with album reviews, stage guides, art exhibitions, and a curated list of the region’s best gigs – you’ll never be short of entertainment options.

Get set for a culture-packed August! Stay groovy and enjoy the ride.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF TRADITIONAL OWNERS

Our magazine is published on the lands of the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation, and we wish to acknowledge them as Traditional Owners. We pay our respects to their elders, past, present and emerging.

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DISTRIBUTION

Forte Magazine will be distributed for free monthly to hundreds of regional Victoria locations. To enquire about having Forte Magazine at your venue email distribution@fortemag.com.au

Another month is here and so is another hot little issue of Forte to hold in your hands –your ultimate guide to all things cultural and oh-so-entertaining!

MISSY HIGGINS, XAVIER RUDD AND MORE ARE COMING TO TORQUAY IN DECEMBER

SummerSalt is back in Torquay this summer. Known for delivering cream of the crop artists to the great Australian outdoors, SummerSalt will take place at Torquay Common on Sunday, 3 December 2023 with a lineup featuring Missy Higgins, Xavier Rudd, The Cat Empire, Jack River, Hollow Coves and Steph Strings.

BALLARAT HAS ONCE AGAIN BEEN CROWNED VICTORIA’S BEST TOURISM DESTINATION

The regional town has now taken out Gold in the Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) 2023 TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards once again, having previously won the title back in 2021. Sorrento snatched the win for the Top Small Tourism Town and Aireys Inlet triumphed as the Top Tiny Tourism Town.

KRYAL CASTLE IS HOSTING A HIGHLAND SPECTACULAR

For two days only, on 19 and 20 August, the iconic medieval castle in Ballarat is transforming into a highland paradise, complete with pipe bands, highland dancing, clan tents, and of course, mouthwatering Scottish food and drink. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing a true highland gathering, this is your chance.

BOY & BEAR ANNOUNCE A SPECIAL SUNDAY SESSION AT TORQUAY HOTEL

Fresh from releasing their fifth studio album, ARIA-award-winning Aussie legends Boy & Bear have just added a second Torquay Show to their forthcoming regional tour in September. Already performing on Saturday night, the band has now announced a special and intimate Sunday session, performing on 17 September.

QUEENSCLIFF MUSIC FESTIVAL EXPANDS 2023 LINEUP

New additions for the November festival include iconic UK folk-punk troubadour Frank Turner and his band The Sleeping Souls; Katy Steele who owns one of the most undeniable, ethereal, dramatic voices this side of Kate Bush; First Nations pop duo The Merindas and ARIA nominated Georgia State Line, among others.

AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST BARBECUE FESTIVAL MEATSTOCK IS HEADING TO BENDIGO IN 2024

Having taken on Melbourne, Toowoomba and Sydney earlier this year, the BBQ and music festival is now mixing it up and adding regional Victoria to its list. In 2024, Meatstock will be heading to Bendigo on 16-17 March, as well as Hamilton on 24-25 February, Toowoomba on 8-10 March and Sydney on 19-21 March, with Melbourne seemingly replaced by the regional locations.

JONAS BROTHERS ANNOUNCE FIRST-EVER AUSTRALIAN TOUR

For the first time, the Jonas Brothers will be gracing Australian stages in March 2024, as part of their epic global tour ‘Five Albums, One Night’. Victorian fans will get the chance to catch the Jonas Brothers’ electrifying show with hit songs from all five of their albums at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne on 8 and 9 March.

AUSTRALIAN WOMEN IN MUSIC AWARDS ANNOUNCE 2023 FINALISTS

Jessica Mauboy, Sarah McLeod, Kate Ceberano, Beccy Cole, Vika & Linda and Geelong’s very own Lucinda Goodwin are among the exceptional list of finalists for this year’s Australian Women in Music Awards (AWMA) - one of the most important events on the Australian music industry calendar.

JON STEVENS BRINGS

HIS

EXPLOSIVE

THE NOISEWORKS &

INXS

COLLECTION TOUR TO GEELONG

Jon Stevens takes the stage once again to honour the iconic bands that catapulted him into Aussie Rock Royalty! The highly anticipated Noiseworks & INXS Collection Tour promises to be an unforgettable night of hits, featuring timeless classics like ‘Take Me Back’, ‘New Sensation’, ‘Touch’, ‘Don’t Change’, ‘Never Tear Us Apart’, ‘No Lies’, and many more. See the legend on the Costa Hall stage in Geelong on 7 October.

LIZ STRINGER ANNOUNCES ‘FIRST TIME… FOR THE LAST TIME’ SOLO TOUR

Much-loved Milk! Records recording artist and Melbourne singer/songwriter Liz Stringer caps off a busy 2023 and brings to an end her work on her acclaimed 2021 album First Time Really Feeling with her ‘First Time… For The Last Time’ solo tour this year. The tour kicks off on 6 October at Palais Hepburn in Hepburn Springs, Vic, and will take Liz to various locations across the country.

TIM MINCHIN IS BRINGING HIS ‘AN UNFUNNY EVENING’ WITH HIS PIANO TOUR TO GEELONG

Internationally renowned, award-winning musician, comedian, actor, writer and composer Tim Minchin is back. Expect to hear songs from his 2020 studio album, hits from his musicals and TV and film writing as well as his early songwriting days around the turn of the century. Catch the musical genius at Costa Hall in Geelong on 19 & 20 January 2024.

URZILA CARLSON HAS ANNOUNCED SECOND SHOWS IN GEELONG AND BALLARAT

Hot on the heels of the Just No! sold-out metro tour, multi-award-winning South African-New Zealander Urzila Carlson is taking her Just No! tour to seven regional cities in November. Now Carlson has just added a bunch of second shows due to popular demand! Locally, she’ll now perform two shows in Ballarat and Geelong in early November.

SPILT MILK UNVEILS ITS MASSIVE 2023 LINEUP

Spilt Milk, Australia’s fastest-selling music, food, and arts festival, is set to ignite the festival scene once again with its highly anticipated 2023 lineup. Featuring Post Malone and Dom Dolla in the top slots, alongside Cub Sport, Budjerah, Dermot Kennedy, Ocean Alley, and Lastlings, this one-day festival is set to head to Ballarat on 2 December.

THE BRIAN JONESTOWN MASSACRE ARE COMING TO CASTLEMAINE

ANGIE MCMAHON ANNOUNCES TWO SPECIAL AUSTRALIAN HEADLINE SHOWS FOR SEPTEMBER

The celebrated Aussie singer’s September live shows come in celebration of McMahon’s highly anticipated second album Light, Dark, Light Again, set for release on 27 October. See her at Melbourne’s Northcote Theatre on 28 September.

THE LIVING END CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF DEBUT ALBUM WITH A ONEOFF MELBOURNE SHOW

Celebrating a momentous milestone, the band are releasing a special anniversary edition of ‘The Living End’ album on 13 October and performing an extraordinary one-off hometown show in November. Taking to Festival Hall, the band will perform their iconic debut album in its entirety, along with all their other hits, rarities, and deep cuts.

SUICIDAL TENDENCIES CELEBRATES 40TH ANNIVERSARY WITH AUSTRALIAN TOUR

In celebration of their landmark self-titled debut album, the legendary Suicidal Tendencies is hitting our shores for their ‘Still Cyco Punk After All These Years’ tour. Melbourne, get ready to rock with Suicidal Tendencies at Croxton Bandroom on 17 November. They’ll be performing the “Suicidal Tendencies” debut album in full.

PAUL MCCARTNEY ANNOUNCES 2023 GOT BACK AUSTRALIAN TOUR

Marking the first Australian dates in six years, Paul McCartney will bring his acclaimed Got Back Tour to Australia this October/November! McCartney was last in Australia in December 2017 (which saw him win a Helpmann Award for Best International Contemporary Concert in 2018 beating the likes of Ed Sheeran), wowing audiences nationwide with a near three-hour show. McCartney remains one of the most influential figures in the history of popular music.

Psychedelic rock icons The Brian Jonestown Massacre are set to bring their distinct brand of psychedelic rock to Australia this November. Headed by music visionary Anton Newcombe and an ever-changing cast of other characters, the band will be playing new material as well as favourites pulled from their vast archive. Catch them at Theatre Royal, Castlemaine on 22 November.

THE LOCAL WORD WRITERS FESTIVAL RETURNS TO GEELONG

Celebrating books, writers and readers, Geelong Regional Libraries launches the second iteration of Local Word Writers Festival. With various panel discussions, writers’ workshops and presentations, this exciting two-day event will take place on 25 and 26 August at the Geelong Library & Heritage Centre and several libraries around Geelong, showcasing the extraordinary talent of this region’s writers and creatives!

MELBOURNE ROCK BAND RVG ANNOUNCE ANGLESEA SHOW

The Romy Vader Group will be hitting the road this spring in support of their highly-acclaimed third album, Brain Worms. Moody and relentless, it’s a fusion of postpunk and alternative rock with a vintage twang. Catch them at Anglesea Memorial Hall on 6 October.

CRICKET’S BIG BASH LEAGUE BRINGS THE MELBOURNE RENEGADES BACK TO GEELONG

The Melbourne Renegades have announced that once again they are bringing the juggernaut that is the Twenty20 Big Bash League back to our doorstep. The Renegades confirmed their loyalty to the Geelong region, with the Renegades’ KFC BBL|13 home opener against the Perth Scorchers set to take place at GMHBA Stadium at Kardinia Park on 10 December.

TEEN JESUS AND THE JEAN TEASERS ANNOUNCE NATIONAL I LOVE YOU ALBUM TOUR

Rising punk rock sensations, Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, are all set to ignite the music scene with their exhilarating debut album ‘I Love You’ dropping on 6 October and a national tour to celebrate, with shows across Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and two stops in WA. Capping off a huge year, they’ll also be supporting Foo Fighters at AAMI Stadium in December.

WORDS IN WINTER IS CELEBRATING 20 YEARS WITH A THOUGHTPROVOKING LINEUP

From 25 – 27 August this year, Hepburn Shire’s Words in Winter festival is hosting a festival of art, literature, music and food with a program featuring the likes of Jon Faine, Marieke Hardy, Alicia Sometimes and more.

DICE ARE HEADING TO TORQUAY ON AUSTRALIAN TOUR

Perth-based indie-rock sensation DICE are bringing their revered alt-rock repertoire and a string of crowd-pleasers across Australia. This highly anticipated tour follows the success of their sold-out May-June tour in support of their sophomore EP, Time Will Tell. Catch them when they head to Torquay Hotel for a show on 28 September.

MULTI-PLATINUM POP STAR LAUV ANNOUNCES AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES

For the first time since 2019, singer, songwriter, producer and break-out pop sensation Lauv will be heading to Australia for a short run of dates. The artist is currently between albums and has subsequently launched his Between Albums world tour. See the show at Forum Theatre, Melbourne on 23 & 24 October.

THE OUTDOOR GALLERY OF PHOTOGRAPHY UNVEILED IN CENTRAL GEELONG

Local photographer Jane Fitzgerald has curated an outdoor laneway photography exhibition, showcasing the extraordinary talents of 12 local photographic artists. Adhered to a laneway wall in Dennys’s place, each photograph featured in the installation is accompanied by an information QR code, providing viewers with a gateway to further explore the artist’s portfolio. Explore the gallery for free at Denny’s Place in Geelong.

VICTORIA’S RURAL THREEDAY SUMMER FESTIVAL OK MOTELS UNVEILS ITS FIRST LINEUP

Heading to Charlton in February, OK MOTELS’ first lineup is led by The Slingers, who are riding high on the success of their debut album, Sentimentalism. Watty Thompson & his Total Fire Band will deliver their unique flavour of heartfelt country-folk melodies alongside Melbourne buzz band, The Belair Lip Bombs, with more artists to be announced.

SHORT STACK ARE HEADING TO TORQUAY

From adorning countless Myspace pages in the early 2000s to proving that pop punk is alive and well decades later, beloved Budgewoi rockers Short Stack are back, playing their first shows since the soldout capital city comeback tour, taking on regional Australia for the first time in over a decade. Locally, they’ll perform at the Torquay Hotel in Torquay on 7 October.

IRISH SINGER-SONGWRITER DERMOT KENNEDY IS COMING TO THE BOWL

From busking on the streets of Dublin to selling out stadiums around the world, Irish singer-songwriter Dermot Kennedy has won over fan after fan with his passionate and burning lyrics that speak truth and honesty, delivering compelling music from the heart that connects with people across the globe. Witness The Sonder Tour under the stars at the iconic Sidney Myer Music Bowl on 24 November.

A HUGE TRIBUTE TO FLEETWOOD MAC IS HEADING TO NORTHCOTE

Get transported back in time to the heyday of Fleetwood Mac as Yesterday’s Gone makes its way to Melbourne on 20 October at Northcote Theatre. Paying homage to Fleetwood Mac’s enduring legacy, Lisa Mitchell, Kav Temperley (of Eskimo Joe fame), Charlie Collins, and Karen Lee Andrews are all acclaimed stars in their own right.

WINTERBOURNE ARE HEADING TO GEELONG AND BALLARAT

Winterbourne has made a name for themselves through their hands-on approach to music, involved in every aspect from writing and recording to producing and directing their videos and artwork. Catch the duo when they head to Barwon Club in Geelong on 2 September and Volta in Ballarat on 3 September.

SIMPLE MINDS, ICEHOUSE LEAD THE RED HOT SUMMER TOUR LINEUP

Red Hot Summer Tour is back with its second series of scorching outdoor shows that will have you dancing and singing along to iconic hits. Heading to Mornington, Yarra Valley, Bribie Island, and Perth in February 2024, this mega-lineup will be co-headlined by none other than Simple Minds and Icehouse.

SEAROAD FERRIES BRINGS BACK ITS $20 FERRY LOTTERY CAMPAIGN

Kicking off in July, the winter campaign runs for eight weeks and provides the public with a chance to win hundreds of cheap ferry tickets. By taking part in the lottery, punters have a chance to win one of 21 return ferry tickets each week for only $20. Each ticket, usually valued at $183, provides a driver, passenger and vehicle return travel across the Bay between Queenscliff and Sorrento.

MS. LAURYN HILL ANNOUNCES AUSTRALIAN HEADLINE TOUR

Hip-hop and soul legend, Ms. Lauryn Hill, gears up to mark the 25th anniversary of her groundbreaking album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, with two unmissable Australian arena performances. Adding to the magic of the evening, Jamaican reggae sensation, Koffee, will join as the special guest. Catch her at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on 3 October.

ENTRIES ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE $10,000 UPSTART AWARD

Funded by a music-loving family in Melbourne, the UpStart Award is an annual grant of $10,000 to an emerging Victoria singer-songwriter. The award will be adjudicated by a panel consisting of Victorian artists Angie McMahon and Shane Howard, and a range of industry experts from community radio, retail, and streaming services. Applications close at midnight 31 August. The winner will be announced in mid-November.

BOUNDARY-PUSHING DARK ARTS FESTIVAL WINTERWILD EXPANDS ITS THREE-DAY PROGRAM

Apollo Bay’s famous boundary-pushing dark arts festival WinterWild is right around the corner on 25–27 August, presenting three days of music, art, food and fire to embrace the dark beauty of winter. The festival has just announced new additions to the incredible program, including viral comedian Nat’s What I Reckon, A Night at the Museum and the famed cemetery tours.

DIESEL BRINGS GREATEST HITS ALONE WITH BLUES TOUR TO GEELONG

One of Australia’s finest musicians Diesel is back and taking his captivating Greatest Hits Alone With Blues Tour to theatres across the country! This extraordinary showcase of Diesel’s greatest hits combined with his love for the blues promises an intimate two-set solo concert that will leave audiences wanting more. Locally he will perform at The Story House at the Geelong Arts Centre on 15 October.

SAFIA ANNOUNCES AUSTRALIAN TOUR

With their forthcoming third studio album, A Lover’s Guide to a Lucid Dream due out on 22 September, SAFIA has announced a national tour, kicking off in Canberra in October and taking the band on a mesmerizing journey across the country until they reach Perth in December. Catch them at The Forum, Melbourne on 18 November.

TEX PERKINS ANNOUNCES THE MAN IN BLACK TOUR, CELEBRATING THE SONGS OF JOHNNY CASH

Tex Perkins returns to the stage with a brand-new show playing the songs of Johnny Cash. Tex Perkins – The Man In Black takes us on a fast-paced, rollicking rock ‘n’ roll journey to the heart of the music. With some of his best-loved songs, this unique concert is set to satisfy Johnny Cash fans all over again. Locally, he’ll bring the show to Ballarat Civic Hall, Ballarat and Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo on 7 and 8 October, respectively.

NAT’S WHAT I RECKON IS COMING TO BARWON HEADS

Viral comedy champion, rock musician, mental health advocate and award-winning, best-selling author Nat’s What I Reckon has been busy touring around the country with his new ‘Yeah Righto’ show, and now he’s heading to the coast for an especially entertaining evening of piss-taking this August. He’ll swing into the Barwon Heads Hotel on 24 August.

NECK DEEP ARE HEADING TO AUSTRALIA FOR A NATIONAL TOUR THIS YEAR

Beloved Welsh pop-punk rockers Neck Deep are heading back to Australia this year, confirming a national tour in September. The band – founded in 2012 after vocalist Ben Barlow met former lead guitarist Lloyd Roberts – will kick off the tour on 5 September at The Forum in Melbourne. Joining them for all dates will be Australian duo Yours Truly, a must-watch band in the current alternative scene.

FESTIVAL FUN SWEEPS GEELONG ARTS CENTRE GRAND OPENING FESTIVAL

The countdown is officially on until 19 August, when Geelong Arts Centre will throw open those snazzy Little Malop Street doors to the public with an epic four-week-long Grand Opening Festival.

Æ The team at Geelong Arts Centre promised “something for everyone” and boy did they mean it! Tickets have been selling like hotcakes, but there’s still so much on offer, from ticketed performances to a range of free events.

The unreal festival lineup includes some of the best music on offer, from Australian fan favourite Missy Higgins to the incredible operatic stylings of Rossini in The Barber of Seville (Opera Australia) and glittery homegrown hit musical Priscilla (CentreStage). Plus, festival-goers can also relive the soundtrack to their lives with Pseudo Echo – The Ultimate Tour celebrating all things 80s avant-garde, and Two of Us – The Songs of Lennon & McCartney; a magical, acoustic portrait of the songs that changed the world, performed by Darren Coggan and Damien Leith.

For those looking to really scratch that funny bone, don’t miss A-grade funny man, Ross Noble, as he embarks on his 21st solo stand-up tour with Jibber Jabber Jamboree; an evening full of the sort of inspired nonsense that has cemented his place as the supreme master of ‘stream of conscious freewheeling stand-up’.

But that’s not all! After captivating audiences at Melbourne Fringe Festival, Adelaide Fringe, and across the ditch at NZ Fringe Festival, A Lovely Day To Be Online joyfully makes its fateful homecoming, gracing the stage of Geelong Arts Centre’s The Open House theatre in September. Singer-songwriter and self-obsessed internet addict Connor Morel fronts a live band in this original comedic gig-theatre show that asks: are we doing the internet right? And would life just be easier without it all?

Credit: Emma Goodland

Of course, the Grand Opening Festival wouldn’t be complete without a broad variety of diverse theatre shows on offer! In an interactive digital presentation – part onscreen, and partly in your hand on mobile – Rich Kids: A History of Shopping Malls in Tehran takes you on a whirlwind journey into the world of the excessive lifestyle of Iran’s young elite (Riverside’s National Theatre of Parramatta with The Javaad Alipoor Company). Or celebrate Indigenous culture through storytelling, original songs, and dance with multi-award winning performance RECKŌNING (Beat Entertainment and Regional Arts Victoria), tackling the modern-day effects of racism and intergenerational trauma. And be sure to catch Miss Peony (Belvoir St Theatre) – a brand new comedy from Michelle Law, writer of the smash hit Single Asian Female. Bringing with it glitz, glamour and ghostliness, Miss Peony is performed in English, Cantonese and Mandarin with subtitles in all three languages, making it inclusive for multilingual friends and family members.

Plus, from 19 – 27 August, Geelong Arts Centre’s Open House will transform into a mesmerising realm where art meets sustainability for Oasis; an extraordinary art installation by award-winning Australian arts group The Indirect Object that transports you to a meticulously constructed island world. First developed in association with members of the Norlane Community Centre, this immersive experience uses sustainable recycled materials to breathe life into organic forms, inviting you to explore and question the boundaries of art. Committed to providing accessible arts experiences for all, between 24 – 26 August, the Oasis sessions running from 10am - 1pm will operate as Relaxed Experiences. Specifically for this Relaxed Experience, the space will be partially lit to create a brighter environment, reduced music volume, and no theatrical haze/smoke effect will be used.

As we know, Geelong is a thriving hub of unbelievable community theatre and dance talent, and you bet that’s being celebrated as part of the Grand Opening festivities! On Sunday 20 August, Geelong Arts Centre will host a free Community Open Day, boasting showcase performances from an array of incredible theatre and dance groups from the region. The lineup includes more than 20 acts across The Play House and The Story House stages between 10am and 4pm. Register free online for a morning or afternoon session and be dazzled by the calibre of our local talent!

GEELONG ARTS CENTRE’S WONDER CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL

Æ Victoria, get ready to be enchanted when Geelong Arts Centre presents its inaugural Wonder Children’s Festival: where wonder takes centre stage!

From 16 – 21 October, immerse your little ones in the magical world of the arts and prepare for an extraordinary journey filled with wonderment, joy, and boundless curiosity, as children aged up to 12 years are invited to experience the transformative power of the arts like never before.

With an incredible lineup of free and ticketed events, including dazzling headline performances from Indigenous dance powerhouse Bangarra, a concert extraordinaire from pioneering local children’s entertainers The Mik Maks, First Nations dance workshops, a Tweens disco night, and even the opportunity to create music using real-life plants with Playable Streets, Geelong Arts Centre’s Wonder Children’s Festival is designed to captivate the hearts and minds of all young, avid arts adventurers.

Taking place right across Geelong Arts Centre’s freshly transformed venues, watch their eyes light up as they witness high-quality performances that transport them to enchanting worlds and leave them in awe of the talent on stage.

Plus, unleash their creativity with amazing interactive workshops and installations, where they can dance, sing, play music, and explore their own artistic expression. Geelong Arts Centre’s Wonder Children’s Festival is more than just a spectator event –it’s an opportunity for young people to become active participants in the magic. Let their imaginations run wild as they step into the spotlight and get involved in the artistic process.

Give the young people in your life the opportunity to discover, create, and connect with the world of performing arts in a way that will leave a lasting impact.

Check out what’s on, and book now via the website to be a part of a truly Wonder-ful experience that will ignite their passion for the arts and create treasured memories for years to come.

GRAND OPENING FESTIVAL

WHERE: LITTLE MALOP STREET, GEELONG

WHEN: 19 AUG - 23 SEP

Credit: Michelle Grace Hunder

BATTS A JOURNEY OF MUSIC AND MENTAL HEALTH

WORDS BY ALEX CALLAN

Æ There’s a common misconception that musicians live a life of luxury, free from the worries of the real world. But behind the scenes, the truth can be quite different. In actuality, the life of a musician is quite often a rough slog, filled with late nights, time on the road, pressure from fans and labels, and measly pay cheques.

For Tanya Batt, known as BATTS, this is a truth that’s all too real. Earlier this year, the Melbourne-based artist made the courageous decision to call an indefinite hiatus on touring so that she could have a much-needed mental health sabbatical.

“I didn’t really have much of a choice,” she candidly reveals.

“I suffer from vestibular migraines and PPPD (Persistent Postural Perceptual Dizziness) and I’ve been on medication for them for a really long time. I had to come off the meds for other reasons and the withdrawals were hard.”

Withdrawal from prescription medication can have severe side effects, both physically and mentally. For BATTS, it led to panic attacks and anxiety about performing. To avoid associating her love for music with such challenges, she decided to step back from the stage.

“It’s often forgotten how severe withdrawal from prescription meds is. It takes a very large toll on the mind and body and has a lot of severe side effects. I was having 20 panic attacks a day from the withdrawals and then having to play shows around it. It created a connection between the two and I started becoming really anxious about playing shows, which was never something I’d felt before,” she explains.

“I just thought, I don’t want to fuse those things together. I don’t want that to be my normal bodily reaction to playing live when that’s never been the case before. So it was just a matter of saying— I can’t. I can’t handle the energy that I have to give on stage right now. I just had to step back.

“And I wish I had more time off, but unfortunately I had to write an album in a very short amount of time, so I kind of just went straight into writing, which is a very solitary process. But it’s also a nice way to process everything.”

Finding solace in writing songs, as soon as the mention of her new material came to light, you could hear the enthusiasm creep back into her voice, alongside an element of surprise.

“I’m pretty shocked that it’s written,” she laughs. “I don’t know how I’ve managed to do it. I just took a week off work and was like,

‘Alright, I’m going to write the album,’ and I got seven songs done that week, which was a blessing.

“But even though I knew writing was what I had to do, I was really struggling to find words. So I was reading Jeff Tweedy’s book ‘How to Write One Song’, which has a lot of really amazing techniques in it.”

Setting up a schedule and immersing herself in songwriting exercises, she managed to produce a collection of her best work yet.

“I’d wake up and do exercises from that book for the first two hours of each day. And it helped, I ended up creating a lot of words and lyrics by doing that.

“Which is not how I normally write,” she continues. “Normally, I’d just pick up my guitar and start playing and if something comes out, it comes out. But I didn’t have time for that, so I really had to push myself in a different direction. And I’m very grateful for it because I think it’s some of my best work and I’m very excited as I’m hearing it all come alive in the studio.”

After stepping into previously uncharted areas as a songwriter, Batt has found that her most recent work has begun to touch on complex new themes, straying away from the conceptual nature of her earlier work for a more introspective approach.

“As I’m looking back on this album I’ve kind of realised that a lot of it is me talking a lot to my younger self about moving onto the next chapter of life. I’d love to become a mum soon, so when I look back on when I was a child, or myself in my younger 20s, I’m looking at it as almost a separate person.

“A lot of the messages on this album are kind of me talking to that younger self and processing that chapter of my life, from the perspective of a new chapter.”

Reinvigorated and eager to share her music again, BATTS is excited about making her comeback at the Wanderer Festival this September, alongside the likes of Sampa The Great, Ben Lee, and Kevin Morby.

“I’m very, very excited. It’ll be my first show back and I’m super excited to get back on the stage. It’s such a good lineup as well.

“It’s going to be a killer time.”

WANDERER FESTIVAL

WHERE: PAMBULA BEACH, NSW

WHEN: 29 SEP - 01 OCT

Credit: Lisa Businovski

DIDIRRI

‘Caught in the Act’ in debut album

WORDS BY LUCY CROCK

Æ Didirri’s highly anticipated debut album, Caught In The Act is finally here, and it’s his most breathtakingly honest and artistically mature work yet.

The eleven-track record is dripping with unfiltered songwriting, emotive vocal tone and soothing melodies. Trademarks that established the young artist as an important Australian voice to watch after his first two Eps, Sold for Sale (2020) and Measurements (2018).

Didirri Peters already has an impressive string of accolades behind him, with sold-out local and international tours, and performances at Splendour In The Grass, The Great Escape, Latitude, and Primavera Sound, supporting Kate Miller Heidke on her Australian tour, as well as receiving over 75 million streams globally and an ARIA gold-accreditation for his release ‘Blind You’.

Now, his debut album, flourishing with introspection and nuance, proves the 28-year-old’s profound commitment to truthful storytelling, peeling back another layer of the already-authentic artist with reflections on anxiety, romance, grief, uncertainty, passion, and dread.

“The record title, Caught In The Act, came about when I was thinking about Imposter Syndrome. If someone were to see that I am not necessarily what they think I am, would they be okay with it?” Peters says.

“ I Wanted It Easier Than This really kind of summed up the feeling I had going into the record. The song goes through the

prospect of being yourself and not presenting a more palatable version of yourself to people.

“When people see my true self, I feel like I’m getting caught out and it’s actually a really pleasant experience.”

Already, cuts from the album including ‘Begin Again’, ‘Obsolete Machine’ and ‘You Know What’s Good For You’ have played on community radio, been playlisted across Apple Music, Spotify and Amazon and added to double j and ABC, and received praise from the likes of NME, MILKY and Happy Mag.

Written during the global pandemic, the eleven new tracks weave together this tapestry of life lessons and sonic influences, visiting subjects and questions society steers clear of.

“The theme of death and finality is really woven through the record too. I lost two family members during Covid, and it just really put things into perspective.

“You really do have a limited amount of time to enjoy what you do on this planet. There’s a lot of contemplation on that in ‘Obsolete Machine’ and ‘Begin Again’ in particular.

“Obsolete Machine is about my body… a machine that’s going to one day break down and the work that you do and the love and relationships that you cultivate over your life, they’re finite - and that’s kind of what makes it beautiful.

“There’s a reason that plastic flowers aren’t as pretty as real flowers.”

Recorded at Sauna Studios in Melbourne and co-produced with Rob Muinos (Julia Jacklin, Nat Vazer), the record blends what we’ve always loved about Peters’ sound while bringing it into a new era.

“Rob’s production is really central to the whole development,” Peters says.

“He’s the first producer I’ve had who has a solid opinion, and he’s not afraid to say it.

“It was a really trusting experience, making the record.

“This record is very raw. It was recorded live in the room and all the microphones are bleeding. We didn’t isolate the bass or drums or guitar… It was very much a product of live musicians listening to each other.

“Sam Rains and Richard Bradbeer are the bass player and drummer… they just have a friendship and a musical connection that really is the heart and soul of the record.”

The album also features Peters’ partner and fellow singer-songwriter, Rowena Wise.

“She’s a vital part in the way things get written now… It’s a really special musical moment for us.

“She has a record coming out next year that feels very much like a sibling record to this one, they were written and recorded around the same time, with Rob producing her record as well.”

In the album, we hear a tapestry of influences, with tape delay reminiscent of Emmylou Harris, songwriting inspired by Bob Dylan and Big Theif, and the live band sound inspired by Tom Waits’ 1999 record, Mule Variations

Now Peters is getting ready to hit the road with a full band for a 10-date Australian Tour, beginning with four Victorian shows in Anglesea, Castlemaine and Melbourne.

“It’s going to be really nice just to go home and be on the road, but in my comfort zone.

“As community and people, we evolved to need each other, and I think music is this really special thing in the room that can’t be replaced…. And meeting people is just an essential part of that.”

DIDIRRI - THE CAUGHT IN THE ACT TOUR

Credit: Ian Laidlaw

HEALING SKA’S MAD CADDIES COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY

WORDS BY TAMMY WALTERS

Æ “I’ve really realised that since coming back on the road and spending a lot more time this year on the three tours we’ve done this far, connecting with the fans and just standing at the merch after the show and talking to people - and there’s so many middle-aged people our age now bringing their nine to 15-year-old kids to the show and I love signing the kids stuff and taking pictures with the families - ”, Chuck Robertson pauses for a moment.

“But I’ve heard so many stories about mental health. It’s hard for me to talk about. I get emotional… but I’ve realised how much our music has helped people through some really shitty times. That’s the greatest part about my job, is when I get to hear those stories.”

Mad Caddies bassist, Jon Gazi, and I offer empathetic halfsmiles across the Brady Bunch-tiled zoom screen, the only form of comfort we can muster as we desperately attempt to tighten the faucet on our tear ducts; the realisation of the cyclical impact of music and community bearing down on us.

Across 30 minutes, both Robertson and Gazi continue to commend their fans, along with divulging the inner workings of Mad Caddies, sharing laughs over stories, unpacking sad divorce songs set to upbeat reggae rhythms, and holding a candle to the sacrality of ska. But it’s evident that the conversational clamps holding the Caddies’ outfit together is their community.

The band have been around since 1995 however with a rotating door of talent stepping onto the Caddies course, 34 core and touring musicians total, Robertson the only mainstay remaining. Last year an overhaul of the band saw the lineup induct Sean Sellers on drums and Brandon Landelius; a band now equipped to provide the best show for their live audience.

“After Covid, there was a lot of restructuring. People decided they wanted to do other things with their lives - you know, family members were sick, new family members were born, the cycle of

life and the ones that wanted to keep going got together earlier this year to record an album and get three tours under our belt. I don’t know if Jon agrees with me but I think it’s the best the band has sounded at least for a decade. There’s a youthful energy and we’re all smiling and the crowd loves it and we love it. It doesn’t feel like work right now,” Robertson explains.

Gazi echoes, “It transpires to that symbiotic connection of the people; to the people in the crowd and to the people that are on stage. And everybody’s just really, really happy and excited to be up there on the stage these days where we really connect. And I think it really just flows right out to everybody.”

They will be bringing this revitalisation to Australia in December for a national tour and a headline appearance at the ska-specific festival, Ska Nation, in what will be their first drink from the Down Under waters in 10 years.

However, first Mad Caddies are due to release their eighth studio album. A follow-up from the self-described 2020 sad divorce EP, House of Fire, and the punk-reimagining covers album Punk Rocksteady in 2018, the lads have already been teasing tracks, with fan-dedicated single ‘Run’ leading their encore.

“There’s tear-jerker horns lines and a few songs that dig at you. It’s certainly Caddies by this guy right here - it’s Chuck pouring his heart out. It’s very special and everyone is going to get it and they’re going to love it,” explains Gazi.

“It’s a very personal record. We lost our jobs for two and a half years and I went into the woodshed and I wrote over 100 songs…but this one is a Mad Caddies record with definitely two or three country Americana twinge songs, but with rad horns,” adds Robertson.

“There are two sad songs, one is called ‘Run’ and I wrote it for the fans. It’s about everyone disappearing and I’m asking ‘Where did they run to?’. But I try to at least put inspirational, uplifting messages that will pick people up because that’s the most important thing about what we do.”

Just like the latter half of their name, Mad Caddies have become a beacon of music moral support throughout their career, carrying the stories of their community with them and beaming brightly both on and off the stage. Their ears will be open to hearing more after their Warrion, Ska Nation and Corner Hotel appearances, on 16, 17 and 19 December respectively.

“We’ll hang out and chat to people until everyone is gone,” Robertson assures.

Chuck Robertson chokes up, lifting his glasses and wiping tears from his eyes. He has a swig of his beer. He has just finished explaining how everything his band, Mad Caddies, does is for the fans.

SKA NATION MUSIC FESTIVAL WARRION, VICTORIA 16 & 17 DEC

THE PRESETS

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF ELECTRIFYING MUSIC AND INTIMATE GIGS

WORDS BY BENJAMIN LAMB

Æ Back in 2003, the music world was gifted records like Norah Jones’ Come Away With Me and 50 Cent’s Get Rich or Die Tryin’, and the charts saw Eminem, Bon Jovi, and Jennifer Lopez take top spots. But in Australia, Kim Moyes and Julian Hamilton were just getting started and joined forces to create The Presets, a powerhouse act set to be a major player in the world of Electronic Music.

Making waves for two glorious decades now, The Presets have four records under their belt, received international recognition, and won ARIA, APRA, UK Music Video and J Awards. They’re now celebrating 20 remarkable years on their 20 Years 20 Nights Toura heartfelt nod to the pair’s early roots and an opportunity to bring festival energy to intimate venues across Australia.

“The part of why we’re doing this is to throwback to some of our earliest shows,” vocalist Julian Hamilton says. “There’s a lot of venues and a lot of areas we don’t get to perform in anymore, so rather than a few dates across the country, it’s 26 smaller venues.

“Sometimes you’ll go to a small place, and you’re not sure what to expect, then it can end up being one of the most rockin’ parties you play all year.”

The tour sees The Presets gracing stages in Torquay, Mulgrave, and Frankston, often corners of Victoria that don’t receive as much live music as city centres. Opting for a more intimate approach, the venues also are smaller than what The Presets usually play, which brings a different energy to their performance.

“When you’re playing a small room to 200 people, they’re right in your face. There’s something really immediate and really visceral about that experience. Some of the shows we used to play, we’d set up on the dancefloor, they were fun; they’d be in-yourface wild parties.

“Cut to today where we’re playing on a festival stage; we’re literally situated 20 feet above the crowd and 50 feet away. Over time, you learn different ways to fill the space and we’ve had a lot of experience with being able to do that over the years”.

20 years seems like a tough feat for many artists out there, but The Presets have forged their way in a genre and industry that’s seen a lot of changes across the last two decades.

“I really like where we’ve ended up,” Julian adds, considering whether he would’ve done anything differently. “Along the way, you

see others performing in a way that you think ‘Oh, I wish I did it that way, or I wish I tried this’.

“There’s always things along the way that you could have done better, but I love where we’ve ended up, it’s worked out great.”

Reflecting on their incredible 20-year journey, Julian acknowledges that maintaining their distinct sound has been the key to their success. As musicians and perfectionists, The Presets have always held their music to high standards, making sure each song satisfies their creative vision.

“When you’re making a new song or making new music, you’ve always got quality control in your own head, sort of saying, ‘this idea is not good enough’, or ‘this idea sounds too much like another thing’.

“I just always wanted to sort of win the battle of ‘does this music satisfy us’? We’re such tough judges on our own stuff. That might be the reason why over 20 years, we’ve only put out four albums,” Julian adds with a laugh.

In an ever-changing music industry, Julian recognizes that the path to success has evolved significantly since The Presets’ debut, with what it takes to break out in 2023 vastly different from how it was in 2003.

“Some of my favourite DJs and electronic from overseas, they’ve got their own music out, they put things on Soundcloud, they’re DJing on social media, so it looks like they’ve already made it. It’s such a different climate out there [compared to 2003], there’s so many good acts that are doing amazing things.

“I go through playlists, and suddenly you stumble across 20 artists that have music that’s super dope, they’ve got all this equipment and are doing gigs all over Europe. It’s super cool, it’s certainly something that wasn’t around when we first started.”

As part of the 20 Years 20 Nights Tour, The Presets will be sharing the stage with emerging local clubland talent, with many acts listing The Presets as influences.

Kicking off the tour back in July, local fans can expect an unforgettable night filled with nostalgic tunes, electrifying energy, and the unmistakable charisma of The Presets when they head to Torquay this August or St Kilda in September.

As Julian aptly puts it, “Come and have a boogie, you won’t regret it!”

“Sometimes you’ll go to a small place, and you’re not sure what to expect, then it can end up being one of the most rockin’ parties you play all year.”

KNOW YOUR PRODUCT

THE EXPLODING UNIVERSE OF ED KUEPPER

WORDS BY TAMMY WALTERS

thought [going solo] was really this necessary type of thing for me to do in terms of not having a permanent band. I thought it would just give me a lot more freedom to do a whole lot of things I wanted to do without having to consider what other people wanted to do. Sounds selfish, which I guess is, but I think I had to do it,” Kuepper explains.

The opening subject game from ABC’s lifeblood music show, Spicks and Specks, came in the form of Know Your Product, a sneaky homage to one of Australia’s most significant bands, The Saints. As trailblazers in exporting the Australian punk scene, The Saints stirred sensation across the Commonwealth. The writer of the vision board was cofounder, Ed Kuepper.

Kuepper inflicted an intensity into the band’s sound through his ‘buzzsaw’ guitar playing, a demanding activity that didn’t allow for the now revered singer/songwriter to be at the helm vocally, convincing the treasured Chris Bailey to steer.

“I had a science with the way that I played guitar. It was a pretty full-on thing. I think if I hadn’t talked Chris into joining The Saints, I would have become the singer because I would have had the band irrespective. I was really, really determined. But Bailey was a great singer and there was a great frontman in him so that enabled me to kind of do the guitar playing that I wanted to do,” he says.

Kuepper took the driver’s seat in his follow-up project, the post-punk era-defining Laughing Clowns, bringing his vocals to the front. It was here, in a decade-spanning progression, that he would form the foundations of a solo standing.

“The Saints existed for five years and the Clowns for another five years. That’s a sort of fairly significant period. I think I

The solo leap came in 1985 with Kuepper releasing the first in a store of albums under his birth name, Electrical Storm , an album that is now being revisited under a catalogue re-release campaign. This debut number and Kuepper’s 1991 selection Honey Steel’s Gold have been remastered by Don Bartley for vinyl, CD and streaming release. Both of these albums are significant choices for Kuepper in the re-release rollout.

“We needed to do the re-release for vinyl so it made sense to go back to the original tapes and get them as close to what they were as possible to have a digital file for mastering. The reason I picked those two is because Electrical Storm was the mother album as my first solo album, and Honey Steel’s Gold, which was released about six years later, was a significant record for me but was also the first album that charted.

“It was an independently produced, independently released and distributed album. I think it was the first album that

ticked all of those boxes to actually make it into the ARIA Top 40. There had never been an album that was 100 per cent independent that had actually charted so that was quite a big deal. The other thing with Honey Steel’s Gold is that it was released just at the time when vinyl sales in Australia were dying so there weren’t many final versions of the album in Australia on vinyl. So we’re addressing that and giving the people what they want.”

Honey Steel’s Gold was not the obvious choice for commercial success, with the opener track sitting just shy of 10 minutes in length. But it was the track ‘The Way I Made You Feel’ that helped it strike gold.

“It certainly isn’t a commercial album in any sense with a ten-minute opener and many instrumental pieces but its release coincided with triple j going national and that lead single was on rotation so it was serendipitous timing,” he laughs.

These two milestone albums will be on showcase in his upcoming national tour, gloriously titled The Exploding Universe of Ed Kuepper. Kuepper and his mainstay band of Mark Dawson, Sunnyboys’ bassist Peter Oxley, Alister Spence and Eamon Dilworth will be exploring major cities and regional towns in a September spectacular, making their way down to Queenscliff Town Hall on Friday 8 September.

“Bailey was a great singer and there was a great frontman in him so that enabled me to kind of do the guitar playing that I wanted to do.”

“It certainly isn’t a commercial album in any sense with a ten-minute opener and many instrumental pieces but its release coincided with triple j going national and that lead single was on rotation so it was serendipitous timing.”

G FLIP

Being the representation they never had growing up

WORDS BY SIDONIE BIRD DE LA COEUR

Æ It’s the day before International NonBinary People’s Day when I get the chance to interview G Flip.

About to kick off on their highly anticipated DRUMMER tour, they reflect on being at the forefront of queer, non-binary representation in the mainstream Australian music landscape.

“When I came out as non-binary, I knew that I’d have to talk about it a lot,” they say. “I knew that there’d be a bit of a responsibility but I’ve always liked public speaking and I like educating people. I was a music teacher before G Flip took off, so for me, it came pretty naturally, to fill that role.

“I think a big part of the G Flip project is being the person that I never had growing up. We never had non-binary musicians growing up, so it’s awesome now that there are people filling those shoes for kids who are looking for an idol, searching for someone to look up to.”

Playing both drums and lead vocals, as well as keys and guitar, any output from them is nothing short of a marvel of multi-instrumentalism. While to some, drumming and singing lead may seem to be an unconventional combination, for G Flip, however, the two go hand in hand.

“I’ve been drumming since I was nine years old and I was always singing in private. Like, if I was home alone, I would sing. I was too shy to sing in front of anyone. I always wrote solo music on piano and guitar when I was a teenager. But it was always alone and I never showed anyone.

“So, yeah, no one ever heard my songs or my voice ’til I was 19, maybe 20 years old. It wasn’t until I came out as queer that I felt comfortable sharing my songs because a lot of the lyrical content of my songs was very queer based and I hadn’t come out yet. As soon as I came out, I was ready to share my songs.

“The drums were like my safe space, it was my shield. And then as soon as I came out as gay, then I was ready to take the microphone and share my story. It’s a big part of my journey.”

Featuring standout track ‘The Worst Person Alive’, DRUMMER is a powerful, high-octane pop album that could only have been made by a devoted percussionist. Singing “You used to call me, “Baby, come over” / Now I’m the worst person alive,” the track deconstructs the isolation that comes with suddenly being completely out of the loop with a person you used to date.

“That’s how some breakups go,” they say.

“I’ve had relationships where we’ve ended up being friends, and that particular one that I wrote about, it’s just like dead silence. I’ve never heard from them again.

“I wanted to write a song about those feelings and that from being each other’s everything to being absolutely nothing.

“I did some Pride shows recently in the States, and I tested out The Worst Person Alive. For me and my band, that’s one of the most fun songs to play live, we enjoy it so much. And the crowd reception and reaction for that song has been really awesome.

“A lot of my core fans and friends are saying it’s one of the best songs I’ve ever released so far, which is so awesome to hear, and I’m glad that that song is out in the world.”

In what has since become heralded as a legendary moment in G Flip’s career, they broke their arm while in the midst of their 2022 tour. Despite doctor’s orders, they appeared on stage mere hours later, drumming one-handed. As it turns out, they were more than prepared for the mishap.

“I watched Travis Barker growing up, who’s an idol of mine. He broke his hand and then he did a whole tour with one hand. So as a kid, I’d always practice my set onehanded and teach myself that.

“I broke my hand, but then in the hospital, I just started learning my set one-handed. Then, I was on stage about eight hours later playing the show. I had six more shows and then I did Splendour one-handed.

“There was no stopping me. When I had a broken hand, I almost found it like a challenge. I wanted to find the most badass drum solo and do it one-handed. So at Splendour, I ripped like a five-minute, six-minute drum solo one-handed and it was so fun.”

Hot off the back of their August 11 release, they’re slated to perform 13 Australian dates on their upcoming tour –before heading across the ditch to bring DRUMMER to the States. “I do get extremely fit on tour. I feel like a melon currently, but once I’m on tour, I get full abs and stuff,” they laugh. “Singing real hectic while drumming – the heart rate goes up like no other.” There really is no stopping G Flip.

G FLIP

WHERE: TORQUAY HOTEL, TORQUAY

WHEN: 31 AUG

Bendigo’s Ultimate Pop Culture Extravaganza

WORDS BY STAFF WRITER

BRISBANE MUSIC TRAIL The Ultimate Month-Long Celebration of Live Music

WORDS BY STAFF WRITER

Æ Calling all music lovers and adventure seekers! September is about to become the most exhilarating month of your year as Brisbane, the sun-soaked capital of Queensland, gears up to host an electrifying array of music festivals and events that will leave you begging for an encore. Meet the Brisbane Music Trail, a monthlong celebration of the city’s unique and vibrant live music culture.

For the first time ever, three premier music and cultural festivals – Sweet Relief!, BIGSOUND, and Brisbane Festival – have united to create an unrivalled music experience. From Australian exclusives to globally acclaimed acts, this super September is guaranteed to be the most music you’ve ever seen in your life.

Æ Calling all pop culture enthusiasts in regional Victoria! Mark your calendars for the one-day spectacle, Bendi-Con, Bendigo’s annual Pop Culture Extravaganza happening on Sunday, August 27. From its roots as the Bendigo Record Comic and Toy Fair, BendiCon has evolved into an unmissable event for the vibrant pop culture community thriving in Bendigo.

Attracting over 2,000 attendees last year alone, Bendi-Con organisers have put in relentless effort once again to bring together top-notch stalls, artists, fans, and guests, creating a family-friendly and vibrant atmosphere. Guests will be blown away by the lineup of attractions, including guest speakers, panels, original comic book artists and authors in the Artists Alley, a Traders Zone, and a Fan Zone, for Star Wars, Star Trek, Doctor Who, Lego and more of All Ages!

There will also be a market featuring comics, pop culture memorabilia, toys, fashion and loads more on the day.

In a nod to how far the event has come, this year welcomes Bendi-Con’s first-ever International Guest, Gary Erskine, a Scottish comic book artist with thirty years’ experience with Marvel and DC Comics. Voice actor and stuntman Neil Fanning, the iconic voice of Scooby Doo, will also be there. The Biggest Ever Bendi-Con Artists Alley promises an array of talents, including the beloved Dean Rankine sketching his iconic Futurama head portraits for fans.

The Bendigo Cosplay Contest is a definite highlight, where participants in fabulous costumes, handmade or store-bought, get judged by expert cosplayers. It’s all about fun, participation, and fantastic costumes, with the entry proceeds going to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation.

Attendees can also expect surprises and exclusive attractions, like Gary Erskine’s Bendi-Con exclusive artwork, profits from which will contribute to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation.

Securing your spot at Bendi-Con 2023 is a breeze with tickets available via Ticketek. Early-bird ticket holders enjoy quicker entry, and every paid entry has a chance to win one of two Pop Vinyl packs from Pop Toys, valued at over $100 each.

Get ready to unleash your inner geek and revel in a day of pop culture paradise!

Brisbane Festival sets the tone with its internationally renowned arts festival, offering a captivating music program that will keep you dancing all month long. Across 23 days, more than 1000 performances will take over venues and some of the city’s most iconic spots, as well as cathedrals, warehouses, and suburban parks. We’ve got our eye on Paul Kelly at The Princess Theatre, new musical comedy Bananaland, and the decadent circus, drag, and burlesque spectacular Bite Club: 2nd Serve.

But that’s just the beginning. BIGSOUND - the southern hemisphere’s biggest music industry gathering - takes centre stage from 5-8 September, presenting a lineup of over 140 bands and artists across four days and three epic nights in the iconic Fortitude Valley.

As if that’s not enough, the brand-new Sweet Relief! Music Festival will make its debut on 16 September, at Brisbane’s Maritime Green, Northshore. This riverside festival brings legendary electronic music titans Groove Armada (DJ Set) from the UK and cult Australian dance act The Avalanches to the stage for an exclusive performance, plus so many more incredible acts to keep you grooving all night long.

The warm Queensland sun, the city’s picturesque riverside, and the pulsating beats of the music scene: it doesn’t get much better than this. So, mark your calendars, book your tickets, and prepare to experience the most music you’ve ever seen in your life.

BENDI-CON 2023

WHERE: RED ENERGY ARENA, BENDIGO

WHEN: 10AM-4PM, SUNDAY 27 AUG 2023

BRISBANE MUSIC TRAIL

WHERE: BRISBANE

WHEN: 01 - 23 SEP 2023

Credit: Mitch Lowe

ART GUIDE

Exhibitions to see this August

WORDS BY CHESTER OGILVIE

WHO’S WHO PORTRAIT EXHIBITION

From the all-too-temporary chalk drawings on the sidewalk to gloriously colourful splashes of paint on canvas, the art of children is so often wonderfully unique, unfiltered, unusual and imaginative. Honouring Jules Francois Archibald, the Who’s Who Portrait Exhibition encourages and inspires students from kindergarten to grade six living across the Geelong region. Students are invited to submit a portrait that celebrates their own identity, family, friends or local identities.

SHOULDA BEEN HERE YESTERDAY

Curated by the dynamic duo Jessi Rebel and Ula Majewski, this multi-media group show is all about our deep connection to the saltwater and the coastal places we call home. Featuring over 50 stunning artworks, the exhibition puts the spotlight on First Nations artists and other ocean creatives living on Wadawurrung Country, making it a celebration of culture, creativity, and community.

HOOP GALLERY UNTIL 27 AUG

ESSAYS ON EARTH

In the words of American novelist and environmental activist Wendell Berry, “The Earth is what we all have in common.” Held across three gallery spaces, Essays on Earth is a collaboration between multidisciplinary artist Brodie Ellis, painter/printmaker John Wolseley and poet Paul Kane that fuses Ellis and Wolseley’s observations of the natural world with the themes and reflections of Kane’s verse essays, Earth, Air, Water, Fire. An expansive video installation lies at the heart of the exhibition.

BENDIGO ART GALLERY 9 SEP - 14 JAN

TRANSFERENCE

An exhibition that encourages viewers to speculate about what processes may have taken place to create the thing they see is in its final days. Transference welcomed four Castlemaine-based artists in Justin Andrews, Michael Graeve, Melinda Harper and Clayton Tremlett to create a body of works that experiments with varying methodologies of this print process. Artists recorded the process of transferring colour, shape, gesture and texture to allow for a “joyful kind of visual uncertainty”.

CASTLEMAINE ART MUSEUM UNTIL 3 SEP

GEELONG ART SHOW

Curated by Jan Synott OAM and judged by Paul McDonald Smith OAM, the newly formed Geelong Art Show aims to become an integral part of the local art scene. There will be four categories in 2023, with that to be expanded over coming years to include other artistic mediums. All surplus funds as a result of the art show will be donated to Australian charities, this year being the Geelong Region Cancerians.

SACRED HEART COLLEGE, NEWTOWN, HEPBURN 18-20 AUG

LITTLE BIG, BIG LITTLE

Art doesn’t have to be serious. The works of Raymond Arnold, Douglas S. Y. Cham, Madeleine Child, Gary Erickson, Barrie Goddard, Naomi Hobson, Anna Kristensen, Clifford Frank Last and Renee So are featured in this playful introduction to the elements and principles of arts, styles and art movements. Big and little visitors alike are encouraged to explore colour, texture and scale, all while contemplating some of the big questions.

SHEPPARTON ART MUSEUM UNTIL 3 SEP

WAYNE ELLIOTT: STORIES FROM YONDER

As a young’un, Wayne Elliott would climb Mount Elephant or sit atop silos as a way to see as much of the world as he could. As he tells it, if there is more to see, there is more of a story to tell. Among the works in his new appropriately titled exhibition is ‘Lasseter’s Reef’, which tells the story of Harry Lasseter’s discovery of the legendary gold reef – and his inability to find it again.

THE HIVE, OCEAN GROVE UNTIL 27 AUG

RACV X BIFB

The RACV has partnered with the Ballarat International Foto Biennale for three lengthy exhibitions. Within the Landscapes (RACV Goldfields Resort) explores landscapes within landscapes, hidden around the resort. Aldona Kmieć’s Winterbloom (Goldfields Gallery) is an invitation to explore the boundaries of our imagination with fluid and bright photography taken during the depths of COVID. And Erik Johansson’s Behind the Image (ArtHouse) uses original drawings and short documentaries to explain how the artist’s physical photography is brought to life with digital effects.

RACV X BIFB EXHIBITIONS 19 AUG - 3 DEC

GEELONG GALLERY UNTIL 28 AUG

WARHOL

A Regional Journey into the Genius Mind of the Legendary Andy Warhol

WORDS BY STAFF WRITER

Æ Promising an unforgettable journey into the fascinating world of pop culture through the lens of the legendary Andy Warhol, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale (BIFB) proudly presents Instant Warhol. From August 26 to October 22, Australia’s own Ballarat will play host to this extraordinary exhibition that promises to transcend time and captivate audiences of all ages.

Taking centre stage at the Art Gallery of Ballarat for its Australian premiere, Instant Warhol is a collection of 59 original Polaroid portraits. These snapshots provide a unique window into Warhol’s obsession with capturing the essence of people, their allure, and the fleeting nature of fame. Prepare to be transported into the pop culture icon’s visual universe, where each photograph unveils stories waiting to be discovered.

But why Andy Warhol? Vanessa Gerrans, the visionary CEO behind the Ballarat International Foto Biennale, says the exhibition ties in nicely with the overall festival theme, The Real Thing.

“With the festival theme being ‘The Real Thing’, the Polaroids really resonated. They’re such an instant format that captures raw moments that emerge from the gloomy chemical process, resulting in timeless artifacts that transport us to a specific time and place.

“And it’s something that people will recognise and be excited to see.”

Capturing people, parties and pop culture of the 1970s and ‘80s, the curated collection of Polaroids - arriving thanks to a partnership with The Brant Foundation - provides a unique glimpse into the media-accelerated age of celebrity that Warhol was so famously a part of. Gerrans explains, “It’s the Brant Foundation’s entire Polaroid collection... celebrating that kind of media-accelerated age of celebrity.” These Polaroids also unveil the artistic depth of Warhol, as many of them formed the foundation for his iconic silk screen prints.

In an era where Polaroids are making a resurgence, Instant Warhol holds the power to evoke nostalgia and curiosity. Gerrans believes that viewers will be drawn not only to the familiar faces captured by Warhol’s lens but also to the stories that accompany each photograph. One particularly enchanting story revolves around a candid encounter between Liza Minnelli and John Lennon, adding a layer of depth to the images.

This exhibition transcends generations, making it an ideal family-friendly experience. Gerrans affirms, “There’s definitely something for everyone.” Whether you’re immersed in the memories of the ‘70s and ‘80s or simply intrigued by the allure of a bygone era, Instant Warhol promises to leave a lasting impression.

MINT BY MICHELLE

Dive into A World of Creativity

at

Newtown’s Newest Retail Haven

WORDS BY STAFF WRITER

Æ Nestled within the vibrant streets of Newtown, Mint by Michelle stands as a beacon of artistic exploration and ingenuity. Led by Michelle Bergamasco Tither, Mint by Michelle has carved a unique niche in the world of DIY and craft, transforming ordinary items into canvases of creativity. .

Michelle’s creative journey ignited in her very own garage, where she discovered her passion for pushing boundaries. “I was always a pretty creative person but, more than that, I’ve always thrived off a challenge and like to push my own limits to see what I’m capable of,” Michelle reflects. “That spawned the desire to start a business and to see whether I could turn my creative hobby into something that could financially sustain me and my family.”

The result was Mint by Michelle, a uniquely creative and contemporary furniture business offering a range of exceptional quality products with a strong commitment to recycling and sustainability.

Mint’s signature decoupage paper line, which set the industry ablaze, offers a fresh perspective on furniture artistry. “I’d been refurbishing furniture and concentrating on uniquely decoupaged pieces… and realised very quickly that if I were to achieve what I wanted I would need to have the images custom printed,” Michelle explains.

With its meteoric rise, Mint’s innovative products - including a range of transfers, a Mineral Paint line and tissue papers - now adorn homes and studios across over 30 countries. And now, Mint takes a stride further by opening a brand-new retail space in Newtown.

Formerly operating as a warehouse and distribution centre for the past five years, the decision to open the doors to the public and cater directly to Geelong’s creative souls was a natural progression, aligning with the evolving patronage of the area.

The store offers products from Mint’s own creations to other brands like Chalk Paint by Annie Sloan and Redesign with Prima. The store exudes warmth, inviting visitors to explore, discover, and unleash their inner artist. “It is jam-packed full of inspiration and aspiration (in equal measure) and it’s a super inviting and warm space that invites you in and envelopes you in a huge hug,” Michelle adds.

Whether you’re a seasoned creator or someone who’s yet to uncover their creative side, Mint by Michelle invites you to step inside and let your imagination run wild.

INSTANT WARHOL, AS PART OF THE BALLARAT INTERNATIONAL FOTO BIENNALE

WHERE: ART GALLERY OF BALLARAT

WHEN: 25 AUG - 22 OCT

MINT BY MICHELLE

WHERE: 403 PAKINGTON STREET, NEWTOWN

WHEN: 9AM-4PM MON - SAT

Credit: Meg Read

CONNECTION

FIRST PEOPLES ART AND MUSIC LIGHT UP THE LUME MELBOURNE

WORDS BY TAMMY WALTERS

Back in 1996, Nintendo’s Mario 64 opened up the ultimate fantasy of being able to jump inside a painting, travelling from Mushroom Castle into the technicoloured worlds of Bob-omb Battlefield and Jolly Rogers Bay. Grande Experiences have made this fantasy a reality through the 3,000 square-metre immersive gallery space, The LUME Melbourne.

Æ A permanent fixture of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, The LUME Melbourne has transported visitors into world-famous paintings such as Claude Monet’s ‘Water Lilies’, and Edgar Degas’ ‘Ballerinas’. In 2021 they brought narratives of Netherlands, Paris, Arles, Saint-Rémy and Auvers-sur-Oise to the multi-sensory space through Van Gogh Alive with Starry Night and Sunflower. Now they are connecting the dots of Australia’s most celebrated First Nations artists, inviting visitors inside of works of the likes of Emily Kame Kngwarreye, Tommy Watson, Clifford, Gabriella and Michelle Possum Nungurrayi, Anna Pitjara, and Lin Onus for Connection

Developed across two years, Connection comprises over 500 digitised works from over 110 visual and musical artists in the largest representation of First Peoples art and culture ever assembled. Set to a score of First Nations music, Connection comes to life through an emotional soundtrack comprising legends like Yothu Yindi, Archie Roach, Emily Wurramara, and Gurrumul; renowned composers like William Barton; and emerging musicians like Alice Skye and Baker Boy.

One of the artists involved is proud Gadigal woman of the Eora nation and a neo-contemporary Indigenous artist, Kate Constantine, best known as Konstantina, presenting multiple pieces including her Raining Series.

“I think what’s so beautiful and immersive about the experience is that something that has been quite two-dimensional, or even three-dimensional in some cases, becomes more than three-dimensional. It’s almost four-dimensional because you are in the works. The works have been animated so it looks alive,” she explains.

“My Raining Series pieces actually look like they’re raining in the room, but then you put yourself into that place and it actually rains on you like you’re part of the installation. It’s quite overwhelming, to be honest. It’s epic!”

The works of Konstantina are narrative building, drawing from the bygone art forms of her ancestral past in a reimagined and

recontextualised form, integrating traditional dot painting into a modern context. Connection is giving her a space to tell her truth whilst also weaving it in with those of her fellow First Nations artists to create a giant tapestry of First Nations stories.

“As Aboriginal people, we are spiritually, physically, and emotionally connected to country, and country isn’t just the physical landscape; it’s the water, the air, the sky, the animals. We have this sense of responsibility and duty to our country and it’s a very reciprocal relationship. So us artists are intrinsically connected already.

“What I think is so beautiful about the show is that there are over 100 artists involved between the musicians and the painters, and we are from all over Australia. We all don’t speak the same language, we have different cultural practices, we have different songs, different dances, but together this show has brought us together in what I would say is the largest volume of Aboriginal artists in one single show.”

Having opened Friday 23 June, Connection comes at a historic time in Australian history. The upcoming referendum on the Voice to parliament, which if the yes campaign prevails, will see the amendment of the Constitution to formally recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with the creation of a new body to represent their interests in the running of this country. However, if the referendum campaign tilts towards no, it will be a blow to the processes of reconciliation.

“I think for the first time I’ve truly felt embraced. Think about what The LUME has had before - Van Gogh who is arguably only one of the most amazing painters ever in the world, not just in Australia, and Monet, and we’re being held up and we’re having this spotlight shone on us as this amazing movement in art, but also this cultural moment in time.

“I always think that art can change the world like that. Part of my practice is around truth-telling and identity and ensuring the sharing and continuation of culture. So for me, this moment in time is a document. We’re all going to remember this year. We’re all gonna remember 2023. It’s the only time that there’s been a referendum since like the 90’s and before that, I think 100 years or so. This is going to be a moment where we all remember and I’m really proud of the work. I think that we’ve come together and made something pretty spectacular,” explains Constantine.

“It’s a joy to say that I, as a mum and as an Aboriginal woman and as an Aboriginal artist, am afforded this opportunity to change history, to change the way people view us, to change the way people view our culture and to accept people to come and walk alongside us.”

The LUME Melbourne is open daily for visitors, including a bunch of additional activities and premium experiences. CONNECTION

THE LUME MELBOURNE, MELBOURNE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE OPEN NOW

POLARIS Fatalism

Æ Polaris are one of the few acts who managed to break free from the confines of being a ‘heavy band’ and win over listeners across genres. It’s propelled the Sydney act to bonafide stardom, with the scope of their output growing so far and wide over the past decade that they’re now regarded as one of Australia’s most impressive live outfits.

Making their third full-length release, Fatalism is one of this year’s most highly anticipated releases. So as a precursor to the album’s release, the group announced their biggest headliner tours to date before making the shock announcement that lead guitarist Ryan Siew had tragically passed away at 26.

The news sent shockwaves through fans worldwide. Siew had long been a crowd favourite due to his technical approach to his craft, incredible onstage presence and infectiously kind personality. So naturally for many, listening to Fatalism with the knowledge that it would be his final piece of work was always going to make for a difficult experience.

However, there was never any doubt that it was going to be a phenomenal album. Across their past two releases, Polaris have ultimately changed the landscape of modern-day metal, proving to listeners that melody and groove can comfortably sit side-by-side with sheer aggression and thrilling layers of breakdowns. Now on their third release, they’ve propelled this to new heights, taking the most prominent elements of their iconic formula and honing in on exciting new methods of style and delivery.

This is only further enhanced by the unprecedented level of frustration in the group’s sound. Sure, they’ve always had a ruthless output, but here they take it to another level, largely because the group wrote the release as a result of COVID, forcing them off the road at the height of their The Death In Me tour.

Opener ‘Harbinger’ delivers sharp, jagged riffs alongside explosions of pounding percussion and bellowing gutturals. ‘Nightmare’ adds further layers of complexity, allowing for Daniel Furnari’s intricate side-hits to add a tight tension to the song’s ascending guitar riffs and sheer drop-off breakdowns. ‘Parasites’ toys with trance programming, giving way to frenetic time signatures perfectly matched by Siew and Rick Schneider’s methodical guitar work and Jamie Hails’ impressive bent vocal inflections.

‘The Crossfire’ sees the quintet experimenting with ambient post-hardcore leads and fast-tempo breakdowns, opposing most group’s standard approach of slowing it down, while ‘Dissipate’ maintains the ambience, boasting high-pitched guitar leads adjacent to machine gun riffs and what’s arguably the album’s biggest breakdown.

In the face of adversity, Polaris have delivered their most triumphant release to date. Fatalism is an absolute tour de force and an album that will undoubtedly continue to tighten Polaris’ vice grip on the modern metal scene.

DENNIS COMETTI Suburban Condition

Æ If Dennis Cometti wrote down the lyrics to the songs on Suburban Condition, they most likely wrote them on a slew of spare tally-ho papers and leftover slab cardboard. If anything, it’s amazing that the hose reel they are using as a makeshift beer coaster on the album cover is still intact. There’s something about these blokes that gives off the impression that it should have been cut a long time ago. But that’s all part of the Perth-based punk-rock outfit’s charm – they are just your everyday blokes making brazen, riff-based bangers. What’s not to love?

Finding its sound somewhere between the larrikinism of The Chats, the twangy art-punk riffs of Eddy Current Suppression Ring and the boogie-rock rhythms of Status Quo, the group’s second album packs a slab’s worth of garage-punk fuzz alongside loaded observations of the finest aspects of Aussie living. From mentions of tough-guy “seccies” at your local “RSL”, to stories of going through RBTs in a shit-box Camry, to finding love at your local pub, there’s a lot that Aussie listeners will find earnest relatability in.

Having been recorded by guitarist/ vocalist Alex Patching’s shed on a 4 track, Suburban Condition has a sound that’s rough around the edges, which is what makes it a great listen. It’s fun, energetic punk delinquency that could blow over .05 through your speakers. It’s the kind of album that you’ll love and your neighbours will hate.

DIDIRRI Caught In The Act

Æ Didirri is more than just a songwriter, he’s a natural-born storyteller. His debut release is a testament to this. Upon listening to Caught In The Act, you don’t just feel like you’ve got a glimpse into his life, you feel like you’ve lived it alongside him.

Delivered as a culmination of the Warrnambool-raised artist’s life lessons and pathways, Caught In The Act offers stark glimpses of Didirri’s life, perspectives and tribulations, no matter how unflinching they may be.

From reflections of love and loss in the wake of his grandmother’s passing (‘Obsolete Machine’), to fears of reprisal about admitting his negative self-perception (‘You Know What’s Good For You’), Caught In The Act showcases the vulnerability of Didirri’s lyrics.

But while confessional in nature, it’s delivered in an elegant, easy-listening manner that makes it easy to resonate with. ‘Tonight’ balances elements of soul and blues-rock, simultaneously channelling different emotions as jagged electric guitar licks bounce alongside acoustic rhythms.

‘Love Can Bleed You By The Hand’ strips it back, allowing Didirri’s soulful vocals to act as the driving force beside refined piano arrangements, while ‘Under Falling Skies’ bleeds with shoegaze dissonance, ushering in powerful crescendos as it toys with heavy wobbles of wah guitar, down-tuned basslines and slacked snare hits.

The album is a credit to Didirri’s craft. Not only does every song have its own powerful narrative, but they also adopt stylistic changeups to match the tone of each anecdote, highlighting Didirri’s impressive ability to write beautiful songs that’ll completely immerse you in their stories.

DIPPERS Clastic Rock

Æ For the first time under the moniker of Dippers, Thigh Master founder and leader Matthew Ford has again teamed up with longtime collaborator Innez Tulloch, and this time around, Tulloch has stepped up to the role of being Ford’s principle songwriting partner. The results are rambunctious, with Dippers’ sound taking the unpolished jangle-pop edge of Thigh Master and running with it in fresh and exciting ways.

Their debut release, the aptly named Clastic Rock , melds aspects from a variety of different genres, eras and styles, delivering a sound that works as a combination of 70’s indie rock acts such as The Go-Betweens merged with the futuristic psych-pop of homegrown favourites The Frowning Clouds.

Opener ‘S.I.M’ provides an enriching contrast between vibrant rock riffs and despondent, dead-pan vocals. ‘Tightening The Tangles’ adds an art-pop quirk through its herky-jerky rhythms, ethereal synth arrangements and semi-spoken word vocal cadence, while ‘Comment’s Grip’ adds an early Australian punk-rock quality through its Radio Birdman-esque surf-rock riffs and rapid-fire drum-fills.

Overall, it’s an incredibly full sound, especially considering Dippers are, at the end of the day, a duo. In saying that, there are a handful of collaborators who help bring Dippers’ individualistic vision to life by adding eccentric layers of trombone, flute and harmonica throughout the release.

The result is a healthy dose of nostalgia, which also offers up something new and bohemian. It’s a debut that’ll appease even the most critical music listeners with its jovial, unpolished output.

LEAH SENIOR

The Music That I Make

Æ There’s a certain intimacy to Leah Senior’s music. It transcends just being a voice through a speaker, instead evoking the feeling that she’s sitting directly in front of you performing her songs. On her fourth effort, it’s a quality that’s quite evident, with Senior’s atmospheric vocals and unassumingly pensive lyrics cutting right through as she navigates vulnerable meditations on what it means to create.

And this time around, her lyrics couldn’t be more noticeable, with Senior stepping away from the springtime baroquepop arrangements of 2020’s The Passing Scene for more of a bedroom folk sound, allowing her adept songwriting and resolute vocals to take centre stage as she explores the trials and tribulations of her time in the music industry.

As asserted in the album’s title track ‘The Music That I Make’, “I get put out by the music business / But I’m grateful to the people who come along and listen / I’m getting older and I’ll never stop.” In other moments, the ‘Clearest View’ sees Senior discuss imperfections in the eyes of others, ceasing criticisms with acknowledgements that “I’m a daisy, imperfect daisy in the sun.”

It’s Senior in her most unyielding form – and she doesn’t care if it’s not for everyone, with The Music That I Make making it abundantly clear that she’s an artist who doesn’t bother trying to fit into a crowd, she just wants to create music that makes her happy.

BITES GUIDE

Food and drink to try this August

WORDS BY STAFF WRITER

18TH AMENDMENT BAR WINS GOLD FOR AUSTRALIAN DRY GIN

GEELONG’S BELOVED BARKING DOG RECLAIMS ITS TITLE AS ‘THE QUEEN OF THE WEST’

With a name change, the iconic pub has undergone exciting renovations, embracing its rich history while introducing modern touches. The front bar features exposed bricks and vintage decor, and brings back local live music and a lively atmosphere. You’ll find an extensive menu with pub classics, as well as large high-definition TVs for sports fans and pool tables scattered throughout the bar. ‘The Queen of the West’ promises to be the go-to spot for vibrant entertainment and unforgettable experiences.

Geelong’s renowned 18th Amendment Bar has bagged the prestigious Gold Medal in the Best Victorian Gin Category at the esteemed Australian Distilled Spirits Awards. Having unveiled their first gin just six months ago, this victory holds special significance for the 18th Amendment Bar, considering the blind tasting and impartial judging process carried out by esteemed experts in the field. The victory reflects the sheer quality of their gin, positioning it alongside other outstanding gins that have won the hearts of gin enthusiasts far and wide.

SOUTHAMERICA COFFEE CO. OPENS A SLEEK SPECIALTY COFFEE BAR IN LITTLE MALOP STREET

Colombian-born Juan Cala, the mastermind behind this venture, brings the rich, genuine flavours of his homeland to Geelong. From traditional options like Ethiopian to distinct Colombian and Brazilian blends, their coffee bar promises a sensational experience for all java aficionados. With Colombian pastries and refreshing drinks also available, immerse yourself in the warm and intimate space, savouring every sip of your South American-inspired beverage. Find it at 2/82 Little Malop Street, Geelong.

SHEDSHAKER BREWING LAUNCHES CASTLEMAINE KEG FOR GOOD

Renowned for its range of fresh, handcrafted, small-batch craft beers, Castlemaine’s Shedshaker Brewing has launched a new community program. Named Castlemaine Keg for Good . People can then visit the Taproom, order a pot or pint of Pale Ale and pay any amount they like as a donation to the cause. The money raised each month will be donated to a nominated local community group.

TOASTY OPENS A SECOND CAFE, BRINGING TOASTIES, COFFEE AND SHAKES TO SOUTH GEELONG

Toasty, the toastie wonderland that took Geelong by storm in 2020, is now making waves in South Geelong with its second cafe. At 32-34 Raptor Place, prepare to be enchanted by the same generously sized, flavour-packed toasties, alongside delightful coffee and milkshakes. From classic Grilled Cheese to daring delights like the Cheeky Cheeseburger and Spicy Southern Toastie, every bite is a burst of creativity and comfort.

STEP INTO A PINK WONDERLAND AT THE NEWLY REVAMPED THE LITTLE CUPCAKE

BALLARAT MUSIC VENUE VOLTA TO OPEN A PIZZA PARLOUR

Ballarat’s beloved live music haven, Volta, is stepping up its game by introducing a Pizza Parlour to its vibrant space. Get ready for “Cheese n’ Tunes” – a winning combination that will elevate your experience at Volta. As darkness falls, you can answer the call for delectable pizza and top-notch music. The eagerly awaited launch night promises to be a celebration of great music, cold drinks, and hot, freshly made pizzas. Coming soon!

BARWON EDGE KICKS OFF NEW CHAPTER WITH COFFEE WINDOW

In case you missed it, the iconic Barwon Edge Boathouse is undergoing a magnificent transformation, and the first exciting change is already here — the coffee window is now open! Coffee lovers can rejoice as they can now grab a cup of delicious Cartel Roasters Coffee or indulge in delectable pastries from Ket Baker from Tuesday to Sunday, between 8am to 12pm.

After a stunning revamp, this award-winning gourmet cupcake shop is a must-visit, offering delightful new flavours alongside their distinctive handcrafted treats. Familyowned and operated, they pride themselves on using the best local ingredients to create beautiful, delicious, and affordable treats. Their unique ‘little’ cupcakes are perfect for a few delightful bites. With a bunch of daily varieties and gluten-friendly, vegan options available, plus little cakes, cake cups and hot chocolate bombs, there’s something for everyone. Find it at 223 Eureka Street, Ballarat East.

FRANKIE.

Æ Cocktail bar, function venue, pan-Asian-fusion restaurant. Is there anything frankie. can’t do?

The brilliant ethos of frankie. is that you can dress up, feel fabulous, head out on the town to a stunning, higher-end venueand get those stunning Instagram shots - as well as get your hands dirty with some non-pretentious, house-made, delicious food, like the irresistible Golden Balls, Spring Rolls, Bao Buns and the finger-licking Popcorn Chicken.

What better complement to such flavoursome food than a handcrafted cocktail from their extraordinary list? frankie. pride themselves on their epic cocktail list of 30 cocktails – each crafted with premium spirits and top-notch ingredients. And all of these can be made as mocktails. They also have a predominantly local wine list. Local supporting local, nothing better!

Dietary requirements are no hurdle at frankie., as they offer a comprehensive dietary needs menu that thoughtfully lists each dish by dietary category, from vegan to gluten-free, Low-FODMAP to Nut and Soy allergies. Guests can now relax and enjoy their time without worrying about their tummy, savouring every moment spent with friends and family.

Now, with events back in full swing, frankie. has earned its reputation as the ‘hens, engagement, and baby shower capital of Geelong’. It’s the ideal venue for all-important life moments, offering private rooms for intimate gatherings and the entire venue for grand celebrations like engagements and weddings. Whatever the occasion, the world of frankie. is your event oyster.

And if two of your favourite words are ‘bottomless’ and ‘Sunday’, frankie. has some fantastic news for you: bottomless cocktails accompanied by delectable dishes on Sundays, all for just $89 per guest.

Rumours abound that a second venue may be on the horizon, and this new baby (we’ve heard) will be mainly focused on functions, events and fabulous, high-end experiences. Geelong’s discerning crowd may soon have a light and bright, high-end, classy cocktail bar to unwind and mingle, making it the preferred choice for Friday after-work drinks and a little boogie. We are excited!

Watch this space…

TWO TINS PATISSERIE

Æ In the heart of Geelong, a family-owned patisserie is making waves with its delectable array of handmade pastries. Two Tins Patisserie, founded by the visionary Tanja, has blossomed into a dream come true.

As a dedicated mother of five, with a love for cooking shows and an unyielding desire to build her own business, Tanja finally took a leap of faith into the cheffing world. From humble beginnings in a kitchen built in a garage and working at markets, Tanja now thrives with her own little shop on one of Geelong’s busiest streets.

Tanja, along with her talented daughter Rachael, forms an unstoppable mother-and-daughter team that works extremely hard, day in, and day out. Their passion for all things pastry is evident in the use of high-quality ingredients, locally sourced produce whenever possible, and a commitment to baking fresh delights made entirely from scratch.

Surrounded by the heavenly aroma of baked pastries, the pastries here are handmade and baked, every single day. Yes, they are baked every single day, with the team at Two Tins striving to always have the freshest products for the community to enjoy. Their dedication and passion for producing high-quality food with locally sourced ingredients shine through in each delectable creation.

For this kick-ass mother-daughter duo and their incredible team, food is everything. Tanja’s tireless efforts, often clocking in around 14 hours a day, underscore her dedication to providing the community with the finest pastries. But there is a certain amount of pastries on the day. Once it’s sold out, it’s sold out, so set that alarm early and head down for your pick of all the pastries.

The joyous and skilled front-of-house team are also incredible: welcoming every customer with a big smile on their face, and always willing to help out where they can. Not only are they hard workers but love to have a laugh.

Two Tins Patisserie has received an outpouring of love and support from its loyal customers. Customers are willing to wait in lines nice and early to savour the day’s offerings before they’re sold out. After a tough few years, the team at Two Tins are extremely grateful to their customers, both regular and new, and they mean the absolute world to the business.

GREAT OCEAN ROAD GIN

Æ The best things in life come in threes, and at Great Ocean Road Gin, you’ll find a Distillery, a Gin Kitchen, and a Tasting Room, creating a trifecta of delights.

In November 2017, founder Ann Houlihan and her partner Kris Mckie embarked on a sea change to Anglesea, where Ann began crafting her small batch craft gin infused with regional botanicals. Inspired by the thriving food scene in Geelong and the Surf Coast region, they eagerly joined the growing food community along the coast. The natural environment and rugged beauty of the Great Ocean Road served as their muse for crafting coastal gins with a playful brand that pays homage to their favourite place in the world and their love for premium gin.

In December 2022, the doors opened to their new Torquaybased distillery in Sawmills Way. Their gins are meticulously crafted using a 300L Australian copper pot still sourced from Tasmania. The distillery is not just a production hub; it also boasts a retail store and a cellar door bar open on Fridays and Saturdays. Here, gin enthusiasts can savour gin and tonics, tasting trays, an epic snack menu, and expertly crafted cocktails prominently featuring the Great Ocean Road Gin.

Great Ocean Road Gin has curated an exciting lineup of event experiences at their Torquay Distillery, enticing you and your friends out of winter hibernation and into spring. From cocktail making classes to live music, DJ grooves, and entertaining karaoke nights, these events promise to sweep you away from any weather worries. Additionally, they have a Tasting Room & Gin Garden, and a restaurant called The Gin Kitchen in Aireys Inlet. The Gin Kitchen offers a delightful experience where you can indulge in their unique coastal Gins, handcrafted in small batches. Their tasting trays, carefully curated cocktails, and selection of local beers and wines further elevate the experience.

DISTILLERY: 1/8 SAWMILLS WAY, TORQUAY

OPEN: FRI 5-8PM, SAT 12:30 – 7PM

SHOP: MON-FRI 12:30-5PM

TASTING KITCHEN & GARDEN:

WHERE: 32/34 GREAT OCEAN ROAD, AIREYS INLET

OPEN: WED – THURS 5:30-8 FRI – SAT 3-8 & SUN 12-8PM

MORTADELI

Æ Indulge in heavenly delights at Mortadeli – where a mix of New York deli vibes and European products and charm awaits you in Torquay.

Mortadeli is an authentic Mediterranean restaurant that celebrates local seasonal produce, imported Italian DOC ingredients, and freshly homemade pasta. Their weekly changing menu offers options for vegetarians, gluten-free eaters, and pescatarians.

Owner Jake Cassar, a former Melbourne Travel Agent of 14 years, made the bold move to Torquay at the beginning of the pandemic. As a self-proclaimed coffee snob, he longed for the flavours of Europe, prompting him to create Mortadeli – a haven for all things European right here in Torquay.

From a coffee shop to a deli, Mortadeli embodies the essence of a Torquay-style bodega but elevated. Jake’s Maltese heritage finds expression at Mortadeli, with a selection of Maltese-made products and dishes on the menu. It’s a home away from home, brimming with local and European products, vibes, and people.

Jake’s vision of a small dining space with salami hanging overhead and the aroma of fresh pasta became a reality after a trip to Rome. He knew it had to be the next part of Mortadeli, ushering in the next chapter with Mortadeli Pasta Bar.

Located across the piazza from the original sandwich cafe and co-existing with the deli, customers can now dine in for lunch and dinner, savouring the delectable dishes prepared with care or enjoying an aperitivo in between.

Mortadeli’s pasta bar is led by acclaimed chef Glenn Laurie and front of house/venue manager Lolo Hanser. The new 35-seat space has been architecturally designed by Melbourne-based duo Fowler and Ward, providing a warm and professional service with a dining room that is intimate and evokes the cosy vibes of neighbourhood trattorias.

Enjoy lunch from Fridays to Mondays or dinner on Fridays and Saturdays, and savour the delectable dishes prepared with care. Mortadeli’s front window showcases the art of fresh pasta-making, and you can take home some fresh pasta, alongside the small alimentari offering, or explore the shelves stocked with imported and local deli goods, cured meats, cheeses, wine, and amaro.

PASTA BAR:

WHERE: SHOP 8/4-6 GILBERT STREET, TORQUAY

OPEN: 12 - 2:30 & 5:30 - 8:30PM FRI & SAT 12 - 4PM SUN - MON

STAGE GUIDE Performances to see this August

WORDS BY CHESTER OGILVIE

GREASE

In 1978, we were introduced to the timeless love story between bad boy Danny Zuko and girl next door Sandy Olsson who, we would discover, go together like rama lama lama ka dinga da dinga dong. All T-Birds and Pink Ladies are invited to join Warrnambool College as they roll out singalong favourites including ‘Summer Nights’, ‘Sandy’, ‘Hopelessly Devoted to You’, ‘You’re The One That I Want’, ‘Greased Lightnin’’ and ‘Grease is the Word’. Leather jackets are optional.

LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE, WARRNAMBOOL 17-19 AUG

ANIMAL FARM

A beast fable written by George Orwell, Animal Farm tells the story of a group of animals who rise up against their human farmer. Orwell described it as a satirical tale against Joseph Stalin and wrote it in order to “fuse political purpose and artistic purpose into one whole”. Award-winning performance group Bloomshed have put together a sixty-minute reimagining chock-full of dance breaks, physical comedy and confetti as they explore climate change, exploitation and corruption. Revolution is in the air!

POTATO SHED, DRYSDALE 22 & 23 AUG

BRILLIANT LIES

When Susy Conner accuses former employer Gary Fitzgerald of harassment and unfair dismissal after rebuffing his advances, the unravelling truth becomes blurred. Referred to as a serious comedy, David Williamson’s Brilliant Lies casts its eye on political correctness, sexual harassment and sex and power. Released as a play in 1993, Gia Carides and Anthony LaPaglia would star in a 1996 film adaptation. Here, it serves as Synchronicity Productions’ second offering for 2023.

THE ENGINE ROOM, BENDIGO 31 AUG - 10 SEP

DEATH OF A SALESMAN

The term American Dream, the upward mobility idea that anyone can achieve their own success no matter their background, was coined by James Truslow Adams in his 1931 book, The Epic of America. It is one of the themes explored in the Pulitzer and Tony award-winning play from Arthur Miller, Death of a Salesman, and its protagonist, Willy Loman. Following a six-month rehearsal period, Hearth Theatre presents what is considered one of the great 20th century plays.

THE CAPITAL, BENDIGO 1 SEP

A NIGHT OF LAUGHS

If you have a frown in need of being turned upside down, come on down for a night of laughs as part of the Geelong Art Centre’s Grand Opening Festival. Fresh from his sellout MICF run, Dave Thornton leads the way. He will be joined by Dilruk Jayasinha, who has appeared on everything from Utopia to Celebrity MasterChef, and Lizzy Hoo, a regular on Have You Been Paying Attention?.

SWEENEY PRESTON & ETHAN CAVANAGH: PRESENTATION IS EVERYTHING

The antidote to every bland lecture, dull pitch and boring presentation you’ve ever had to endure. Sweeney Preston and Ethan Cavanagh wrap up their fifteen-month tour with a live taping of their award-winning show, Presentation is Everything. Slides full of images, news cut-outs, maps, animations and the almighty graph provide the pair powerful visual aids for their pointed humour.

BALLARAT MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE, BALLARAT 26 AUG

SHADOW PUPPETRY PERFORMANCE

First released in 1943, Antoine de SaintExupéry’s Le Petit Prince, or The Little Prince, is a beloved story that tells the tale of a little boy who travels the world gaining wisdom. It has sold an estimated 140 million copies worldwide. Here, it is the inspiration behind Georgie Rose’s Shadow Puppetry Performance as part of Words in Winter. Bring out the child within you as you enter Georgie’s magical world of storytelling. An interactive workshop follows.

IMPACT DANCE COMPANY PRESENTS CHAPTER ONE

Whether you like to kick off your Sunday shoes or put on your red shoes and dance the blues, there is a little dancer in all of us. After Shannon Philip followed her dream and founded the Impact Dance Company, the Warrnambool troupe has become a tight-knit community for people of all ages to come together to share their passion for dance. Excitedly, Chapter One is their first performance.

GIG GUIDE

AUGUST 2023

THURS 17 AUG

WINTER SOUNDS FEATURING TEX PERKINS AND MATT WALKER. St. Peters Catholic Church. Daylesford. 7:00pm. Adult $59.20. Child $30.60.

VOLT JOLT - FIZZ, CHARLES & WILL. The Eastern. Ballarat. 7:00pm. $11.25.

‘BREAK STUFF’ NÜ METAL NIGHT. Sooki Lounge. Belgrave. 8:00pm. $28.60.

DZ DEATHRAYSR.I.F.F ALBUM TOUR WITH GUESTS PRESS CLUB & DUST. Torquay Hotel. Torquay. 8:00pm. $45.90.

JACK LADDER - TALL POP SYNDROME TOUR. The Bridge Hotel. Castlemaine. 9:00pm. $39.30.

WINTER SOUNDS FEATURING MO’JU, CODA CHROMA. Daylesford Town Hall. Daylesford. 7:00pm. Adult $59.20. Child $30.60.

JUAN ALBAN AND THE RESENTMENTS WITH JAKE EPIPHONE AND DAISY KILBOURNE. The Eastern. Ballarat. 7:00pm. $24.75.

IMMY OWUSU - ‘LO-LIFE’ ALBUM TOUR FEATURING COOL OUT SUN, PARVYN, KOFI BERKO. The Evelyn Hotel. Fitzroy. 8:00pm. $28.85.

THE PRESETS - 20 YEAR ANNIVERSARY SHOW. Torquay Hotel. Torquay. 8:00pm. SOLD OUT.

DZ DEATHRAYSR.I.F.F ALBUM TOUR WITH GUESTS PRESS CLUB & DUST. Sooki Lounge.Belgrave. 8:00pm. $47.95.

PUNK NIGHT. Valhalla Taroom. Geelong. 7pm. Free.

LIVE MUSIC. Bombora’s Beach Bar. Torquay. 4pm. Free.

LIVE MUSIC. Beavs. Geelong. 9:30pm. Free.

FRI 18 AUG

WINTER SOUNDS FEATURING JEN CLOHER. St. Peters Catholic Church. Daylesford. 7:00pm. Adult $59.20. Child $30.60.

MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY AUSTRALIA FUNDRAISER - WINKSY, MICK RYAN, CHUNKY LOVE AND CRUELLE DE COWGIRL. Barwon Club Hotel. South Geelong. 7:00pm. $10.

PAUL MCDERMOTT AND 1: BLOOD ORANGE. Palais Hepburn. Hepburn Springs. 6:30pm. $40.

JUKEBOX FRIDAYS. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 4pm. Free.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE. Valhalla Taproom. Geelong. 7pm. Free.

SAT 19 AUG

STUMPS - ‘LIFE’S MOVING PAST YOU’ TOUR FEATURING JET CITY SPORTS CLUB. Barwon Club Hotel. South Geelong. 8:00pm. $15.38.

WINTER SOUNDS

FEATURING ADALITA, MARTIN FRAWLEY. Bullarto Hall. Daylesford. 7:00pm. Adult $79.60. Child $41.85.

WINTER SOUNDS FEATURING WATTY THOMPSON, LEAH SENIOR. Clunes Town Hall. Clunes. 1:00pm. Adult $38.80. Child $20.40.

MOTOR CITY SOUNDS. Palais Hepburn. Hepburn Springs. 7:00pm. $25.

WINTER SOUNDS FEATURING SKYSCRAPER STAN, JARRAH OLIVE. Glenlyon Town Hall. Glenlyon. 7:00pm. Adult $33.70. Child $18.40.

UNWRITTEN LAW. Torquay Hotel. Torquay. 7:30pm. $60.70.

JESSICA MAUBOY. The Playhouse. Geelong. 7:30pm. SOLD OUT.

DAVE THORNTON, DILRUK JAYASINHA & LIZZY HOO. The Story House. Geelong. 7:30pm. SOLD OUT.

MOJO CORNER. Pistol Pete’s Food & Blues. Geelong. 9:30pm. $20.

SATURDAY NIGHT DJS. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 6pm. Free.

SUN 20 AUG

WINTER SOUNDS FEATURING

GARETH LIDDIARD, JESS RIBERIO. Bullarto Hall. Daylesford. 7:00pm. Adult $79.60. Child $41.85.

ALEX LAHEY - ‘THE ANSWER IS ALWAYS YES’ TOUR. Sooki Lounge. Belgrave. 8:00pm. $41.85.

SEAN RILEY. Pistol Pete’s Food & Blues. Geelong. 3:00pm. $15.

THURS 24 AUG

NAT’S WHAT I RECKON. Barwon Heads Hotel. Barwon Heads. 6:30pm. $45.90.

PARAQUAY, VIOLET, GLAS NOST. Barwon Club Hotel. South Geelong. 7:00pm. $18.40.

LIVE MUSIC. Bombora’s Beach Bar. Torquay. 4pm. Free.

LIVE MUSIC. Beavs. Geelong. 9:30pm. Free.

FRI 25 AUG

PAISLEY LACE, LAUREL CANYON, DE PORSAL AND BRUNETTE RED DRESS. Barwon Club Hotel. South Geelong. 7:00pm. $15.

ORPHEUS OMEGA‘TRIPLE KILL’ TOUR. Volta. Ballarat. 8:00pm. $28.84.

TENZIN CHOEGYAL.

Palais Hepburn. Hepburn Springs. 6:30pm. $35.

JUKEBOX FRIDAYS. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 4-6pm. Free.

YAWNING MAN. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 7:30pm. $39.58.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE. Valhalla Taproom. Geelong. 7pm. Free.

SAT 26 AUG

DRENCHER FEST 2023 FEATURING IN MALICE’S WAKE, BARBARION, GOAT SHAMAN, MUNITIONS, WOMB TO TOMB, DETACH ME, AUTOMATION, NEPHALEM AND SMOKE WITCH.

Barwon Club Hotel. South Geelong. 3:00pm. $34.70.

WINTER BLOCK PARTY WITH LEAH SENIOR AND FRIENDS.

The Dart and Marlin. Warrnambool. 5:00pm. $39.80.

MAGIC DIRT. Theatre Royal. Castlemaine. 8:00pm. $45.90.

THE SLINGERS.

The Bridge Hotel. Castlemaine. 9:00pm. $29.10.

WORDS IN WINTER

GALA WITH JON FAINE. Palais Hepburn. Hepburn Springs. 6:00pm. $25.

THE SIMON & GARFUNKEL STORY. Costa Hall - Deakin University Geelong Waterfront. Geelong. 7:00pm. $109 - $69.

SATURDAY NIGHT DJS. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 6pm. Free.

SUN 27 AUG

GLITORIS - ‘COME AND SAY THAT TO OUR FACES!’ TOUR. Barwon Club. South Geelong. 5:00pm. $23.50.

CANYON DUST. Daylesford Hotel. Daylesford. 6:30pm. $29.90.

DZ DEATHRAYSR.I.F.F ALBUM TOUR WITH GUESTS PRESS CLUB & DUST. Volta. Ballarat. 8:00pm. $45.50.

G FLIP - ‘DRUMMER’ ALBUM TOUR WITH JACOTÉNE. Torquay Hotel. Torquay. 8:00pm. SOLD OUT.

DAYLESFORD COLLEGE MUSIC SHOWCASE.

Palais Hepburn. Hepburn Springs. 5:00pm. $10.

JUKEBOX FRIDAYS. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 4pm. Free.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE. Valhalla Taproom. Geelong. 7pm. Free.

REECE MASTIN. Lambys. Geelong. 8pm. $44.65

SAT 2 SEP

BIRDSVILLE TO BAYSIDE - CORIO BAY EDITION. The Wool Exchange. Geelong. 7:30pm. $12.25.

WINTERBOURNE - ‘VELVET, HONEY & WINE’ TOUR. Barwon Club Hotel. South Geelong. 8:00pm. $42.85.

TEENAGE DADS WITH THE MOVING STILLS AND LOLA SCOTT. Tonic Bar. Bendigo. 8:00pm. $40.50.

LIVE MUSIC. Bombora’s Beach Bar. Torquay. 4pm. Free. LIVE MUSIC. Beavs. Geelong. 9:30pm. Free.

FRI 1 SEP

SHANDY WITH POPPIN’ MOMMAS, THE STRIPP AND JJ SPEEDBALL. Barwon Club Hotel. South Geelong. 7:00pm. $18.40.

TEENAGE DADS, THE MOVING STILLS, LOLA SCOTT. Torquay Hotel. Torquay. 8:00pm. $44.10.

ROSE TATTOO WITH GUESTS THE POOR. Burvale Hotel. Nunawading. 8:00pm. $45.

BONES & JONES. The Bridge Hotel. Castlemaine. 9:00pm. $22.95.

THE DAMON SMITH PIANO TRIO. Palais Hepburn. Hepburn Springs. 6:30pm. $25.

FANNY LUMSDEN. Meeniyan Town Hall. Meeniyan. 7:00pm. $46.15.

CHARLIE MARSHALL AND PETER FARNAN. Daylesford Hotel. Daylesford. 7:00pm. $23.50.

KHAN // LUCID PLANET WITH BONESPACE AND THE SINSEMILLIAN. The Eastern. Ballarat. 7:00pm. $17.35.

MISSY HIGGINS WITH GUEST RACH BRENNAN.

The Story House. Geelong.

7:30pm. $100 - $90.

THURS 31 AUG

RUST, CONVICT CLASS AND CLIFFORD PARADE. Barwon Club Hotel. South Geelong. 7:00pm. $18.40.

LEHMO. Sooki Lounge. Belgrave. 8:00pm. $41.85.

PAUL KIDNEY EXPERIENCE, SMALL LIZARD BIG BRAIN, PRIMITIVE DESERTERS AND NO MANS LAND. The Eastern. Ballarat. 7:00pm. $11.25.

DISTORTA E.P LAUNCH WITH DIMINISHED REASON, FALL AND RESIST, COSMONAUT AND DEVIL IN THE DUST. Volta. Ballarat. 8:00pm. $19.40.

WINTERBOURNE - ‘VELVET, HONEY & WINE’ TOUR. Sooki Lounge. Belgrave. 8:00pm. $44.90.

TIN STARS AND HOLLY DUNN & THE BLUEGRASS FUNDAMENTALISTS. Pistol Pete’s Food & Blues. Geelong. 9:00pm. $20.

SATURDAY NIGHT DJS. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 6pm. Free.

SUN 3 SEP

WINTERBOURNE - ‘VELVET, HONEY & WINE’ TOUR. Volta. Ballarat. 8:00pm. $43.10.

ELVIS: AN AMERICAN TRILOGY. The Capital. Bendigo. 7:00pm. Adult $69.50. Concession $59.50. Child (Under 16) $49.50.

ORIGINAL SUNDAYS. Beavs. Geelong. 5:00pm. Free.

ROOFTOP SUNDAYS. Geelong Hotel. Geelong. 2pm. Free.

LIVE MUSIC. Bombora’s Beach Bar. Torquay. 12pm. Free.

THURS 7 SEP

METAL NIGHT. Valhalla Taroom. Geelong. 7pm. Free.

LIVE MUSIC. Bombora’s Beach Bar. Torquay. 4pm. Free.

LIVE MUSIC. Beavs. Geelong. 9:30pm. Free.

FRI 8 SEP

THE EXPLODING UNIVERSE OF ED KUEPPER - FULL BAND SHOW FEATURING MARK DAWSON, PETER OXLEY AND ALISTER SPENCE WITH CHARLIE MARSHALL AS GUEST. Queenscliff Town Hall. Queenscliff. 7:00pm. $68.

JUKEBOX FRIDAYS. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 4pm. Free.

SAT 9 SEP

SLEEP D - ‘ELECTRONIC ARTS’ OZ TOUR. Torquay Hotel. Torquay. 8:00pm. $25.10.

AOW MOST WANTED NIGHT 3. Volta. Ballarat. 6:00pm. $28.85.

PYREX - ‘NOISE FOR NO REASON’ EP LAUNCH WITH SLOMO, GROVE. The Eastern. Ballarat. 7:00pm. SOLD OUT.

STARS. Palais Hepburn. Hepburn Springs. 7:00pm. $35.

PSEUDO ECHO - ‘THE ULTIMATE’ TOUR. Lighthouse Theatre. Warrnambool. 8:00pm. $65.

BLUE SUNDAY BLUES BAND. Pistol Pete’s Food & Blues. Geelong. 9:30pm. $20.

SATURDAY NIGHT DJS. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 6pm. Free.

STALKER. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 7:30pm. $24.85.

THURS 14 SEP

CREEDENCE CLEARWATER COLLECTIVE.

Costa Hall - Deakin University

Geelong Waterfront. Geelong. 7:30pm. $69 - $49.

METAL NIGHT. Valhalla Taroom. Geelong. 7pm. Free.

LIVE MUSIC. Bombora’s Beach Bar. Torquay. 4pm. Free.

LIVE MUSIC. Beavs. Geelong. 9:30pm. Free.

FRI 15 SEP

THE GROGANS -AUS/ NZ SPRING TOUR. Torquay Hotel. Torquay. 8:30pm. $39.90.

LEAH SENIOR - ‘THE MUSIC I MAKE’ ALBUM LAUNCH. The Bridge Hotel. Castlemaine. 9:00pm. $29.10.

BLUEHOUSE. Palais Hepburn. Hepburn Springs. 6:30pm. $15.

‘ROCK & ROLL SENSATION’THE ELVIS AND BUDDY SHOW. Lighthouse Theatre. Warrnambool. 7:30pm. $59.

JUKEBOX FRIDAYS. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 4pm. Free.

SLOWLY SLOWLY & STAND ATLANTIC CO-HEADLINE REGIONAL TOUR WITH TOWNS. Torquay Hotel. Torquay. 8:00pm. SOLD OUT.

MAGIC DIRT. Volta. Ballarat. 8:00pm. $45.15.

MARIAH MCCARTHY TRIO.

Palais Hepburn. Hepburn Springs. 6:00pm. $15.

PSEUDO ECHO - ‘THE ULTIMATE’ TOUR. The Capital. Bendigo. 8:00pm. $65.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE. Valhalla Taproom. Geelong. 7pm. Free.

SUN 10 SEP

MATT JOE GOW WITH JEREMY BEGGS.

The Eastern. Ballarat. 5:30pm. $23.50.

END OF THE LINE CABARET. Sooki Lounge. Belgrave. 6:30pm. $39.80.

MUSIC OF THE NIGHT - AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER TRIBUTE TO ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER AND THE WEST END MUSICALS. The Capital. Bendigo.

2:00pm. Adult $69.95. Concession $64.95. Child (Under 12) $34.95.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE. Valhalla Taproom. Geelong. 7pm. Free.

SAT 16 SEP

THE SUPERJESUS - ‘LIGHTS OUT’ NATIONAL TOUR. Barwon Club Hotel. South Geelong. 7:30pm. $49.

BOY & BEAR. Torquay Hotel. Torquay. 8:00pm. SOLD OUT.

THE SUPERJESUS - ‘LIGHTS OUT’ NATIONAL TOUR. Barwon Club Hotel. South Geelong. 7:30pm. $49.

BOY & BEAR. Torquay Hotel. Torquay. 8:00pm. SOLD OUT.

SUGAR SHOW GIRLS - CABARET CHERIE. Palais Hepburn. Hepburn Springs. 7:00pm. $30.

LIVE MUSIC. Beavs. Geelong. 9:30pm. Free.

SUGAR SHOW GIRLS - CABARET CHERIE. Palais Hepburn. Hepburn Springs. 7:00pm. $30.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE JUKE. The Juke. The Grovedale Hotel. Geelong. 8:30. Free.

LIVE MUSIC. Beavs. Geelong. 9:30pm. Free.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE JUKE. The Juke. The Grovedale Hotel. Geelong. 8:30. Free.

SATURDAY NIGHTS DJS. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 7pm. Free.

SATURDAY NIGHTS DJS. Medusa Bar. Geelong. 7pm. Free.

SUN 17 SEP

MY HEROES - ‘FOO FIGHTERS’ TRIBUTE NIGHT. Barwon Club Hotel. South Geelong. 6:30pm. $10.

SUN 17 SEP

MY HEROES‘FOO FIGHTERS’ TRIBUTE NIGHT. Barwon Club Hotel. South Geelong. 6:30pm. $10.

BENDIGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: SCHEHERAZADE. Ulumbarra Theatre. Bendigo. 2:30pm. Adult $50. Concession $40.

BENDIGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: SCHEHERAZADE. Ulumbarra Theatre. Bendigo. 2:30pm. Adult $50. Concession $40.

THE STEVIE WONDER STORY. The Capital. Bendigo. 7:30pm. Adult $75.

THE STEVIE WONDER STORY. The Capital. Bendigo. 7:30pm. Adult $75.

BOY & BEAR (SECOND SHOW). Torquay Hotel. Torquay. 8:00pm. $69.99.

BOY & BEAR (SECOND SHOW). Torquay Hotel. Torquay. 8:00pm. $69.99.

THE GROGANS -AUS/ NZ SPRING TOUR. Pelly Bar. Frankston. 8:30pm. $34.90.

SAT 16 SEP

THE GROGANS -AUS/ NZ SPRING TOUR. Pelly Bar. Frankston. 8:30pm. $34.90.

THE SUPERJESUS