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BELLARINE ON THE RISE

Rising stars of The Bellarine, Bones and Jones, Carly Jorja, Brunette Red Dress, Paraquay and Heath Robertson Band, will be celebrated in a special all-ages concert, Bellarine On The Rise.

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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.

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EDITOR

Tammy Walters

PARTNERSHIPS

& CAMPAIGN MANAGER

Matt Wilkinson

DESIGNER

Riley McDonald

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Tammy Walters

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Alex Callan, Chester Ogilvie, Chloe Cicero, Kaya Martin, Lucas Radbourne, Benjamin Lamb, Chloe Waddell, Jacob Mccormack

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EDITORIAL NOTE

In

1980, The Rolling Stones wrote a song titled ‘She’s So Cold’.

Æ Whilst not directly about temperatures, and definitely about the fire in the loins, the title is something that has made its way back into my regular rotation as the winter freeze starts bearing down. Fortunately for us all, the winter woes won’t stick around as the region heats up with incredible music and arts offerings.

This month we turn the spotlight out onto Port Phillip Bay’s peninsula, where emerging talent is pooling. Bones and Jones, Carly Jorja, Brunette Red Dress, Paraquay and Heath Robertson Band are the rising stars set to hit the stage at Bellarine On The Rise in August for an all-ages spectacular. The music madness continues as we check in with Vacations, Kingswood and Pez, welcome honourary Australian’s Bonny Doon into the country and introduce newbies Mood Spill. There are so many reasons to get out in Geelong this month with Tourism Geelong and The Bellarine highlighting the region’s greats and ReSound Festival taking over the city centre. As comes the wins so do the losses and we have been struck with grief over the impending closure of beloved blues home, Pistol Pete’s Food ‘N’ Blues. Though we will desperately miss the gumbo and fried chicken and waffles, we must look to the venues that are still slinging scrumptious feasts like Club Chin Chin, Hanaya Fusion Cafe, Sawyers Arms and The Juicy Bar.

So get out there Geelong – explore, eat and embrace the winter freeze.

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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COVER

Our June cover is Bones and Jones for Bellarine On The Rise.

Credit: Kyle Dobbie

NEWS

NORWEGIAN ALT-POP STAR GIRL IN RED HAS DROPPED AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES THIS JULY

Norwegian alt-pop artist and songwriter girl in red is heading back down under and is set to play some of her biggest Australian shows yet this July. With her latest album, I’M DOING IT AGAIN BABY! in tow, girl in red’s DOING IT AGAIN ASIA/OCEANIA TOUR will grace stages in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

COMEDY

SENSATION JIM JEFFERIES DROPS STADIUM TOUR DATES THIS AUGUST

Rock star comedian, TV show host, podcaster and writer Jim Jefferies, is bringing his Give ‘Em What They Want Tour to Australia this August. The tour will see him play arenas, theatres and convention centres including Costa Hall Geelong on Thursday 8 August and Margaret Court Arena on Friday 9 August, for what is set to be a sold-out run of shows.

METALCORE

GIANTS THE AMITY AFFLICTION ARE TOURING AUSTRALIA IN NOVEMBER

Metalcore titans The Amity Affliction will embark on a headline tour across the country this November for the 10th anniversary of their acclaimed album Let the Ocean Take Me Joining The Amity Affliction across all dates will be Ice Nine Kills, We Came As Romans and Heavensgate. They will play Melbourne’s John Cain Arena on Thursday 14 November.

BILLIE EILISH ANNOUNCES

EPIC HIT ME HARD AND SOFT TOUR WITH FOUR ROD LAVER ARENA DATES

Presented by Live Nation and Frontier Touring, nine-time Grammy awardwinning, two-time Academy Awardwinning, and two-time Golden Globe-winning songwriter, Billie Eilish will be heading to Australia, playing a mammoth four arena shows in each city across Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Qudos Bank Arena and Rod Laver Arena from 18 February until 8 March 2025. The tour comes as her third album HIT ME HARD AND SOFT drops jaws.

SCOTTISH INDIEROCKERS BELLE AND SEBASTIAN ANNOUNCE AUGUST SHOWS WITH BADLY DRAWN BOY

With their twelfth studio album Late Developers adding to an already beloved catalogue of music, Scottish indie-rock icons Belle and Sebastian will be bringing it all to Australian fans on a longawaited tour of the country this August. They play Melbourne’s Palais Theatre on 23 August.

EAST

SYMPHONIC METAL GIANTS CRADLE

OF

FILTH ARE TOURING IN SEPTEMBER WITH INFECTED RAIN

It’s been many years since Cradle of Filth last darkened our horizon, and we can now hail their return this September to commemorate the release of their Best Of Live album, Trouble & Their Double. They will be playing Northcote Theatre in Melbourne on Friday 27 September.

POLARIS TO HEAD ON A

MAMMOTH NATIONAL TOUR THIS JUNE/JULY

Australian heavy metal heavyweights Polaris are heading out on tour, venturing to uncharted regional corners of the country this June/July. Polaris will be carrying Melbourne nu-metal group Ocean Grove, Sydney melodic hardcore kids, Bloom and Sydney hard-hitters Inertia in their luggage and allowing them to jump up on the same stages.

GIPPSLAND WINTER FESTIVAL HAS EVERYTHING FOR THE PERFECT WINTER ESCAPE

For its fourth consecutive year, the East Gippsland Winter Festival welcomes the winter solstice across a month from 21 June to 21 July. Dubbed one of the largest winter festival programs in Australia, East Gippsland Winter Festival celebrates ‘How We Winter’ in the region through a dedicated program of art, performance, music and gastronomy.

SONIC YOUTH ICON KIM GORDON IS TOURING AUSTRALIA IN JULY

Legendary musician and multidisciplinary artist Kim Gordon is bringing The Collective Tour to Northcote Theatre on Wednesday 24 July. The cofounder of Sonic Youth, author of Girl In A Band, celebrates her second solo album across the tour and during her appearance at Illuminate Adelaide’s Unsound Club.

STORY OF THE YEAR ANNOUNCE 20 YEARS OF PAGE AVENUE

AUSTRALIAN

TOUR

Page Avenue, the debut title for American post-hardcore team Story Of The Year hit hard 20 years ago. Now the album is getting its special treatment as Story Of The Year tour it down under, along with their greatest hits. Along for the celebration are friends Senses Fail, and Australia’s Behind Crimson Eyes.

ROCKWIZ LIVE! IS BACK WITH BRIAN, JULIA AND THE ROCKWIZ ORKESTRA HEADING ON THE ROAD

The RocKwiz gang are back on buses, trains, planes and automobiles and coming to a theatre near you - quite literally as they cover 34 Australian towns. The Victorian list includes Frankston, Geelong, Gippsland, Bendigo, Ballarat, St Kilda and Swan Hill. The tour kicks off 8 October and concludes in Adelaide on Thursday 5 December.

INTRODUCING GUM / AMBROSE KENNY-SMITH

Yet another supergroup has spawned from the King Gizzard and the Wizard Lizard limbs with Ambrose KennySmith teaming up with Jay Waton of Gum, Pond and Tame Impala for a new album. Their new record Ill Times is ready to drop 19 July.

THE ICONIC ST KILDA FILM FESTIVAL IS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS THIS MONTH

Presented by City of Port Phillip the program features more than 150 films to be shown over 52 screening sessions at venues across St Kilda and South Melbourne. The famous opening night event will be held at The Astor Theatre on Thursday 6 June featuring a superb selection of Australian short films that will amaze, amuse, and astound. It runs until 16 June.

COSTA HALL WILL BE UPLIFTED BY THE

AUSTRALIAN

YOUTH ORCHESTRA THIS JULY

The Australian Youth Orchestra (AYO), Australia’s most prestigious youth ensemble, returns to Victoria for two powerful performances with Mood: Mahler and Wagner, on Saturday, 13 July at Costa Hall, Geelong/Djilang and Sunday, 14 July at Hamer Hall, Melbourne/Naarm.

AUDIENCES ACROSS AUSTRALIA ARE SET FOR A BOWTIFUL DAY AS EMMA MEMMA COMES TO TOWN

Beloved children’s entertainer and former yellow Wiggle, Emma Memma announces national Australian tour. The big, bright, orange Butterfly Bus will be spotted around the country between June and October as the ARIA-awardwinning children’s musical marvel brings her Boop and Twirl Tour to Aussie families far and wide.

OLIVIA RODRIGO

ANNOUNCES FIRST-EVER RUN OF AUSTRALIAN DATES FOR CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED GUTS WORLD TOUR

‘vampire’ and ‘get him back!’ singer Olivia Rodrigo will be playing four nights at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on 9, 10, 13, 14 October. The tour supports the singers sophomore album GUTS, which was released 8 September 2023 via Geffen Records; a record that garnered critical acclaim, racking up six Grammy nominations including an Album of the Year nod and a Song of the Year nod.

NAARM/MELBOURNEBASED PUNKS THE MAGGIE PILLS GO GOLD FOR NEW RELEASE AHEAD OF UPCOMING REGIONAL VIC TOUR

The Maggie Pills have unveiled their rebellious, raucous new single ‘GOLD’ - a track perfect for their upcoming live shows. They will be playing the belter track at their upcoming shows at The Eastern Ballarat on 8 June, Trash Cult Records Bendigo on 15 June and finally The Bridge Hotel Castlemaine on 22 June.

INDIGENOUS

MUSIC PIONEER BART WILLOUGHBY HONOURED AT THE AUSTRALIAN MUSIC VAULT

In a testament to his enduring impact on Australian music, Bart Willoughby, the 2024 APRA AMCOS Ted Albert Award Winner for Outstanding Services to Australian Music, is being celebrated with a new display at the Australian Music Vault in Arts Centre Melbourne. The exhibit offers a glimpse into Willoughby’s remarkable 50-year career as a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist.

10

YEARS OF WONDER: SOVEREIGN HILL’S WINTER WONDERLIGHTS RETURN

Float through fake snow and glistening lights this winter at Ballarat’s living museum, Sovereign Hill, for Winter Wonderlights. For ten years, gold-mining museum Sovereign Hill has transformed into a winter wonderland for the festival and it will be returning again, from Friday 28 June to Sunday 21 July 2024.

BIGSOUND REVEALS FIRST ROUND OF SPEAKERS

The anticipation for BIGSOUND 2024 is building as the first wave of speakers has been unveiled, promising a lineup packed with industry heavyweights and rising stars set to converge in Brisbane this 3 to 6 September. The first announcement sees Amy Taylor, Elijah, Korda Marshall and more join the lineup.

YOU ME AT SIX ARE COMING BACK TO AUSTRALIA FOR LAST EVER SHOWS

British rockers You Me At Six are finishing up their 20 year career with final shows in Australia in January 2025. They will be heading to major cities Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth next January. Along for the celebration are special guests, Cardiff natives and Loudwire proclaimed “UK’s most exciting new rock band”, Holding Absence.

UK SHOEGAZE PIONEERS RIDE ANNOUNCE

AUSTRALIAN AND NZ TOUR FOR LATEST ALBUM INTERPLAY

Creating the blueprint for shoegaze in the 80’s, with an incredibly colourful career since then, Ride return. Since reforming in 2014, the band have released three albums including the latest Interplay which they are now taking on the road, heading down under to play six dates across Australia and New Zealand, including Melbourne’s famed Forum Theatre on Saturday 10 August 2024.

CHILDISH GAMBINO BRINGS THE NEW WORLD TOUR TO AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

Childish Gambino is bringing his The New World Tour to Australia and New Zealand via Frontier Touring and AEG Presents. The long-awaited Australia and New Zealand leg kicks off on 28 January 2025 at Auckland’s Spark Arena, entering into Australia for Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Perth in February 2025.

SPIDERBAIT CELEBRATE 20 YEARS OF ‘BLACK BETTY’ WITH A NATIONAL TOUR

20 years ago a ’55 chevy zoomed through suburban streets in the Spiderbait ‘Black Betty’ music video. To celebrate the longevity of the song and the bands mammoth career, Spiderbait have announced a national headline tour, The Black Betty 20th Anniversary Tour, taking to ten cities around Australia from August through to October.

EUREKA HOTEL HAS REOPENED ITS UPSTAIRS ROOFTOP

In September of 2023, the 1850 Little Malop Street building was given back its name. The Eureka Hotel had life breathed back into it, taking back its stake as the premier live music and entertainment venue. Now the hotel has returned to its full former glory, and is growing, as they reopen that rooftop venue.

ALLDAY ANNOUNCES AUSTRALIAN TOUR

To celebrate his upcoming fifth album release of The Necklace, Allday jumps on tour. The Necklace Tour, presented by triple j, will kick off on Friday 23 August at The Gov in Adelaide and travels through Perth, Melbourne, Sydney with his final destination, Brisbane playing the Princess Theatre on Saturday 3 September.

JURASSIC WORLD: THE EXHIBITION TAKES OVER MELBOURNE THIS AUGUST

T-Rex, triceratops, velociraptors and brachiosaurus invade Melbourne’s The Fever Exhibition Hall from 2 August as the Jurassic World: The Exhibition pops up. From the Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment franchise starring Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard, the 2700 square metre exhibition transports explorers into the dinosaur park set.

BEN LEE IS HEADING TO QUEENSCLIFF TOWN HALL FOR AN INTIMATE SHOW

On the eve of announcing his new solo album This One’s For the Old Headz due to be released on his very own Weirder Together Records later this year, Ben Lee announces he will be coming to Queenscliff Town Hall. The multiARIA-Award winning Australian national treasure will be playing an intimate show on Friday 9 August.

KING STRINGRAY SHOW OFF THEIR ‘BEST BITS’, ANNOUNCING SINGLE AND REGIONAL RUN OF SHOWS

Northern Territory giants King Stringray announce their new single ‘Best Bits’ will be dropping in one week on Wednesday 29 May through Sony Music, partnering the announcement with a regional run of shows across July and August. They will be playing Castlemaine’s Theatre Royal, Frankston’s Pier Bandroom and Torquay Hotel on the Surf Coast.

NEW PROPRIETOR TAKES OVER QUEENSCLIFF TOURISM FIXTURE THE BLUES TRAIN

After a twelve-month campaign, the announcement of new ownership for the Queenscliff attraction The Blues Train comes in time for the operation’s 30th year. Arizonabred, Bellarine resident Daniel Kay is welcomed as the new controller of the iconic shake, rattle and rolling railway experience.

LISTEN OUT WILL RETURN THIS SEPTEMBER WITH A MAJOR HIP HOP LINEUP

Get ready to dance because Listen Out is returning in 2024. With 21 Savage, Skepta, Lil TJay and Tyla at the helm, Listen Out will head to Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne and Sydney, with Listen In returning to Adelaide and New Zealand this September and October.

SKEGSS SHARE NEW SINGLE ‘SPACEMAN’ WITH

MUSIC VIDEO AHEAD OF NATIONAL TOUR

‘Spaceman’ sets out to reintroduce the lads Ben Reed and Jonny Lani. The track comes with a tour announcement, seeing Skegss hit the road for the So Far From Spaceman Tour from Friday 14 June to play at Torquay Hotel, with Frankston and Ballarat the same weekend, before the boys venture into Queensland and New South Wales to complete a lucky 13 show run.

THE ANIMALS THE FAREWELL TOUR: THE FINAL ENCORE SEES THE BAND TAKE A FINAL BOW

After selling out every show of their February / March tour just a few months ago, the demand was too hard to ignore. The Animals return for a massive 29 date final tour, The Farewell Tour: The Final Encore seeing them hit regional Victorian centres in July.

SARAH

CARROLL DROPS ANOTHER GEM FROM HER UPCOMING ALBUM, ‘THE ARTIST ORIGINAL’ Bellarine music darling, Sarah Carroll has released a new single from her upcoming 5 July LP, NQR&B, track ‘The Artist Original’. The release is a heart-breaking tale, further elevated by the touch of a cri de coeur steel solo from Leigh Ivin.

CROWDED HOUSE ANNOUNCE AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND TOUR

Multi-platinum-selling rock band Crowded House is set to embark on their 2024 Australia and New Zealand Gravity Stairs Tour in support of their upcoming album, which was released on Friday, May 31. The highly anticipated tour kicks off on Saturday, November 9, in Wellington and wraps up on Saturday, December 14, in Meanjin/Brisbane.

COLD CHISEL ANNOUNCE 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR, HEADLINING RED HOT SUMMER TOUR

Cold Chisel reveal that they will celebrate 50 years as a band with the “The Big Five-0” tour, playing their own headline shows and leading the Red Hot Summer Tour in Armidale and Ballarat. With singer Jimmy Barnes having a near-death experience in December of 2023, the tour will be a true celebration of the band’s staying power.

CATFISH AND THE BOTTLEMEN TRIP DOWN UNDER FOR SEPTEMBER TOUR

As they begin a monumental new chapter, multi-Platinum-selling, BRIT Award-winning, arena-filling giants Catfish and the Bottlemen announce their much-anticipated return to Australia this September. Starting in Sydney at the Horden Pavilion, the band led by the charismatic Van McCann will be looping through Melbourne, Newcastle, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.

QUEENSCLIFF MUSIC FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES 2024 HEADLINER MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD

The Queenscliff Music Festival is excited to unveil Michael Franti & Spearhead as the exclusive headliner for its 2024 edition. Known for their electrifying soul-rock sound, Michael Franti & Spearhead will bring their high-energy live performance to the festival, marking their only Victorian show this year. The festival returns 22 - 24 November.

STARS ARE RISING IN THE BELLARINE

The Bellarine has long boasted excellence. From the award-winning wine region as carried by Bellarine Estate, Scotchmans Hill, Jack Rabbit, Terindah Estate and so many more, to the unforgettable tourism experiences like the Portarlington Mussel Tours, Adventure Park, Searoad Ferries and the iconic Blues Train, it’s a spot that breeds superior.

WORDS BY TAMMY WALTERS

Æ That same sentiment goes for the stellar selection of musicians spawning from the region. Spotlighted every year during the Queenscliff Music Festival, the artistry in The Bellarine is next level. There are the obvious selections of Sarah Caroll, her late husband Chris Wilson and their sons George Carroll Wilson of moniker Pollyman fame, and Fenn Wilson, or the impressively talents folk stylings of Leah Senior, as well as the previous alumni of the area, the entire makeup of King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard, The Murlocs and Fraser A. Gorman. But it’s the newcomers that are stirring up the sonic barrel.

The Bellarine is an undeniable breeding ground for musical mastery and one of the staple songwriters of the area is recognising this. Andrea Robertson is a mainstay musician from the Bellarine, playing in multiple acts including the Von Robertson’s, a family music project paying homage to The Sound of Music singing clan, The Von Trapps, and her own solo project where she has just released a new album Seasons Vol 4. Her own experience as a musician during this dwindling time in the live music industry, post-covid and at a time when venues are struggling, saw her look to her own children who are trying to grow their independent careers in the live music scene.

Son, Heath Robertson, has his own self-named musical outfit, Heath Robertson Band, playing his own blend of indie rock blues. Daughter, Carly Robertson, is better known by her moniker Carly Jorja where she plays glorious, stirring acoustic lead folk tracks. She is also the drummer behind three-piece indie-rock band Cooldad. It was this motherly and music mentor perspective, as well as a keen understanding of the talented Bellarine music ecology, that led Robertson to devising upcoming event Bellarine On The Rise.

“Being a musician myself and trying to find opportunities that really promote like-minded people like this has been difficult for established musicians who are trying to regain a sense of what playing live means after the pandemic. I’m thinking from my own experience, but then looking at these younger emerging artists who haven’t necessarily had the opportunities and are still stepping into themselves and their sound can be especially difficult. I wanted to afford them the space to play without any strings attached and shine a spotlight on a region that is thriving with talent,” explains Robertson.

Bellarine On The Rise aims to amplify the sounds of the emerging talent of The Bellarine through concert. Taking place at the Barwon Club on Sunday 4 August 2024, Robertson has curated a stellar lineup of young bold, Bellarine stars rising up through the ranks.

“The Bellarine has become a bit of a hotspot for musicians, particularly young musicians who have gone through St Ignatius College or Bellarine Secondary, who both have incredible music programs, and then having the Potato Shed in between to practice and perform has made it quite the hub for young talent. This event is a chance to showcase that,” says Robertson.

As supported by a City of Greater Geelong Community Grant, with sponsorship from Hi Sushi, the lineup boasts brilliance with country-tinged vintage rock melting pot, Bones & Jones, Robertson’s own musical offsprings Carly Jorja and Heath Robertson Band, guitar-pop piece, Paraquay and alt, indie rockers Brunette Red Dress.

Bones and Jones are headlining the show. As hard hitters from The Bellarine music front, they are known for their frenetic energy during their live shows which has seen them in support seat for industry giants King Gizzard and the Wizard Lizard, The Nude Party (USA), The Murlocs and Twin Peaks (USA). The band who formed in highschool have also appeared on many-a festival stages including Port Fairy Folk Festival, Meadow, Boogie Festival and more. With three albums and an EP to their name, the band have garnered a bunch of recognition from NME, The Guardian, and triple j, and earnt them nominations at the The Australian Music Prize and Victorian Music Awards.

It’s not just something in the water turning The Bellarine into a music hub. The combination of community and space become obvious platforms, with both Heath Robertson and Madeleine Cope of Brunette Red Dress acknowledging the opportunities that naturally present themself due to the access to performance venues and stages, and word of mouth advertising.

“It’s really easy to get involved with other people or to know other people to get involved with because it becomes word of mouth and just feels like a really big community when it comes to music. Especially because there are so many different spaces out there that allow you to play as well, like The Potato Shed and Queenscliff Music Festival which offers an all-ages stage which is amazing.”

Heath Robertson agrees, “There’s a real community of artists on The Bellarine who are all trying to be involved in the scene and it comes in part with the lifestyle but also the fostering from education systems here like Bellarine College and the Potato Shed as a performing arts space.”

Carly Jorja (Robertson), believes the incredible support and wealth of knowledge from established musicians in the community has extended this transition from school band to professional musician.

“The mentors around The Bellarine are forcing us to do what we need to do. It’s the encouragement from people who are doing well in the industry like Sarah Carroll and Steven McEwan and even my mum, Andrea Robertson, who are leading by example and showing us that our dreams in the music industry can be achieved.”

The momentum of these acts will be showcased during their Bellarine On The Rise sets. Not only is the concert shining the light on the young musicians, but it’s also opening the doors to an all-ages crowd to experience the raw talent of the region and engage with live music. The under 18 crowd are often closed out of live music venues in the Geelong market, and The Bellarine cohort are vocal advocates for those doors to be opened.

Carly Jorja says, “My brother was a bit older than me and always able to go to these awesome shows that I wanted to go to. When I turned 18 I started going to a bunch of gigs that I wanted to go to and could never go to myself, but that was of course when 2020 happened and there were limited shows. I always just felt like I was missing out on going to gigs and I don’t want that for this generation to feel the same way.”

Angus Buchanan-Turnour of Paraquay says, “I love playing all-ages gigs. I grew up in Geelong and had to go to Melbourne or the Corner to see all-ages events. We need to create space for young performers to play and for young music lovers to become part of the live music scene.”

Bellarine On The Rise is set to be a showstopping spectacular for everyone.

BELLARINE ON THE RISE

WHERE: THE BARWON CLUB HOTEL

WHEN: SUN 4 AUG

VACATIONS’ Joey Van Lier on Touring, New Music and Jimmy Kimmel

WORDS BY BENJAMIN LAMB

Newcastle’s very own Vacations have been making waves, their unique brand of indierock popping up on a bunch of festival lineups, radio shows and even late night.

Æ The lads dropped their latest record back in January, x, which has continued to receive a lot of positive buzz from their fans across the world. We caught up with Joey to chat about it all.

“It was like a longer kind of an album process,” drummer Joey Van Lier notes. “But it feels good that it’s finally out.

“There’s obviously a lot of emotions that go into an album, and a lot of effort. So we’re really happy, we haven’t had any big disasters yet.”

Now the album’s out and Vacations have been hitting the road, they’re already thinking about getting back to the drawing board. Joey notes that once an album’s out there, it reignites the passion to get back into the studio and make the next big thing.

“There’s a lot of touring we have coming up. But we’re keener than ever to be recording new music again.

“We’ve already kind of started, but it’s tricky for us because we are split between so many places in the world. So we definitely are in a state of mind of striking while the iron is hot, just because we’re enjoying songwriting so much at the moment.”

With Vacations separated across Australia and the world, we don’t get many shows Down Under from the group, last hitting our shores for Laneway a few months back. Joey notes what it was like to be part of such an iconic touring festival, the boys’ first touring festival down under.

“It was an awesome opportunity [to play Laneway Festival]. It was just fantastic, it felt like a real homecoming.

“It had been a couple of years since we toured Australia and to be able to come back here and play one of my favourite festivals, was a big goal for us, so to finally get it was just awesome.

“And to have people show up and want to see us play is an awesome thing to see happen and, and so not expected as well,” Joey adds with a laugh.

While festivals are on a bit of a downturn at the moment, there’s no question that nothing beats an Aussie festival crowd. For a group like Vacations, they’ve played to crowds in many spots around the globe, Joey chats about how Aussie crowds stack up.

“Aussies are very fun, very rowdy. They remind me a lot of the US crowds. I don’t know if maybe it is band specific, though. Like, you know, maybe our crowd is a certain kind of person.”

The band have been making waves in the US, recently appearing on the late-night circuit, the musical guest on a recent episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live.

“It was a very good experience, [being on] Jimmy Kimmel, and also CBS mornings in New York City, they were both incredible experiences.

“Late night shows, morning shows, really help you become legitimate. A legitimate career also shows things like festivals that you can back yourself up live, you know, because that’s something we’re keen to show people that we are a professional touring band as well, you know, we can back it up.”

Joey adds what it’s like playing to American crowds, and the differences between cities.

“We’re in for a good night when it’s a college town, those are sick.”

“They really, really rowdy and almost get like frat boy energy or something. But generally, they are really good crowds, and super cool too.”

Vacations are almost heading back Down Under, recently dropping dates across the country — kicking off in Torquay and finishing with a hometown show in Newcastle.

“We’ve always wanted to incorporate more regional shows into our tours, if we had have made it work better on this tour, we would have even done some more.

“It’s a more difficult thing than some people pay credit for to put on a tour, and to route a tour, we’ve always wanted to try and do some small towns in Australia that we haven’t done before.

“Our manager suggested Torquay, and think he has relationship with some people down there. So yeah, we just thought it would be neat.”

VACATIONS

WHERE: TORQUAY HOTEL, TORQUAY

WHEN: 3 JUL

“We’re honouring our Frogstompers”

: KINGSWOOD dedicate tour to their first born, Microscopic Wars

WORDS BY TAMMY WALTERS

Like the car they take their name from, Kingwood are a band that have been full pedal-to-the-metal since day one.

Æ Their last twelve months has seen the fuel of their tour engine full to the brim with 180 shows jammed into the tank. Across six months the band loaded up a different vehicle, a bus named Peggy that they built and decked, out to play 110 shows in Australia.

“Peggy is a part of the industry now, she goes around Australia all the time with bands. Our original tour van was named Peggy from way back in the day and we thought about calling her Peggy Two or Peggy Sue, and we just settled on reincarnating Peggy into the bus,” says frontman Fergus Linacre.

Trading in Peggy for a plane for a mighty two months, the band jetted over to Europe to play another 70 shows. Chugging away to the end, the band crossed the finish line but were met with a second-wind upon their return.

“You’ve probably heard about post-tour blues before when you come off the road and get back to a normal life and it’s a strange adjustment. This was kind of the same. The week after we finished the tour, we wanted to play. It is a readjustment period from the chaos and the madness - there’s just so much going on whilst touring, to coming home and trying to relate to normal life again, especially after being away for such a long time. It’s a really difficult thing to do,” he says.

It’s this renewed energy that has seen them jump back into the studio for their highly-anticipated sixth album. The dynamic band have been chameleon-like throughout their catalogue with the adaptability to genre-jump. On this new record, there is some surprise inspiration that never would have typically been synonymous with the Kingswood name.

“We’re really happy with the music. We’ve never been more prepared. We have songs that are written really, really well, there’s no fluff. Every song is deliberate and we’re really proud of them. We have our own studio so we’re taking our own time. We’re feeling very, very excited for it. We think it’s going to be a great record. Inspiration can be linked to Tom Petty at times, it gets a little bit country - maybe Shania Twain is an influence that we’ve been leaning into but it also has some big anthemic guitar moments that we can’t wait to play live.”

In addition to the album making, the band cannot stay far away from the stage for long, embarking on a national tour in celebration of their debut album Microscopic Wars as it hits the big double-digit milestone. Microscopic Wars is worlds apart from the new album with a ferocity and intensity that landed the band into the rock space in a significant way.

“Diving back into the old songs - some of them we still play butit’s going to be a pretty heavy set. If you’re looking for ‘Big City’ or ‘Golden’, we’re not going to do it. We’re going to play all era appropriate heavy music. We’re honouring our Frogstompersthe people that fell in love with that record [Microscopic Wars], and because we’re a very diverse band that changes where people might not like this stuff or that stuff, that’s totally finewe’re not a band that repeats. We’re just going to be bringing a bunch of nostalgia for the crowd and hopefully bring back some memories and feelings,” says Linacre.

The tour which takes off through Melbourne, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sydney, Newcastle, Adelaide, Bunbury, and Perth from 2 August through 18 August has the band playing with supports, The Delta Riggs,

Death By Denim, Jacob Fitzgerald & The Electric City and Molly Rocket. That’s not all of the special guests.

“I can throw a little rumour in that there might be some OG Kingswood lineup happening. The whole gang has been chatting and there might be some appearances I think at some shows which will be excellent,” the frontman teases.

This celebratory concert not only transports the audience back to 2014, it brings the songs back to Kingswood; a band who have levelled up significantly in 10 years across production, playing and performance. “Alex [Laska - Kingswood lead guitarist ] said the same thing this morning along the lines of “we’re going to give the people that love that album the best version of the album they’ve ever heard”. It’s going to be way better than it was back then - it’s more well considered, we’re better players, best performers. We’re going to turn it up!”

The Microscopic Wars tour is unmissable for those who fell in love with the heavier side of a young Kingswood. Tickets are on sale now via Destroy All Lines.

KINGSWOOD

WHEN: FRI 2 AUG

WHERE: 170 RUSSELL, MELBOURNE

Greater things do happen in GEELONG and THE BELLARINE

WORDS BY CHLOE WADDELL

Many people jet overseas to try to escape the Victorian winter, but there is plenty happening right here in the Geelong region to help locals and visitors alike make the most of the winter season.

Æ While we all know this area absolutely shines in summer, there are a wide range of things to see and do to keep you entertained, even on the dreariest of days. Whether you’re looking for an activity for the family, somewhere to eat, or simply an excuse to get out of the house, it may be time to cancel the overseas flight, and invite your friends and your family over to explore (or re-explore) some of the local offerings of the Geelong and Bellarine region.

It’s an incentive backed by Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine, who have just launched its ‘Greater Happens Here’ campaign. For locals it heralds that “greater” is right here in your backyard; for visitors it invites them to “come here for greater”. The campaign showcases diverse winter experiences from cosy wineries and unique breweries to adventure sports and imaginative solstice events, and here are some of their clear winter winners.

When winter comes around, there is little better than a warm, hearty meal. Right in Geelong’s Little Malop Street precinct, you can find authentic Japanese ramen and dumplings, which are sure to warm you up. Of course we are talking about none other than Sober Ramen. With gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available, as well as signature dishes like their Spicy Dumpling Ramen and Signature Beef Tataki, Sober Ramen is well worth a visit. Also in the area is the new and cosy Non Disclosure Bar. With private booths for you to settle into with your friends or loved ones, this is a luxurious new stop for your Friday, Saturday, or Sunday night. If your style is more casual, Blackmans Brewery is now serving up their own craft beer, as well as local wine and spirits, in Grovedale. The family run-and-owned brewery also run affordable tours, which include a tasting paddle. Plus, with a pizza-truck onsite, it’s a great spot for the whole family.

Heading 30 kilometres away from Geelong, you will find Clyde Park. This vineyard and bistro located in Bannockburn showcases peaceful views of the surrounding hills, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There is plenty on offer, whether you’re keen on coffee and cake with your friends, a bistro lunch with your family, or a cellar door experience to taste the vineyard’s collections. If you’re looking for something more hands on, Ceres Distilling Co offers masterclasses; you can tour their distillery, learn about the art of gin making, and even make it yourself, over a 3-hour session. Did we mention you get to snack on a Charcuterie platter, sample the gin, and even take home a bottle?

For adults and children alike, it is easy to feel cooped up over the winter months. For those seeking a physical activity that is safe from the weather, The Rock Adventure Centre has you covered. Catering for children of all ages (including for birthday parties!) through to advanced adult climbers, the Geelong centre features climbing walls, a bouldering cave, a training area, and a café.

Heading down the highway, Salt Contemporary Gallery showcases contemporary art in Queenscliff. Featuring work by Australian artists, including painters, sculptors and ceramicists, perusing the gallery is an ideal rainy-day activity for lovers of contemporary art. For those not fussed by a bit of wintry weather, Lonsdale Links Golf Club is a newly redeveloped golf course in Point Lonsdale on The Bellarine. Those visiting in the off-season also benefit from reduced rates, giving you even more incentive to get out with your golf-loving-mates this winter. Inside, the golf club offers casual dining options in a cosy environment, with their lounge space even boasting an open fireplace. It’s already cold out, so why not make the most of it and go for a rejuvenating cold ocean swim or splash with likeminded people to start your morning? The Salty Bitches do just that across The Bellarine year-round, and are welcoming to others who want to challenge themselves and give it a go! Bring a friend, or find your tribe there – this is a unique way to embrace winter, and take advantage of living in this part of the world. The group are based in Indented Head, but also swim in different areas in the region. While you’re on The Bellarine, a visit to the Mussel Capital of Victoria is always a great idea. Portarlington Mussel Tours offer the opportunity to tour the bay by boat and be immersed in the mussel farming process, see mussel cooking demonstrations (with tastings!), and enjoy local produce platters and drinks on board. A range of tours are available throughout winter, and are a perfect opportunity for you to get together with your friends and family for a unique day out.

With an abundance of things to see and do, there’s no doubt that Geelong and The Bellarine is a great place to be this winter. For even more inspiration, you can visit www.visitgeelongbellarine.com.au.

SAT 22 JUNE CENTRAL

BEC GORING // DAISY KILBOURNE // ELLA SWEENEY // EMILIA FOL // HASSALL // JASMIN ADRIA // KEE’AHN //

LOUD N DEADLY // LUCY LORENNE // NATHAN SEECKTS // PARSNIP // RACH BRENNAN // RHIANNA FIBBINS // ROMANTIC BASTARDS // SID O’NEIL (The Vasco Era) // SUMMER DE VRIES // WILD GLORIOSA

THE HOT CHICKEN PROJECT // LOU’S PIZZA & WINE // MEDUSA // MURRAN - FIRST NATIONS HUB // PISTOL PETE’S FOOD N’ BLUES // POPCULTCHA RECORDS & BOOKS

LOCAL MUSIC . LOCAL PLACES

2-6PM . FREE . ALL AGES

Venue access subject to capacity limits

Scan for playing times or visit geelong.link/ReSound

There’s a new band spilling onto the scene: MOOD SPILL are set to release maiden LP on vinyl.

WORDS BY JACOB MCCORMACK

For a group of musicians that couldn’t have seen themselves playing together five years ago, in the two years that Mood Spill have been a band they have established their unique sound and coinciding energetic live presence in the Australian scene.

Æ Off the back of performing the main stage at Queenscliff Music Festival late last year, Mood Spill are gearing up to release their maiden EP on June 5 and embark upon a tour in various locations around New South Wales and Victoria to celebrate its uncorking.

This EP is particularly monumental for band member Tom Riccioni, who consistently sits on lead vocals, guitar and songwriting duties, as the 7-track will be released on vinyl, the first vinyl project he has been a part of.

“It’s really exciting to have a small body of work coming out on an actual vinyl,” says Riccioni. “It’s the first vinyl release I’ve ever been a part of, so I’m feeling very excited. We’ve been a band for about two years now, and some of the tunes have been circling, at least in my world for the last four years, so it’s also just great to be releasing some of this music.”

And yet despite Riccioni bringing a lot of his lyrical and compositional ideas to the band, from the outset Mood Spill has committed to one another to make the project a collaborative effort. One which sees band members rotating instruments and songwriting duties regularly.

“In our discussion, a few years back we decided we wanted [Mood Spill] to be a collaborative project,” he says. “I was initially coming in with most of the songwriting and had a pretty clear idea of arrangements in my head but early on the musicality of everyone in the project shone through.

“Everyone in the band is very adaptable and creative in their own way, which isn’t just limited to one instrument, everyone’s got their own ideas for arrangements.”

And it is this collaborative approach that amalgamated in the bands first ever jam, a stirring experience that saw Mood Spill construct their latest single release ‘Kieran’– a punchy 2:17 minute track, complete with guitar solo, driving drumbeat and lyrics that will have you gyrating, ‘Keiran’ is the type of song that you want to listen to again and again.

“Oli [Morley-Sattler] and I have known each other for a couple years, but we ran into each other at a festival in Victoria, he was playing in a band, I was working in a smoothie van at the time. We organised to play some music together and just had this big ol’ slam jam on some instruments. It was in that moment that we were like ‘shit, this is pretty good’.

And from that very moment Mood Spill came into being, at least in its preliminary stages, but it didn’t take long for the collaborative nature of the band to become apparent. It was only in their first rehearsal that their chemistry translated into a song being written from a jam.

“From there,” says band member Morley-Sattler, “in our first rehearsal, we wrote a song within like 15 minutes of jamming. It’s the track called ‘K ieran’, a single, which is our latest single, which is what we are using to announce the EP.”

It is this chemistry and energy that can be heard in their recorded tracks but is better represented in their live shows - a resounding disclaimer that Riccioni and Morley-Sattler outline is essential to witness the full Mood Spill experience.

“As exciting as this EP is, the best way to connect with Mood Spill is to come to a show, and to feel our energy on stage.”

For a band that has not yet released much music, Mood Spill are emerging fast and hard as a group to watch. And it is with their LP vinyl release they have been supported by a new record label Unravelled, co-founded and operated by band member Adrian Verna.

For Verna and Harry Baker, the other half of Unravelled, their endeavours stem from a strong passion for music, an ethos that Mood Spill so authentically personify.

MOOD SPILL

WHERE: TANSWELLS HOTEL, BEECHWORTH VIC

WHEN: 23 AUG

Credit: Rana Morgan

Back on tour and with new music in the works, Melbourne-rapper PEZ chats with Forte

WORDS BY CHLOE WADDELL

Celebrating 15 years of his debut album

A Mind of My Own, Melbourne-rapper PEZ is hitting the road for a national tour.

Æ With a unique career so far, including two full-length albums, collaborations, award wins and nominations, and a couple of hiatuses, crowds in Ballarat and Geelong can soon see the rapper when he rolls into town this June. PEZ sat down to chat with us about his tour, career, and exciting new music on the way.

Although performing has been a big part of PEZ’s career, it hasn’t always come easy. With a very quick rise to fame thanks to triple j, PEZ was catapulted from playing smaller gigs at the pub to performing to 10,000 people, which he was not entirely prepared for. In thinking about those early years of performing, PEZ shared that “It was so daunting and terrifying for me back then”. Now, however, PEZ says that it “is actually the best feeling in the world”. Looking forward to being able to actually enjoy performing this time round, PEZ’s upcoming tour promises new and old songs, and the chance to meet and connect with the people who come along.

Being a dad has kept PEZ busy, and has also given him and fellow rapper Eso some new inspo. “It’s a pretty tongue-in-cheek song, it’s called ‘The Dad Joke’s On You’”, he says, “me and Eso were talking about the fact that we’re dads now, and being dad-rappers, and just how funny that was”. The soon-to-be-released song offers “a really good vibe” and, more importantly, PEZ shared that “it feels like me again”.

Thinking back to how it all started, PEZ says A Mind of My Own “was so innocent and it was so naïve. It’s like, you just start making rap music because you love it, you make it in a bedroom, and then suddenly it kind of takes off and goes really insane, which I wasn’t really prepared for”. PEZ then signed to a major label, where “a lot of outside voices start to chime in” and it all became business focussed. “I didn’t deal with that very well”, and that experience, PEZ says, “made me realise that you need that little support network or foundation to protect you a bit, and help you keep being yourself and not get pulled in all these different directions to keep other people happy. It can get really contrived and just get weird, and I think that’s what happened for me, and then the love went out of it more than anything.”

“I think once I had a family and stepped away from music, all the love came back. Suddenly I was just living life and not thinking about it, and then before you know it you start writing songs again, and you’re like ‘oh, I remember this feeling! This is what it actually felt like to enjoy what you’re doing and it come from the right place’”. Now with his heart back in the game, PEZ is making music that “feels authentic again”. This authenticity is what PEZ attributed to the success of ‘The Festival Song’, which is ultimately what launched his career back in 2008. His second album, Don’t Look Down, featured Aussie icon Paul Kelly, who he met at a party. PEZ explains that he was contacted by triple j after an interview they did with Paul Kelly, where the legend was asked what music he was into; “He said my name”. At a friend-of-a-friend’s birthday, PEZ was able to introduce himself, and Paul Kelly shared that he owned and enjoyed A Mind of My Own, to which PEZ replied “that is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. If you ever want to do a song, that would be a dream”. Not too long after, PEZ was at Paul Kelly’s house throwing around ideas and listening to music. “That’s still a really special memory for me, just meeting him and having the chance to do that”.

When PEZ last toured, us regional folk made quite an impression, with him saying that “some of the regional spots were some of the most rowdy, electric shows you would have”. “You would go to those spots and everything just goes up another level from what you thought a show was, and everyone was just having such a good time”. It was a pleasure talking with PEZ, and here’s hoping that the regional vibes are as immaculate as ever when he comes back to town.

PEZ will be playing at Lamby’s Tavern on 14 June, and will be backing this up with a gig at Ballarat’s Volta on 15 June, before heading to Belgrave, Frankston, and Brunswick. Tickets are under $50, and the gigs are 18+.

PEZ

WHERE: L AMBY’S TAVERN, GEELONG

WHEN: 14 JUNE

RESOUND FESTIVAL to Reignite Geelong Live Music Scene

WORDS BY TAMMY WALTERS

Over the years the City of Greater Geelong has activated spaces in Geelong to showcase the best in local live music offerings across both venues and talent.

Æ Under the newly instated Live and Local initiative adopted by the the City of Greater Geelong with support from the Live Music Office and APRA AMCOS, the city is aiming to spotlight the places and people that make up this vibrant local music ecology. They are yet again making strides with the introduction of the ReSound Festival.

The two-day festival sees the activation of both conventional venues and outside of the box spaces transformed into festival stages hosting local talent in a walking tour program. The start of the month led in with a bang with Day One of the festival taking place. On Saturday 1 June, ReSound Ocean Grove saw five venues overflowing with bodies keen for local music offerings. Across Blackman’s Beer and Burger Bar, Driftwood Cafe, The Piping Hot Chicken Shop, Bookgrove and the newly opened Greek Restaurant KALA, fourteen talented local solo musicians and duos serenaded, stomped, swayed and soared.

Now the second iteration of ReSound is set to hit, taking over the Geelong CBD. On Saturday 22 June, six spaces in the Geelong CBD will be roaring with live music. Here’s your guide to the festival.

THE HOT CHICKEN PROJECT

A staple of Little Malop Street dining, The Hot Chicken Project will host the hats of the event. Coming in first in her signature red hat, with a guitar glued to her body is Hassall from 2.30pm. Hassall is a mainstay of the Geelong music scene who knows a thing or two about activating unconventional spaces for gigs. Her single launch last year saw her take over a bowling alley! Ella Sweeney is up next. Having also played ReSound Ocean Grove, Sweeney sticks in the mind when it comes to impeccable songwriting talent in the region. The evening is closed out by another hat wearing legend, Nathan Seeckts. Seeckts has a big voice and an even bigger love for blues and Americana diddies.

LOU’S PIZZA & WINE

Not just great pizza and wine pairings, Lou’s Pizza & Wine is all about atmosphere and for ReSound, this is definitely up there as a highlight zone for talent. A trio of talent is lined-up for Lou’s, leaning in with the magnetic Rhianna Fibbins. Having had a wildly successful career with her sister in The Sideshow Brides, Fibbins has played on stages with some of the worlds most illustrious artists including Dallas Crane, Cold Chisel , Lynyrd Skynyrd, Tim Rogers, Tex Perkins and Matt Walker. Following Fibbins is the majestic Daisy Kilbourne. Her vintage flare will hook you into her 70’s inspired world. Take a good hard look at The Romantic Bastards. From Dan Waters and Nick O’Mara, this collaboration has everything - love of the forlorn, hopeless and striking kind along with stories of vengeance.

MEDUSA

Slide into Medusa for a taste of Spain with Spanish songstress Emilia Fol jetting things off from 2.30pm. Apollo Bay’s Sid O’Neil jumps up next for a set full of reverb-laden ballads and industrial techno. Parsnips close the curtains on Medusa’s ReSound riot. Since their 2016 inception, the band have garnered a huge following which only doubled with their triumphant sophomore album Behold, exploring realms of both the outer and inner consciousness against a jangly and jolting synergy. They kick off from 5pm.

MURRAN - FIRST NATIONS HUB

Murran - First Nations Hub is Geelong’s newest innovation space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, creatives and individuals to access and thrive. To celebrate the diversity of our live music ecology local First Nations acoustic duo Mick Ryan and Renee Howell, better known as Loud n’ Deadly will be taking over, followed by a special set from ‘Better Things’ songstress Kee’ahn. Kee’ahn has been taking over the airwaves, particularly with their stunning collaboration with powerhouse Emma Donovan for ‘Take No More’.

PISTOL PETE’S FOOD N BLUES

Just a week before the beloved blues bar shuts its doors after ten dedicated years, Pistol Pete’s Food n Blues will take part in the ReSound festivities. True to the nature of their decade service in championing the local live music scene, they will be host to emerging and mainstay talent. Naarm artist Lucy Lorenne kicks things off from 2pm, with her five piece band playing much-needed ‘BarbieRock’ bangers. ‘Live Guitarist of the Year’ 2020 nominee at the National Live Music Awards, Bec Goring will be taking to the corner stage at 3.15pm. Closing out the Pistol Pete performances is the soulful sounds of Gloria Ragesh brainchild, Wild Gloriosa.

POPCULTCHA RECORDS & BOOKS

Dip into a trio of talent upstairs at Popcultcha Records & Books. The dedicated music and publication house will host the haunting vocals of Summer de Vries from 1.45pm, Surf Coast song-builder Jasmin Adria from 3pm and local legend Rach Brennan in her new solo project from 4.15pm.

Full program information including set times can be found via the City of Greater Geelong Website.

RESOUND FESTIVAL

WHERE: VARIOUS LOCATIONS, GEELONG CBD

WHEN: SAT 22 JUN

US rockers, BONNY DOON’s connection to Australia runs deeper than the band name

WORDS BY TAMMY WALTERS

US folk-rocker’s Bonny Doon are set to feel right at home in Australia, as they head to Anglesea this month to play a special show with The Sound Doctor.

Æ

“WE’RE GOING TO BONNIE DOON. WE’RE GOING TO BONNIE DOON” - the thick Australian-accented singalong pops into the mind immediately when this Detroit band name is mentioned. Whilst the name runs synonymous with iconic town and quotes of 1997’s film The Castle, Bonny Doon’s band title has a double-genesis.

“The band name was inspired by the town of Bonny Doon in Northern California. And although it’s spelled differently, it is also a reference to the 1997 Australian film The Castle ,” explains lead singer and guitarist Bobby Colombo. Outside of name, Bonny Doon shares a great deal of DNA with the Australian landscape; in particular the punk music landscape of the mid 2010’s.

“When we formed this band 10 years ago a lot of what we were influenced by was the 2010’s Australian punk scene; Dick Diver, Eddy Current Suppression Ring and Scott and Charlene’s Wedding especially. Lately I’ve been loving all of the Emma Russack and Lachlan Denton stuff,” says Colombo. With a handful of Australian punk in their back pocket, and the other pocket filled with experience as the backing band for Waxahatchee, Bonny Doon were bound for excellence in music-making. Aired with natural laid-back sonic impressions, Bonny Doon has crafted a style that sounds simple but is a deeply intricate tapestry of graceful melodies and textured instrumentation. Taking from the soft rock stylings of the 1970’s, Bonny Doon has shaped their sound to be sophisticated but accessible. Look no further than their latest collection, last year’s hit album Let There Be Music, an album they will be showcasing on their journey down under.

Of their upcoming flight, Colombo cannot hide his excitement.

“Playing for people on the other side of the world from us is a dream come true. If you would have told me when we started this band that we’d get the chance to go on tour in Australia I wouldn’t have believed you. Looking forward to a proper flattie as well,” he adds.

As with all Sound Doctor performances, who are known for bringing world-class performers to the intimate Anglesea Memorial Hall, Bonny Doon’s show is bound to impress the local live music loving community. Not just because Bonny Doon has a stellar set of songs, but because their live shows are packed with surprise and intrigue.

“I try to lean into the vulnerability of performing our music in its most raw and natural form. I like when I go to a show and the band sounds totally different than what their record sounds like.

I remember seeing the Goon Sax in Detroit in 2019 and I was blown away by how punk and raw they were live, I think about that one a lot. RIP Goon Sax,” explains Colombo

Adding to the allure is the support act, one Jess Ribeiro. The Naarm/ Melbourne-based folk chameleon has just returned from her recent UK/European tour with renewed energy for Australian audiences, so much so she just stamped out a new album Summer of Love. Ribeiro has been taking the album to regional audiences over the last month, continuing on through June. Featuring singles, the titular ‘Summer of Love’, ‘Everything Is Now’, ‘Jump The Gun’ and focus track ‘Maybe If I Wore Sunglasses Inside I Won’t Feel Tired’, Ribeiro builds intimate walls through the highly-anticipated ten-track collection of songs and will elevate them at The Sound Doctor show. For the evening Ribeiro brings her unique band show for one night only to showcase the breadth of her well-honed craft, traversing songs of isolation, loss, love and healing.

It’s this level of class, distinction and uniquity from performances that has built The Sound Doctor brand as one of offering an authentically awesome audience experience. The not-for-profit association is dedicated to promoting and encouraging engagement with the community and connection with people through music and arts. The Bonny Doon / Jess Ribeiro Surf Coast sandwich will be no different, as will their upcoming shows with Andy Golledge Band, New Zealand crooner, Marlon Williams, and Troy Cassar-Daley at the end of the year.

For now, locals will be blown away by the boys from Bonny Doon - the band that is. Tickets to the upcoming show are on sale now via Humanitix.

WHERE: ANGLESEA MEMORIAL HALL

WHEN: FRI 14 JUNE

ARTS GUIDE

WORDS BY CHESTER OGILVIE

I WANNA BE YOUR ANTI-MIRROR

New languages, sensations and attitudes are explored in this showcase of early-career artists. Curator Alicia Frankovich: “When you are young, you are in a rush. There is an urgency to address concerns from a subject position, in time for them to be important, important to this moment, and in hope of any ongoing moment.” Your artists are Hugo Blomley, Christina May Carey, Georgina de Manning, Erin Hallyburton, Ashika Harper, Rachelle Koumouris and Zeïna Thiboult.

LA TROBE ART INSTITUTE, BENDIGO UNTIL 18 AUG

NEW BEGINNINGS & BEN CRAWFORD: BETWEEN ADDRESSES

Two new exhibitions have arrived at Boom this month. New Beginnings is a group celebratory exhibition launching Boom’s new gallery. Featured artists are Amber Stokie, Hop Dac, Kasper Raglus, Sam Massey, Jen Tarry-Smith, Cricket Saleh and Harry McEvoy. Ben Crawford’s Between Addresses, meanwhile, is a body of works that acts like a painting album of the houses and places in which the artist has lived throughout his life.

BOOM GALLERY UNTIL 29 JUN

A LINDSAY MENAGERIE

The Lindsay family of Creswick is widely regarded as one of the country’s leading artistic families, with no fewer than five siblings becoming recognised professional artists – Percy, Lionel, Norman, Ruby and Daryl. In their works, birds loomed large, owed to their fascination with their neighbour’s collection of parrots, macaws and peacocks. This exhibition is presented alongside the gallery’s recreation of the family home’s sitting room where evenings would be spent sketching, storytelling and playing piano.

ART GALLERY OF BALLARAT UNTIL 7 JUL

JIMMI BUSCOMBE: TOGETHER

Known for his creation of The Warrnambool Wombat mural which was made into a video by the ABC’s Emily Bissland, Jimmi Buscombe specialises in wildlife art, portraiture, anamorphic public art, murals and street art. He is also a two-time winner of People’s Choice at the Warrnibald Portrait Prize. In Together, sixteen new alla prima oil paintings and acrylics, all on beautiful linen, will explore our joyful and innate connection with the natural world.

THE F PROJECT, WARRNAMBOOL UNTIL 23 JUN

THE O’DONOHUE & KISS GIFT

Long-term donors of the Geelong Gallery, Rosemary Kiss and the late Conrad O’Donohue, gifted works to the Gallery back in 2010 and 2019. This collection of prints and drawings includes those by Rick Amor, Honore Daumier, Jim Dine, Grahame King, Hertha Kluge-Pott, Helen Ogilvie, Salvatore Rosa and James McNeill Whistler. A highlight is Francisco Goya’s Bien te se está (It serves you right), one of 82 etchings in the Spanish artist’s celebrated ‘The Disasters of War’ series.

GEELONG GALLERY UNTIL JULY 28

THE ROBOTS ARE COMING! What does AI and robotic technologies mean for us? What will be its impact on the creative and local community? Artists from the Goldfields region will tackle the big questions through 2D, 3D and metaverse works. Artists include Aimee Chapman, CreateA, Julia Day, Paul Fletcher, Heidi Franklin, Wes Franklin, Annelise Henderson, Martin Lee, John O’Loughlin, Bridie Margaret O’Toole, Andre Sardone, Lauren Starr, Ivan Sun (Curator), Claire E Tennant, Sarah Wallace-Smith and Kain White.

DUDLEY HOUSE, BENDIGO 14–24 JUN

WORLDING

‘Sorry, I’m in my own world’ is perhaps something many of us have uttered at some stage when snapped from a moment. In Worlding, a dozen artists will invite you into their world –how they build it and un-build it, imagine it and re-imagine it through their practice. Your artists are Brook Andrew, Madison Bycroft, Katthy Cavaliere, Daniel Crooks, Julie Davies, Stano Filko, Patrick Pound, Alex Rizkalla, Si Yi Shen, Kieren Seymour, Batia Suter and Tarryn Love.

PLATFORM ARTS, GEELONG UNTIL 19 JUL

MICHELE BEEVORS: ANATOMY LESSONS

“Life is as dear to a mute creature as it is to man.” Step inside the web of Michele Beevors, a web of the living and the dead. Here you will find life-size skeletons, each sculpture telling a story – from the collection of animals by museums and collectors, on through to Western safari hunters and those who have perished due to human encroachment. The role of animals in our lives is complex.

NATIONAL WOOL

MUSEUM, GEELONG UNTIL 27 OCT

HOMEGROWN HEROES: THE STORY OF BAKED

WORDS BY TAMMY WALTERS

Æ

“Everyone tries to start something from scratch whereas baked has come out of something organically. Anyone that can think back long enough remembers when we were just a little YouTube Channel that James Morris [Director] had and the first act who ever did it was Didirri who I used to manage. That was when it was Baked Goods, way back when, when it was lower production. And then came 2020,” says one fourth of the directorial team, Larissa Hume (née Ryan).

baked was birthed as a creative agency with an expansive scope for storytelling. The First Nations co-owned and creator-led social enterprise aims to open doors for creatives from all corners of the cube to collaborate with musicians for performance and content creation.

“We’ve witnessed the changing landscape and at some point you actually care about the creativity and you care about the purpose and you find, like us, that you have to do something about it. That’s what happened with baked,” explains Hume. “We’re at the point where if we get hired by the artist and the stakeholders, it doesn’t have that vision or purpose because it’s just there to sell the artist or the product whereas if it is created around a scene or a vision or a mission, everyone gravitates around that vision or purpose and it becomes a real collaboration. It’s trying to see it as a collaboration where the artist and all of the creative roles get to have that space to get together and have a yarn about what we’re trying to achieve.” Their scope for storytelling has led them to offer intimate live performances where audiences become part of the experience. From having candles as merch to doing vinyl pressings of live performance that become a keepsake, going DIY with pasteup’s and activating unconventional spaces for live sessions, baked are breaking the mould of performance production and content making.

“What are we doing to try to make each element feel as special as it should feel. It’s been hard because it doesn’t make much sense initially to do small capacity shows, particularly when you want higher profile and higher production, but if we can do lots of things like that and it can be truly homegrown, we can have so much by having homegrown stories and honouring those homegrown stories. I think there needs to be a focus back on that.”

It’s a foundation that keeps the community coming back, continually being moved by and connecting with the most powerful and emotive expressions of our nation’s music. Their collaborations thus far have included RVG, Bumpy, The Rions, DMA’s and Maple Glider to name a few, all being intimate and unforgettable experiences for both artists and audiences.

“We’re doing so much with so little so the more we can connect the better.”

THE NATIONAL WOOL MUSEUM COVERS ANATOMY LESSONS

WORDS BY TAMMY WALTERS

Æ The 2006 museum of madness film, Night At The Museum, with Ben Stiller captivated audiences when the Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton came to life and trudged through the American Museum of Natural History.

In a similar fashion, the newest exhibition from Geelong’s dedicated texture and fibre gallery, the National Wool Museum will be structured with skeletal sculptures of animals with an aim of offering inquisitive exploration, not just of whether they came to life in the night within the 1872 CJ Dennys & Co Woolstore historic building.

Titled Anatomy Lessons, this exhibition from Australian artist Michele Beevors is one of intrigue and distinction, set to captivate guests with the meticulously crafted, life-size skeletons accurately portraying the internal makeup of real animals. Beevors dedication to the practice ensured accuracy in the measurement and formation of each animal’s skeleton. From the measurements, to drawing, and onto the moulding of the skeleton structure, which saw Beevors employ materials of steel, wire and foam, the creation of Anatomy Lessons is one of intricacy. The process was completed by delicately knitting over the framework in the flesh and fur colours of the animal to build stimulating displays reflective of the natural world.

Pairing the pieces with their concept designs and drawings, and positioning each sculpture in a staged natural environment, Anatomy Lessons focuses on the contemplative aspect of making and modelling, reflecting on historical practices of collecting whilst also inflicting inquiry of the ongoing conservation challenges faced by all species.

This is an incredibly exciting exhibition to make its way into the National Wool Museum with Michele Beevors being renowned in her academic and arts practices. Originally from Australia, Michele Beevors has been practicing in New Zealand for the last 20 years. She is Head of Sculpture at Dunedin School of Art, Otago Polytechnic, New Zealand’s oldest, and one of its most prestigious, art schools. Beevors has exhibited in galleries, museums, and exhibition spaces across New Zealand, Australia and Vienna with art that is defiant, unconventional, and moving. Anatomy Lessons encompasses all of these traits.

In addition to the exhibition, Beevors will be leading a knitting workshop, teaching the methods of fur stitch and polypropylene knitting. Held on Sunday 9 June from 11am - 2pm, this workshop is accessible to those that have intermediate levels of knitting skills. At $45 for the session, which includes all materials and a guided tour of the Anatomy Lessons exhibition, this is a must for craft enthusiasts.

WHERE: NATIONAL WOOL MUSEUM, 26-32 MOORABOOL STREET, GEELONG

WHEN: 7 JUN–27 OCT

STAGE GUIDE

WORDS BY CHESTER OGILVIE

THE REAL INSPECTOR HOUND

Moon and Birdboot are feuding theatre critics invited to review a murder mystery play set at Muldoon Manor, “an opulent home amid marshes and swamps near a cliff”. The trouble is, a madman is on the loose, a storm is brewing and Inspector Hound is having difficulty getting to the manor. From the Castlemaine Theatre Company comes this Tom Stoppard tongue-in-cheek play-within-a-play parodying classic theatre mysteries in the style of Agatha Christie.

ETTY STREET STUDIO, CASTLEMAINE 5–14 JUL

WOMEN OF WIT

The Bendigo-bred Women of Wit showcase kicked off in 2018 as a way to encourage a different voice on the stand-up comedy stage. New stage plays, ABC segments and solo tours have followed as a result. Last year’s fourth installment sold out, so you know where it’s heading this year. Your line-up is Prue Blake (RAW Comedy winner 2021), Patti Fawcett (Class Clowns winner 2019), He Huang (Comedy Festival All-Stars) and Alex Ward (Have You Been Paying Attention), plus a local mystery guest.

THE ENGINE ROOM, BENDIGO 5 JULY

TROPHY BOYS

It’s the Grand Finale of the Year 12 Interschool Debating Tournament and the all-boys team from the elite St Imperium College are ready to come out all guns blazing. ‘Feminism has failed women’ is the topic and this young team of go-getters is comprised of PM-in-the-making Owen, softboy-jock Jared, Scott, the dopey son of a lawyer, and nerdy enigma David. Performed by a female and non-binary cast in drag, black comedy, privilege and power collide in this production from Emmanuelle Mattana.

THE OPEN HOUSE, GEELONG 14 & 15 JUN

A DATE WITH DEATH

Ellen Moore is dying. As the old woman awaits her fate, her younger self becomes the main character as the psychological and emotional impact of death is explored for the individual and those who will be left behind. Written and directed by Jon Amesbury, The Death of Ellen Moore is a one-act play presented as part of Ballarat National Theatre’s A Date with Death season. Ten courses in all will showcase a selection of treats venturing into the great beyond.

OPEN DOOR, SEBASTOPOL 5–14 JUL

9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL

First there was the film. Then there was the television series. Then there was the musical. And through it all was the same goal: showing the boss who’s the BOSS! With a score from Dolly Parton, the 1980 film features in the American Film Institute’s 100 Funniest Movies list. Presented by Block Music Theatre Inc, sing along to the story of Doralee, Violet and Judy, three workmates pushed to their limit by their sexist and egotistical boss.

CIVIC HALL, BALLARAT 4–14 JUL

LETTERS TO LINDY

Words running into their millions would have been written about Lindy Chamberlain who, in 1980, was accused, and later wrongfully convicted, of killing her nine-weekold daughter, Azaria. It is one of Australia’s most publicised murder trials. Here, Alana Valentine and the Terang Theatre Troupe present Letters to Lindy, a dialogue that examines a mother’s loss and a nation’s obsession. It is a portrait of resilience.

WARRNAMBOOL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL, COMMERCIAL HOTEL, TERANG 22 & 23 JUN

ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND

Alice has stumbled down a rabbit hole and enters a most curious world. Curiouser and curiouser, you may say. There’s a white rabbit who’s late for a very important date. There is a Mad Hatter, with a pocket watch dipped in butter. There is a queen with a penchant for croquet, and the occasional beheading. And a Cheshire Cat who enjoys the madness. Bendigo’s Uncertain Curtain Theatre delivers a fantastical journey based on the stories of Lewis Carroll.

THE CAPITAL, BENDIGO 22 & 23 JUN

BRING ME THE HORIZON

POST HUMAN: NeX GEn

Æ Bring Me The Horizon have long been one of the hardest acts to categorise in the modern day alt-rock/metal scene. Not only has every release in their catalog seen the English based outfit drastically change their sound, it’s also always been two steps ahead of the crowd, with each of their 7 of their releases delivering a sound that’s ended up being the dominant direction of alternative heavy music for the next few years to come.

Their consistent influence is undeniable, and their newest release, POST HUMAN: NeX GEn, is no exception to this sentiment. Melding elements of pop-rock, emo, metal, drum and bass and hyperpop all in one, NeX GEn is a kaleidoscopic boiling pot of genres, styles and influences. It’s chaotic, yet perfectly relevant, delivering a sound that ties in seamlessly with the Y2K emo resurgence ever so prevalent on Tiktok.

‘YOUtopia’ and ‘LosT’ lean heavily into new age pop-punk, with vocalist Oli Sykes’ newly found clean vocals matching the high-pitched tones of the ambient guitar leads and upbeat two-step rhythms. ‘Top 10 staTues tHat CriEd bloOd’, ‘a bullet w/ my namE On’ and ‘n/A’ tie in turbulent hyperpop breakdowns and anime-dub synths akin to 100 Gecs or Cake Pop, while ‘p.u.s.s.-e’ utilises Cynthoni’s (fka. Swerslvt) trademark dark electronica production to reroute into thumping drum ‘n bass territory.

In other curve balls, ‘liMOsIne’ sees the group channel sleazy distorted rock stylings akin to Deftones; ‘DIg It’ ushers in experimentation with slow-burning harmonics and reverb-laden shoegaze breakdowns, and ‘AmEN!’ dabbles into rap/rock changeups thanks to collabs from Lil Uzi Vert.

It’s an album that is so diverse and forward-thinking that it’s hard to place amongst any sub-genre of the current alt-rock/metal scene, completely separating the group into a genre of their own. And before any die-hard fans start claiming that “Bring Me The Horizon aren’t metal anymore”, NeX GEn does see the group finally bringing back Oli Sykes’ famous gutturals.

Still, it’s a release that cuts its teeth more on pop-rock than it does death metal–which will undoubtedly annoy certain long term fans– giving younger fans the perfect gateway album to discover the world of alternative rock and metal.

Having grown up in the early 2000’s, it’s hard to look past the influence that acts like Linkin Park had on the mainstream, ultimately introducing breakdowns and screaming to the masses, and in turn, influencing an entire new wave of metal musicians. Here’s hoping Bring Me The Horizon’s new found accessibility can have that same impact on the NeX GEn of heavy music listeners. If their playcounts a week after release are anything to go by, it seems they already have.

LABEL: SONY MUSIC AUSTRALIA/RCA

RELEASE: OUT NOW

GLASS BEAMS

Mahal

Æ It feels like we’ve been waiting forever for a new Glass Beams release.

In actuality, it’s only been three years, which is an incredibly standard timeframe given the rigorous touring schedule that the group have maintained over the last few years. Still, it’s felt like forever, with the replayability of their debut EP, Mirage, being so strong that over those three years, most of us have listened to the group’s 4 released songs infinite times over.

So any new music from the Glass Beams camp is something to celebrate –even if it’s only another four song EP.

Continuing to expand on the instrumental blueprint that Khrungbin’s first two albums left behind, Glass Beams follow up EP, Mahal, blends jammy genre-fluid grooves between ominous Indian inspired instrumentals, spaghetti-western swagger and ethereal elements of psychedelic flair.

From the mesmerising basslines and swirling layers of synths uprooting the infectiously groovy ‘Orb’, to the slowed, pulsating beats and alluring raga rock psychedelia of ‘Snake Oil’, and Western-infused jazz fusion of the title track, Mahal further showcases the tight interplay and instrumental grooves that the Melbourne/Naarm based trio have become renowned for and expands on them spectacularly.

It’s easy-listening at its easiest. Not only does Mahal fill the shoes of Mirage, it gives Glass Beams a full-on growth spurt, upping their unique breed of world music to a whole new level and showing why they’ve been such a highly regarded act amongst Melbourne’s music scene.

LABEL: NINJA TUNE

RELEASE: OUT NOW

FREE LIVE SPORTS

I’ll Fish When I’m Dead

Æ There’s something so imperfect about Free Live Sports that makes them such an endearing listen. Their sophomore release, I’ll Fish When I’m Dead, has a ruthless simplicity to it, breathing brevity into its 22-minute output through matter of fact lyricism, angular art-punk riffs and down-trodden post-punk.

A mix between Talking Heads and The B52’s, I’ll Fish When I’m Dead sees the Tassy-based outfit bouncing wonky rock ‘n roll with a very off the cuff feeling to it between two different vocalists to help to reroute their sound and style from song-to-song. ‘Magpies’ channels Steven Rose’s deep timbre and nonchalant drawl, giving a sense of urgency alongside country twanged garage punk riffs. ‘Tell Me Again’ and ‘Sweaty Thighs’ on the other hand, maintain a wistful childlike demeanour, with bassist Madeleine Laing’s meandering and untrained vocals adding a jovial playfulness in its uninhibited and unpretentious delivery.

‘D.I.Cry’ leans heavier into into artpunk territory with spacey synth leads, ascending vocal harmonies, and trippy avant punk flair, while ‘Too Cute’ takes a step to the left to add in 70’s surf-rock swagger with and percussion slightly reminiscent of Head Injuries era Midnight Oil.

I’ll Fish When I’m Dead is punk that doesn’t take itself too seriously. A release that’s unapologetically unpolished, giving a fun snapshot of the Tassy based upstarts and their left of centre, carefree take on punk.

You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To

Æ As one of the most abrasive hardcore outfits of recent times, Knocked Loose certainly weren’t an act tipped to break through to the mainstream. While genre peers Turnstile and Show Me The Body channel elements of indie, punk and alt-rock into their sound, giving them widespread appeal to listeners who wouldn’t normally dabble into the chaotic and aggressive realm of hardcore, Knocked Loose keep it 100 at all times. So naturally it came as a bit of a surprise when the beatdown hardcore heroes ended up being the ones to topple Taylor Swift off the number 1 spot on the charts – but we couldn’t be more here for it.

True to the group’s form, album number three, You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To , doesn’t waste any time easing listeners in. ‘Piece by Piece’ quickly delivers chaotic off-kilter mathcore riffs, wobbly rhythms evoking feelings of unease and collapse, and Bryan Garris’ famously snarled high-pitch vocals. ‘Suffocate’ slams you with reggaeton breakdowns, bouncy riffs, and sinister guest features from pop-turned-goth superstar Poppy, while ‘Sit & Mourn’ goes down the rabbit hole of nü metal, channelling melodic elements akin to System of a Down in its use of harmonic builds and dissonance.

Although, what’s most impressive, is that Knocked Loose have seemingly managed to make their old music sound soft. Impossible, I know. But on You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To, Knocked Loose triples-down, delivering their most exciting, unhinged and unrestrained body of work yet.

PEGGY GOU

I Hear You

Æ Having chipped away as a permanent fixture of the underground festival scene for the past decade, South Korean born, London-raised, Peggy Gou, has undoubtedly made her mark as a dominant force within the alternative dance scene.

Although over the past year, Gou hasn’t just made a name for herself in the mainstream, she’s taken over it – possibly more than any alternative DJ/Producers to come in the recent years before her. Sure, Fatboy Slim and Moby were favourites of music supervisors in the 90’s, and Calvin Harris briefly dated Taylor Swift –but they still weren’t fronting the cover of Vogue or popping up on red carpets at the Cannes film festival like Peggy Gou is.

On her debut, I Hear You, Gou continues to show the masses what all the hype is about, mixing her way through a collection of styles to bounce between 90’s trance rompers (‘Back To One’), 80’s disco sparkle (‘Purple Horizon’) and 80’s future funk (‘I Go’).

Certified bassline burners ‘It Goes Like (Nana)’ and ‘Lobster Telephone’ step away from Gou’s acid-house roots to deliver polished disco-pop gems perfect for radio-play, while ‘Seoulsi Peggygou’ sees Gou’s South Korean heritage shine through the inclusion of bi-lingual lyricism and traditional Korean instruments such as the gayageum.

It’s only been recently that Gou has started her ascent to the top of the commercial charts, but if I Hear You is anything to go by, she should start making herself comfortable atop of the podium.

A FLAIR FOR HAIR AND BEAUTY

Æ Do you know your cat eye from your Twiggy? Is contouring on your radar? Do you have a flair for hair?

If you are passionate about the hair or beauty industry or have a curiosity for both hairdressing and makeup artistry, The Gordon have you sorted! Introducing their Certificate II in Salon Assistant course, which offers you the best of both worlds and helps you to decide which path is right for you. The best part (not the centre or side parts of the hair styling) is that it is entirely free! Under the Victorian Government framework, eligible students will only need to pay for materials and resources to undertake the certification.

The purpose of offering this dynamic course is to give budding beauticians and hairdressers a taste of both professions.

“During the program, you can try out a variety of professions in the hair and beauty industry, knowing your qualification will give you multiple pathways for employment or further studies. Salon Assistant graduates have the opportunity to continue studies in their preferred area. This course is an excellent way to start your career and prepare you for a hairdressing or barbering apprenticeship, or beauty traineeship,” says Jacinta Ramsay, The Gordon’s new Hair and Beauty Program Lead.

As with all courses at The Gordon, students are given both theoretical and practical learning, with the Salon Assistant course offering hands-on learning to get students job ready.

“Learn real-skills you need to work in a busy hair salon or day spa. Working and learning within The Gordon’s very own salon

‘The Studio’ will teach you shampooing and basin service techniques, how to communicate and prepare clients for services, basic hair styling, and product knowledge,” says Ramsay. The course is also delivered by industry experienced and practicing professionals, ensuring that the translation of study to work is accurate.

Ramsay explains, “Our industry experienced teachers are extremely dedicated to the success of each student. They deliver real-world training in the classroom to set you up for career success. We’re also connected within local salons in the Geelong region and surrounding areas, which helps you prepare for work placements and set yourself up for career success.”

In addition to gaining significant industry knowledge flexible to both study and workplace, the course is also adapted for flexibility in contact hours.

“With just two study days per week, and the option to complete the course as a subject through school, you can become a qualified Salon Assistant in as little as six-months. Our students also love the opportunity to take on a work placement and earn money while they’re learning – with Free TAFE, it’s a win, win for your bank account.”

Course applications for mid-year intake are now open. Start your career in hair or beauty today at thegordon.edu.au

GEELONG ARTS CENTRE’S MUST-SEE SHOW OF LOVE & INCLUSIVITY:

FOURTEEN

Æ The year is 1999. The same year that June was first officially recognised as Pride Month, a 14-year-old Shannon Molloy was experiencing the most pivotal year of his young life, grappling with the complexities of growing up gay in Australia. Fourteen, a brand new theatre production coming to your arts centre from 30 – 31 August, tells the heartfelt story of growing up queer in regional Queensland and explores the struggles, the excitement, the heartbreak and the joy of it all, from school yard confrontations to finding your people and learning what it is to be proud.

“I wrote a book about my experiences of growing up gay in regional Queensland in the late 1990s, chronicling not just the hellish hardship, but also the glimmers of hope, kindness and love that got me through – the reasons I survived.”

—SHANNON MOLLOY

That book, now a national touring stage show, provides audiences of all walks of life the opportunity to resonate with not only the queer community, but with parents and siblings who’ve had to step up for someone they love, for kids from broken homes, for those from a suffocating small town and ultimately, for anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t belong.

Honouring their commitment to standing with the LGBTQIA+ community, Geelong Arts Centre is proud to program performances within their SEASON 2024 that showcase queer and non-binary storytelling. Celebrating Australian storytelling and starting important conversations, Fourteen is the perfect blend of honesty, comedy, colour and connection.

“The very last thing I imagined was my life being saved by a cheesy late ’90s bubblegum pop song.”

—SHANNON MOLLOY

Tackling heavy themes and raw emotion, this theatre piece finds the perfect balance of nuanced storytelling with a pumping mega mix of your favourite 90’s bangers. Spinning the likes of the Spice Girls, Britney Spears, JLo, Kylie Minogue, Vanessa Amorosi, Shania Twain, Toni Braxton & Cece Peniston (just to name a few), this production will leave your heart full, smile wide and soul ready for a boogie.

Head to geelongartscentre.org.au to lock in your tickets to Fourteen today.

Please note, this show contains coarse language, mature themes, simulated violence, and depictions of self-harm, suicide ideation and sexual abuse.

WHERE: GEELONG ARTS CENTRE, 50 LITTLE MALOP STREET GEELONG

WHEN: 30–31 AUG

A farewell to PISTOL PETE’S FOOD ‘N’ BLUES

BY TAMMY WALTERS

Much like Robert Johnson, Pete Raimondo found himself at a crossroads last month when considering the lease renewal of his beloved South American blues restaurant, Pistol Pete’s Food ‘N’ Blues. Whilst there was no deal with the devil in exchange for becoming a guitar virtuoso like the former, the crossroads presented two paths - to stay or to go.

Æ In especially unfortunate news for the Geelong hospitality and local music scene, Raimondo made the heartbreaking decision to walk the unbearably difficult path leading away from the establishment. Citing economic pressures, a downturn in customer traffic and general viability pressures of trading, the decision has been made to bid farewell to not only a beloved hospitality hotspot and a teeth-cutting live music venue but an institution and community built from a decade of dedication.

It’s a month long journey to the end of the road when the illuminating blue and red neon guitar sign hanging overhead the entryway of the grand establishment powers off, and they’re making sure that the road travelled is not alone. Immortalising their ten years, Pistol Pete’s Food ‘N’ Blues are inviting their supportive community to join in on meals, music, stories and celebrations until their final day of service on Sunday 30 June.

In the spirit of storytelling, the Pistol Pete’s Food ‘N’ Blues book is full of tales full of friendship, triumphs, tasty food and talented songbirds.

What was once a desolate, dreary corridor of Geelong became a hospitality hallway with Pistol Pete’s serving as one of the first businesses in the revitalisation of Little Malop S treet. With The Wizard of Oz emerald 1/3 offset tiles bordering the exterior of the symmetrically designed entrance, Pistol Pete’s quickly became an enticing environment for the locals. Stepping through the glass doors transports you into South America with music memorabilia lined walls, coloured bunting hanging across the ceiling, the aroma of spicy, juicy cuisine floating through the service area, a local or international blues, Americana or roots band tucked into the corner on busy nights and a warm southern hospitality greeting from Pete and the team.

Pistol Pete’s prides itself on authenticity not just in their genuine customer service that makes you instantly feel at home but in their recipes of the south. The menu tells a tale of tradition, honouring the recipes of the region - “just like how mama makes it”. Dark roux, vegetables, chicken, sausage, and shrimp served over rice, better known as Gumbo is the signature Louisiana dish

that Pistol Pete’s salutes. It is joined at the table by their exciting combination of fried chicken and waffles, the New Orleans born fried seafood sandwich the PoBoy, the spicy sensation of their jambalaya, stacked burgers sat atop of the signature red and white checkered paper that comes with a pickle speared on top, fresh oysters, mouthwater catfish, and, of course, the piece de resistance side of cornbread. Paired with a beer or an Ole Smoky Moonshine (peach flavoured every day of the week), prepare for a flavour journey across the Pacific Ocean.

Senses are heightened with the blues, Americana, and roots geniuses swinging in the front corner. The years have seen international, national and local talent grace the stage including Grant Haua, Stefan Hauk, Anna Scionti, Nathan Seeckts, Sean Riley, Dean Zucchero, Andrea Robertson, Sarah Carroll, Tristan Bird and more.

The memories won’t stop here as many more are to be made across June. The month started strong on the music front with Oscar LaDell and will continue as Shane Pacey Trio with Dave Fester and Paul Blasi jump in on 7 June, Maskell Love Band swing by Saturday 8 June, Sammy Owen and Liam Kealy in the Burning B3 Trio trot through on Saturday 15, and Lounge Lizards blown in on Saturday 22 June. The venue is also participating in City of Great Geelong’s ReSound Festival on the same day, with performances from Lucy Lorenne, Bec Goring and Wild Gloriosa.

Getting the gang back together for a final send off the only way Pistol Pete’s knows how, they will be hosting a New Orleans Farewell with Jules Boult & The Redeemers on Friday 28 June followed by a big Blues Farewell featuring Maskell Love Band, Blue Sunday Blues Band, Andrea Robertson Band with Sarah Carroll, Wayne Jury & Eddy Boyle and Lounge Lizards on Saturday 29 June. The latter is already sold out as familiar faces farewell the beloved venue.

As with all cherished live music venues that come to an end, they will forever be immortalised in memories and merch. Thankfully Pistol Pete’s still have their 10 year anniversary designed merchandise available including t-shirts, hoodies, s auces, gift vouchers, books, caps and beanies. May Pistol Pete’s forever stay close to your heart and mind, literally, with these pieces.

So come on Geelong, let’s make the final month the most memorable for Pistol Pete’s Food ‘N’ Blues, and give them the goodbye, farewell, auf wiedersehen, so long and thank you that they deserve.

WHERE: 93 LITTLE MALOP STREET

VENUE GUIDE

CLUB CHIN CHIN

GAME ON! CLUB CHIN CHIN is now open in Geelong.

Æ Restaurateur Chris Lucas’ famous Southeast Asian diner has made a new home at GMHBA Stadium. Opening the door for a one-year pop-up, the restaurant is set to bring Chin Chin’s signature bold, vibrant flavours and high-energy approach to dining to its brand-new home within GMHBA Stadium.

“From growing up in Belmont to now opening my first venue in Geelong, I couldn’t be prouder,” says Chris Lucas.

“Launching a third Chin Chin outpost in my own hometown is a dream come true. And doing it in collaboration with my beloved football team, the mighty Cats — well, it doesn’t get any better than that.”

The space itself is undeniably Chin Chin, accented in the restaurant’s signature hot pink hues, with an aesthetic that radiates the same vibrant energy. A neon ‘Chin Chin’ sign greets diners at the entrance, giant bunny figures beam boldly from the windows and vintage-style Chin Chin posters grace the walls, while at night the whole venue is bathed in a pink neon glow. The restaurant also opens onto a terrace overlooking the oval, offering the ultimate spot to soak up game-day vibes.

Helming the kitchen, Executive Chef Benjamin Cooper has brought with him his famous Feed Me menus, as well as à la carte options aplenty, the menu celebrating familiar favourites alongside brand-new dishes exclusive to Geelong.

Diners will find themselves digging into Chin Chin Classics – such as the much-loved kingfish sashimi or braised wagyu beef pad seuw – in addition to newcomers like crispy prawn spring rolls and a panang curry of twice-cooked lamb. Pouring alongside an all-new cocktail list, the taps are showcasing local beer from Blackman’s Brewery and the wine list features hometown heroes including Jack Rabbit, Yes Said The Seal, Leura Park, Mulline, Bannockburn, and Oakdene.

AFL game-goers can book a table before a match, while regular programming will see Club Chin Chin open to diners on Thursday evenings for dinner, Friday and Saturday for lunch and dinner, and Sunday for lunch.

WHERE: JOEL SELWOOD STAND GMHBA STADIUM, 370 MOORABOOL ST, SOUTH GEELONG (ENTER VIA GATE 14)

OPEN: THU 5PM–LATE FRI & SAT 12PM–LATE SUN FROM 12PM (LUNCH ONLY)

HANAYA FUSION CAFÉ

Are you on the hunt for a local hidden gem? Well look no further, we’ve found the perfect new place for you to obsess over. Readers, introducing Hanaya Fusion Café.

Æ Tucked away between Pako and Shannon Ave, this little gem is one you’re going to want to keep coming back to. Hanaya is an Asian fusion café, open for breakfast and lunch every day, as well as offering dinner on Thursday – Sundays.

The breakfast and lunch menu are complete with Aussie favourites for breakfast, like a hash brown brekkie roll, a double bacon and egg wrap or roll, and a big selection of toasties. However, it also features a vegetarian wrap with a Japanese twist, and a chicken karaage wrap.

For dinner there is more of a Japanese style menu, so we’re talking a mouth-watering ramen, pork or vegetarian gyoza, Japanese curry, roti taco sandwiches, takoyaki or a sando with a Hawaiian twist. It wouldn’t be a Japanese restaurant without ramen, and the menu features fried chicken ramen, among others. To make things even better, the staff at Hanaya encourage patrons not to be shy, and to slurp away.

Not only are your standard tea, chai and coffee selections available to order, but they also have a range of Japanese soda drinks, AND a special drink menu, that features a cold brew, espresso mojito’s, matcha mojito’s and a matcha lemonade. We also have it on good authority, that the café has its very own secret drink menu, however we are only privy to one drink on the menu, and that is the ‘Mint my Heart’ three-layer drink, that features a green mint syrup, milk and coffee. Like a cocktail, but not frowned upon to drink in the morning…

There is definitely something here for everyone, regardless of if you want to stick to what you know or branch out and try something new.

Hanaya offers both dine in and takeaway, so it really is the best of both worlds. They also stock a range of pantry items, Sweet by Nature slices, and Wallington’s own Ket Baker pastries.

WHERE: 64 ELIZABETH STREET, GEELONG WEST

OPEN: TUE–SUN 9AM–3PM THU–SAT (DINNER SERVICE) 5:30–9PM

SAWYERS ARMS

Sawyers Arms Tavern is one of Geelong’s oldest pubs offering warm hospitality, exceptional modern Australian dining and a traditional front bar.

Æ Also known as ‘Clats’, it features a beer garden and private function room. Today, Sawyers Arms Tavern is one of Geelong’s best steak restaurants.

In 2022, Sawyer’s Arm Tavern, one of Geelong’s oldest pubs, changed hands after more than 60 years with the Clatworthy family.

The iconic Newtown hotel affectionately known as ‘Clats’ was operated by Eileen Clatworthy until she was 91 years old. Under her leadership, Sawyers Arms Tavern elevated pub dining in the Geelong region with great meals and excellent service.

Today, the venue retains its family-owned credentials under current custodians, the Upham family. The pub has retained its focus on quality food and impeccable service, offering a comprehensive menu with a premium wine list.

Owner Paul Upham said, “We really want to invite people to become part of the fabric of the pub. While it’s a classic local watering hole, we also want to offer a new culinary experience in refined pub food.” Executive Chef Jackson Hunt has developed a menu that embraces modern Australian cuisine, retaining key dishes that have been enjoyed by the pub’s loyal clientele for years.

The menu comprises modern Australian pub fare focusing on fresh seasonal and local produce. It features pub favourites such as garlic bread and salt and pepper calamari to start, but also challenges your choice of a trusty pub classic, to try something new including a pumpkin and chickpea curry, a roasted duck leg, and a lamb ragu pappardelle.

You can also enjoy an express lunch, featuring a classic Sayers Arms parmi, and a prawn linguine, and a classic sticky date pudding or housemade vanilla icecream. A terrific value at just $49 for a main and dessert, and a glass of wine or beer. Available 7 days a week.

Since acquiring the business, the Upham family has renovated and extended the venue to create a diverse range of premium dining offerings. In June 2024, the opening of Eileen’s Charcoal Grill will complete the site’s trilogy of restaurants.

THE JUICY BAR

Geelong finally has a delicious and fresh juice bar again, all hail!

Æ Now, while the Acai bowl is definitely the bar’s top seller, there is a wide range of delicious options to choose from. And if you ask the team, they would have to say what they are most proud of is the health aspects of all of their products.

All of the juices and smoothies are made to order, with fresh fruit and vegetables – and to make it all better, there is no added sugar or preservatives. So you can guarantee that what you are getting is pure vitamins and nutrients.

The team at The Juicy Bar wanted to be part of something new and exciting and fresh. Opening a juice bar aligns with their current health and wellness trends, and will have a positive community impact, and who doesn’t love being part of the community and like the idea of building a village of people that can all connect and feel part of something. With a focus on quality fruit and vegetables and a personal customer experience, There’s an increasing awareness and demand for healthy food and beverage options and we love that we are making that accessible. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious, seeking out fresh, natural, and nutritious products.

The vibe of their juice bar reflects the values of health, wellness, and sustainability, creating an inviting, fun and energizing atmosphere for customers.

Trying to source the majority of their ingredients locally, with a focus on supporting small businesses, is something this team is quite passionate about. They are also always looking to support local schools by offering a canteen lunch menu that parents can be confident that their kids are not only getting a lunch that tastes good but is also good for them.

WHERE: 2 NOBLE STREET, NEWTOWN

OPEN: 7 DAYS, 11:30AM–11PM

WHERE: SHOP 6/112 PAKINGTON STREET, GEELONG WEST

OPEN: 7 DAYS, 8:30AM–4PM

GIG GUIDE JUNE 2024

For more gigs go to fortemag.com.au/gigguide

THU 6 JUN

CHARLIE BEDFORD

AMERICAN HOTEL, ECHUCA

530PM FREE

FRI 7 JUN

CHARLIE BEDFORD

RED LION HOTEL, BALLARAT

7PM FREE

RELAYS + THE MODS

ONI STREET WEAR, CASTLEMAINE

7PM $15.30

FELIPE BALDOMIR + SPECIAL GUESTS

TORQUAY HOTEL, TORQUAY

8:30PM $39.90

SHANE PACEY TRIO + DAVE FESTER, PAUL BLASI

PISTOL PETE’S FOOD N BLUES, GEELONG

9:30PM $25

CHUNKY LOVE

THE BARWON CLUB HOTEL, GEELONG

8PM FREE

MIGUEL DE ROS

PALAIS HEPBURN, HEPBURN SPRINGS

6:30PM $15

MARK SEYMOUR AND THE UNDERTOW

THEATRE ROYAL, CASTLEMAINE

8PM SOLD OUT

THE JOE COCKER EXPERIENCE

ULUMBARRA

THEATRE, BENDIGO

7:30PM $69

VALHALLA BLACK & BLUES FESTIVAL

FT: Jungle Jim Smith, Kier Stevens, Trinity Jayne, Willie J & The 6v6’S, Jack Meredith, Stefanie Duzel, Son’s Of The Blues, Miss Lou’s Blues

VALHALLA TAPROOM, GEELONG

7–9 JUN

CASTLEMAINE

$47–$59

JAZZ FESTIVAL

FT: Tamara Murphy, Ade Ish, Shirazz, Vince Jones, Brooklyn ‘86, Esstee Big Band, Flying Home, Funk Junkies, Harry Coulson’s Blue Dogs and more

VARIOUS VENUES, CASTLEMAINE

7–9 JUN $15–$150

NATIONAL CELTIC FOLK FESTIVAL

FT: Megan Macdonald, Chloe Bryce, Calum Mcilroy, Dylan Carlos, John Mccartin, Austral, Bush Gothic, Claymore, Gusto Gusto, Shane Howard, Tim Scanlan And Mana Okubo, and more

VARIOUS VENUES, PORTARLINGTON

7–10 JUN $50–$550

WOODEND WINTER ARTS FESTIVAL

FT: Cello Octet, Paul Grabowsky, Paco Lara, Fiore Vocal Ensemble and more

VARIOUS VENUES, WOODEND

7–10 JUN PRICE PER EVENT

MORNINGTON

WINTER MUSIC FESTIVAL

FT: CC Goons (featuring members of Clowns), The Hoodoo Men, Nick Green, Jimmy Phoenix, Eve Ward (Album Launch), Down South Big Band and more

VARIOUS VENUES, MORNINGTON

7–10 JUN FREE & TICKETED

PHIL AND DENZIL PARA BELLARINE ESTATE, GEELONG

6:30PM FREE

SAT 8 JUN

THE JUNGLE GIANTS

+ SPECIAL GUESTS

TORQUAY HOTEL, TORQUAY

8.30PM SOLD OUT

MASKELL

LOVE BAND

PISTOL PETE’S FOOD N BLUES, GEELONG

9:30PM

BRITISH INDIA

+ HOLD/ FIRE

THE BARWON CLUB HOTEL, GEELONG

8PM

ZEP BOYS

PALAIS-HEPBURN, HEPBURN SPRINGS

$15

BILL BARBER & THE HOLDING CELL

BELLARINE ESTATE, GEELONG 6:30PM FREE

SUN 9 JUN

TWO TONES

PISTOL PETE’S FOOD N BLUES, GEELONG 3PM FREE

VIKA AND LINDA

GEELONG ARTS CENTRE, GEELONG 7PM $79

KIRSTY WEBECK

MOZART HALL, WARRNAMBOOL 5PM $25

SUNDAY ADELE TRIBUTE SHOW

PALAIS-HEPBURN, HEPBURN SPRINGS 1:30PM $30

THE MONARO & CLIFF PARADE THE BREAKWATER HOTEL, GEELONG 2PM $10

KINGS BIRTHDAY

EVE BLOCK PARTY

$44.90

7PM $55

JODI PHILLIS

+ DEAN STANTON

THE RED HILL HOTEL, CHEWTON

8PM $15

NAT BARTSCH

ARARAT TOWN HALL, ARARAT 8PM $40

LETTUCE FEST 3

FT: Mystery, The Shadow Ministers, Nasal Spray, Lettuce Prey, DDs, Riot After Midnight, Emily Carr, Sleeper Weed, Primitive Deserters THE EASTERN, BALLARAT 3PM $23.50

FT: Jaura King, William Kiss, Charlotte Delilah, Dan Dalton and more

THE INN HOTEL, GEELONG 5PM $15–$30

WED 12 JUN

LLOYD SPIEGEL

ARARAT TOWN HALL, ARARAT 8PM $35

FRI 14 JUN

PEZ

+ SPECIAL GUESTS LAMBYS TAVERN, GEELONG 8PM $44.65

SKEGSS

+ SPECIAL GUESTS

TORQUAY HOTEL, TORQUAY 8PM $61.20

THE BITTER VICS

+ THE HYPERNATORS, LUNATIC, WILLY LOPEZ

THE BARWON CLUB HOTEL, GEELONG

7PM $18.40

TRAVIS COLLINS

THE GATEWAY HOTEL, GEELONG

8:30PM $46.95

JEN CLOHER

+ ELIZA HULL

PALAIS-HEPBURN, HEPBURN SPRINGS

6:30PM $35

QUIVERS

MAJOR TOM’S, KYNETON

8:30PM $20

THE JOHNNIES

THE EASTERN, BALLARAT

7:30PM $23.50

AINE TYRRELL

NORTHERN ARTS HOTEL, CASTLEMAINE

7:30PM $28

BONNY DOON

+ JESS RIBEIRO

ANGLESEA MEMORIAL HALL, ANGLESEA

7PM $35

SAT 15 JUN

ART LATE X OK MOTELS: BANANAGUN

ART GALLERY OF BALLARAT, BALLARAT

6PM $50

RELAYS

+ THE MODS

SKKY BAR, SHEPPARTON

5:30PM $21.50

DICE

+ SPECIAL GUESTS

TORQUAY HOTEL, TORQUAY

8PM $45.90

SAMMY OWENS & LIAM KEALY

+ BURNING B3 TRIO

PISTOL PETE’S FOOD N BLUES, GEELONG

9:30PM SOLD OUT

WINKSY

+ GABRIEL DELICIOUS, THE BLOODY NORAHS

THE BARWON CLUB HOTEL, GEELONG

7:30PM $18.40

M79

THE BRIDGE HOTEL, CASTLEMAINE 9PM FREE

ANDY GOLLEDGE BAND

+ MIK A JAMES ANGLESEA MEMORIAL HALL, ANGLESEA

7PM $35

DEZ DARE

+ FUTURE TONGUES, AFFORDABLE REPAYMENTS

MEDUSA BAR, GEELONG

7PM $22.73

SYMPHONY OF SHADOWS

+ VICTORIA K, DIE IN A DREAM, MEZMIK, ANA AND AWAKEN THE HATE THE GOLDEN VINE HOTEL, BENDIGO

7PM $20

JACK JONES

+ TAYLOR SHERIDAN

PALAIS-HEPBURN, HEPBURN SPRINGS

7PM $35

WENDY RULE

ODESSA AT LEAVERS, CRESWICK

7:30PM $35

THE MAGGIE PILLS

+ THE STRIPP TRASH CULT, EAGLEHAWK 9PM $20

PEZ

+ SPECIAL GUESTS

VOLTA, BALLARAT

8PM $45.15

SUN 16 JUN

WENDY RULE

THE MONASTERY, GEELONG 5PM $15–$35

SKEGSS

+ SPECIAL GUESTS

VOLTA, BALLARAT 3PM $50.75

THU 20 JUN

SIX60

+ SPECIAL GUESTS

VOLTA, BALLARAT 7:30PM SOLD OUT

FRI 21 JUN

SIX60

+ SPECIAL GUESTS TORQUAY HOTEL, TORQUAY 8:30PM SOLD OUT

HALF LIGHT

PALAIS-HEPBURN, HEPBURN SPRINGS

6:30PM $25

ALAIN JOHANNES

MEDUSA BAR, GEELONG 7PM $57.71

CHOCOLATE STARFISH

LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE, WARRNAMBOOL 7:30PM $98

EMILY-ROSE

THE COOLROOM, NORTHERN ARTS HOTEL, CASTLEMAINE 7:30PM $22

SAT 22 JUN

THE PAPER KITES + SPECIAL GUESTS THE THEATRE ROYAL, CASTLEMAINE

7PM $74.90

LOUNGE LIZARDS

PISTOL PETE’S FOOD N BLUES, GEELONG

9:30PM $15

RESOUND FESTIVAL

FT: Lucy Lorenne, Wild Gloriosa, Hassall, Nathan Seeckts, Daisy Kilbourne, Emilia Fol, Parsnip, Loud N’ Deadly, Rach Brennan and more

VARIOUS VENUES, GEELONG

1:45PM FREE

THE MAGGIE PILLS + THE STRIPP THE BRIDGE HOTEL, CASTLEMAINE 9PM $20

DOG TRUMPET AND THE SNARSKICIRCUSLINDYBAND + SPECIAL GUESTS

VOLTA, BALLARAT

7:30PM $50.75

HALF LIGHT + RENNIE PEARSON THE OLD CHURCH ON THE HILL, BENDIGO 7:30PM $25

DON’T CHANGEULTIMATE INXS THE GATEWAY HOTEL, GEELONG

8:30PM $39

MARLON WILLIAMS

ANGLESEA MEMORIAL HALL, ANGLESEA 7PM $60–$70

ADE ISHA TRIO

THE COOLROOM, NORTHERN ARTS HOTEL, CASTLEMAINE

7:30PM $20

HOT ICE

BELLARINE ESTATE, GEELONG

6:30PM FREE

SUN 23 JUN

MARLON WILLIAMS

ANGLESEA MEMORIAL HALL, ANGLESEA

4:30PM $60–$70

ROSS WILSON

GEELONG ARTS CENTRE, GEELONG

4PM $79

FIVE FOR FIVE + DEDWAY, TOMOHUNG, IN THE ESKY, FORKLIFT ASSASSINS AND STOP ASKING THE BREAKWATER HOTEL, GEELONG

1:30PM $10

THU 27 JUN

ARC PRESENTS:

LED ZEPPELIN IV

ULUMBARRA

THEATRE, BENDIGO

8PM $91.70

FRI 28 JUN

RELAYS

+ SOFTWARE UPDATE, FUTURE CONSTELLATION

MEDUSA BAR, GEELONG

8PM $15.30

FAREWELL NEW ORLEANS + JULES BOULT & THE REDEEMERS

PISTOL PETE’S FOOD N BLUES, GEELONG

9:30PM $30

VOXNEON

THE BARWON CLUB HOTEL, GEELONG

8PM $35

SHERRI PARRY

PALAIS-HEPBURN, HEPBURN SPRINGS

6:30PM $15

SAT 29 JUN

JESS RIBEIRO

TANSWELL’S HOTEL, BEECHWORTH

9PM FREE

RELAYS + THE CHANS

BENDIGO RECORDS, BENDIGO

6:30PM $15.30

FAREWELL BLUES

FT: Maskell Love Band, Blue Sunday Blues Band, Andrea Robertson Band With Sarah Carroll, Wayne Jury And Eddy Boyle, Lounge Lizards

PISTOL PETE’S FOOD N BLUES, GEELONG

9:30PM SOLD OUT

BLONDEHOUSE + PARAQUAY, CARLY JORJA, APOLLO PROJECT

THE BARWON CLUB HOTEL, GEELONG

7PM

TOM SANTA

+ SPECIAL GUESTS

VOLTA, BALLARAT

$18.40

THE ANIMALS

ULUMBARRA THEATRE, BENDIGO

8PM $79.90

PETER AND THE WOLVES

NORTHERN ARTS HOTEL, CASTLEMAINE

7:30PM $22

AUSTIN MACKAY

THE EASTERN, BALLARAT 7PM $28.60

BONES AND JONES

THE BRIDGE HOTEL, CASTLEMAINE 7:30PM $20

COLIN HAY

GEELONG ARTS CENTRE, GEELONG 8PM $79.90–$99.90

VIKA AND LINDA CAPITAL THEATRE, BENDIGO 8PM $79

SUN 30 JUN

MELBOURNE YOUTH ORCHESTRA

ULUMBARRA THEATRE, BENDIGO 8PM $15–$25

AUSTIN MACKAY

GOLDEN VINE HOTEL, BENDIGO

2:30PM $20

WED 3 JUL

VACATIONS + SPECIAL GUESTS TORQUAY HOTEL, TORQUAY 8PM $39.99

THU 4 JUL

AUSTIN MACKAY + SPECIAL GUESTS THE BARWON CLUB HOTEL, GEELONG 7PM $28.60

FRI 5 JUL

KRIS MIZZI

PALAIS-HEPBURN, HEPBURN SPRINGS 6:30PM $15

HURRICANE: THE AUSTRALIAN LUKE COMBS COVER SHOW + SPECIAL GUESTS VOLTA, BALLARAT 8PM $34.95

SAT 6 JUL

JESS RIBEIRO + HANTU THE BRIDGE HOTEL, CASTLEMAINE 9PM

9PM $18.40

$29.10

SOUL DIVAS

PALAIS-HEPBURN, HEPBURN SPRINGS

7PM $40