Matt Hewson
The Barwon Club will host a showcase of the Bellarine’s best up and coming musical talent at an all-ages show.
Bellarine On the Rise will feature a bevy of young homegrown musicians who have developed and perform regularly around the region.
An initiative of well-known Ocean Grove musician Andrea Robertson, the event is supported by the City of Greater Geelong through its Community Grants program and sponsored by Geelong Japanese restaurant chain Hi Sushi.
Robertson said the event was all about providing an opportunity to the next generation of local musicians.
“As a working musician myself, looking at a lot of the younger crew and seeing the state of the current music industry, this is about trying to provide another opportunity for them, to showcase the talent from our region,” she said.
“(All these musicians) are actively pursuing music, so this is a chance for them to network with each other and try to keep some momentum going, because it’s not an easy time to land gigs.”
Bellarine On the Rise will be headlined by Wallington-based alt rockers Bones & Jones, who performed at South by Southwest Festival in Austin, Texas in March and completed a national tour in April.
Joining Bones & Jones are indie quartet Brunette Red Dress, punk-rock singer/songwriter Carly Jorja, blues-rocker Heath Robertson and vibey power-pop band Paraquay.
Bones & Jones bassist Bailey Bates said trying to break into the music industry while based on the Bellarine provided both advantages and challenges to young musicians.
“Everyone (in the local music scene) is really close and supportive of each other, which you don’t often get living in the big cities,” he said.
“So there’s lots more support, shows like this, which purposefully spotlight up-and-coming bands rather than just being another show. Also there’s a lot more space to be able to clear your mind and be creative.
“But in terms of getting into the industry, it can be quite tricky. It’s not that far from Melbourne, but when you’re a young band it’s kind of secluded. We were lucky to have good people around us, friends that were able to help us get shows up in Melbourne and all that kind of thing.”
All-ages event Bellarine On the Rise is at the Barwon Club from 2pm to 8pm on Sunday, August 4.
