Deakin, agent ‘reach agreement’

ERIN PEARSON
Top Australian artists will continue performing on Geelong’s waterfront after a booking agent reached an agreement with Deakin University.
Acorn Productions’ Michael Ward was “very pleased” Deakin saved his business when it agreed to change the booking policy for its Waterfront Cafe.
The Independent reported last month that Mr Ward was set to cancel future concerts because Deakin refused to allow bookings 12 months ahead.
Mr Ward said the university had reversed its decision to make the cafe “pretty well available” to him.
“We’re so fortunate to be able to use a place like the Waterfront Cafe, so I’m happy to see it continue.”
Mr Ward said the new agreement had allowed him to book top-line acts such as Rose Tattoo and Mental as Anything, which required booking notice of six to 12 months.
“I’ve can now locked these shows in due to this agreement.”
Deakin University confirmed the new agreement, saying it represented a “better understanding on both sides”.