One-on-ones and Industry Mixers with Arts North West and MusicNSW
Arts North West and MusicNSW recently went on a road trip to Moree and Gunnedah to connect with regional creatives! They hosted 1-on-1 advice sessions and Industry Mixers, providing an opportunity for artists across all art forms to meet, connect, and share their work.
Participants could book a 1-on-1 session with Arts North West Executive Director, Lauren Mackley, or MusicNSW Regional Coordinator, Nino Haggith, to discuss ideas, gain industry insights, or share current projects for guidance and support.
The trip also included an Industry networking event, open to artists from any discipline, to facilitate connections, idea-sharing, and collaboration, with refreshments provided.
The schedule included:
Thursday, 7 November, 2024 – Moree at the Social Co House (167 Balo Street, Moree, NSW 2400)
Friday, 8 November, 2024 – Gunnedah at Gunnedah Hotel (298 Conadilly Street, Gunnedah, NSW 2380), with the Industry Mixer held at The Civic Theatre (81 Chandos Street, Gunnedah) as part of the warm-up for a live music performance by Frente!
On Saturday, 9 November, 2024, MusicNSW and Arts North West also supported the Armidale Black Gully Music Festival, promoting the NENW leg of MusicNSW’s ‘Winding North Tour’ with regional artists Bella Frankie, Kirsty Larkin, and Ollie Twohill.
Bella Frankie comprises ARIA Award-winning artist Michael Turner, theater maker Ajita Cannings, cellist Natasha Kraemer (Australian Haydn Ensemble), and harmonica player Steve Gilbert (Shane Howard Band). Their work weaves stories of love, flood, community, and companionship.
Kirsty Larkin, based in Manilla, brings a soulful, dark-Americana style with hints of whimsy, drawing listeners into her heartfelt world. She has collaborated with Gareth Hudson (Hazy Cosmic Jive), Bill Chambers, and others.
Ollie Twohill writes songs of hope, love, loss, and resilience, influenced by Australian folk, 2000s pop punk, and Northern NSW’s thriving music scene. He has self-released nine singles and performed alongside artists like Budjerah and The Buckleys.
This road trip provided a unique opportunity to connect with leading arts organizations in NSW, offering a platform to discuss industry shifts, explore new pathways, and support regional creativity. Arts North West and MusicNSW are committed to fostering growth and collaborating to nurture creativity, inspire innovation, and expand collective creative horizons across the region.
2023 - One-on-one sessions and Industry Mixers with Arts North West Executive Director Lauren Mackley and MusicNSW Regional Manager Dave Burgener
Arts North West and MusicNSW successfully hit the road in 2023, engaging with communities across Armidale, Tamworth, and Tenterfield. This initiative provided a vibrant platform for creatives from various disciplines to connect, collaborate, and share ideas, fostering a stronger sense of community and innovation within the regional arts scene.
The Industry Mixers were a highlight, bringing together local artists, industry professionals, and live entertainment at iconic music venues in each location. These events offered a unique opportunity for participants to network, explore the local creative ecology, and spark new collaborations.
One-on-one sessions proved invaluable, enabling attendees to receive tailored advice, share their projects, and gain insights into the industry. These sessions, led by Arts North West Executive Director Lauren Mackley and MusicNSW Regional Manager Dave Burgener, were instrumental in providing practical guidance on project management, funding opportunities, marketing, and more. Feedback on grant applications also empowered participants to refine their proposals, increasing their chances of success.
The tour’s success was further amplified by the vibrant networking events, complete with live music, which underscored the rich talent and energy of the region. These gatherings not only celebrated creativity but also strengthened relationships between artists, venues, and industry professionals.
This road trip reinforced Arts North West and MusicNSW's commitment to supporting and growing regional arts and music, leaving a lasting impact on participants and fostering a thriving cultural community in Northern NSW.