Community
5 November, 2023
Public platform for local bands
LOCAL band ‘Convict Class’ is hoping to light up the stage when it joins up to a dozen others at a special music festival in Warrnambool early next year.
Shane Stenhouse and his band have been working hard in recent months to ensure bands have a local platform where they can showcase their talents.
“After meeting with Music Victoria late last year, and holding follow-up discussions with local musicians, it was apparent there was a need for a dedicated venue or a festival to showcase the awesome local bands/performers we have in Warrnambool,” he said.
“We applied for grant funding through Warrnambool City Council and were lucky enough to secure $5,000 to help run a festival.”
Despite knowing there would still be a shortfall in funds to put on such an event, Shane and his team are determined to do all they can to ensure the Ignite! Festival will be a success.
“We’re always on the look out for event sponsors and would be thrilled to speak with anyone interested,” he said.
“We’re all about providing not just a platform for local bands to perform but to also provide a safe, entertaining and welcoming family environment for all to enjoy.”
The Ignite! Festival will be held at Warrnambool’s Civic Green on Saturday, February 3. Showcasing 12 local, original bands, this will be an all-age event which organisers hope will become an annual one.
“Who knows, this could be a great kick start for a career in music for some of our local bands and musicians,” Shane said.
“Our main aim is to deliver an event of mixed music styles, all ages, genders and abilities that caters for everyone’s tastes.” Ignite! will be a no-alcohol event and organisers will be encouraging people to support local businesses for food, drink and other needs throughout the festival.
“Music has no barriers and we will ensure that no demographic is left out, whether that be on the stage or in the crowd,” Shane said.
“We embrace all cultures and our focus is to encourage anyone who has a passion for music to perform and attend.”
Anyone wanting more information on the festival can contact Shane Stenhouse at ignitemusicfestival2024@gmail.com.
