MusicNSW has announced one of the most significant regional music development efforts ever undertaken in NSW, with the appointment of seven Regional Music Officers (RMOs) across the state.
These local music champions are brokers within their regions on behalf of MusicNSW. Already embedded in their communities, they will focus on building capacity and relationships between local industry, artists and councils.
After a successful pilot that began in the state’s south in 2019, the program now extends up through the Central West, Mid North Coast, North West and Northern Rivers regions, significantly expanding the organisation’s reach across the state.
By employing people already living and working in the regions, MusicNSW is uniquely positioned to identify areas of local industry that need attention, and leverage local knowledge to develop and deliver relevant support.
This latest expansion would not be possible without the investment and support of Create NSW, and it serves as an acknowledgement of both the critical importance of music to regional communities and economies, and of regional music to the broader music ecosystem.
MusicNSW’s Managing Director Emily Collins states:
“Regional NSW is brimming with world-class talent and opportunities for industry growth. We’re thrilled to be able to employ local experts to help drive the development of their regional communities, and highlight the exceptional work already being done. It’s an exciting time for music in NSW”
If you make or work in music and you live in one of the following regions, join the facebook group, say g’day to your RMO, and stay up to date with everything going on:
Regional Music Officers:
- North West: Sarah Leete
Armidale, Tamworth & surrounds – join FB group here - Northern Rivers: Niño Haggith
Lismore, Byron Bay, Tweed Heads & surrounds – join FB group here - Mid North Coast: Ali Buckley
Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Bellingen & surrounds – join FB group here - Southern Tablelands: Michael Simic
Queanbeyan, Goulburn, Bowral & surrounds – join FB group here - Central West: Patrick Coomey
Bathurst, Orange & surrounds – join FB group here - Eastern Riverina/Albury: Phoebe Pinnock
Albury, Wagga Wagga, Snowy Valleys & surrounds – join FB group here - South East: Sats Kramer
Bega, Moruya, Snowy Monaro & surrounds – join FB group here
Image above: RH Photography & Design