Lake Macquarie musicians and live music venues are being encouraged to join a statewide initiative hoped to 'kick start the recovery of the live music industry' that has been devastated by the coronavirus pandemic.
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The NSW Government has partnered with the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) on Great Southern Nights which aims to bring 1000 coronavirus-safe gigs to venues across Sydney and regional NSW by November.
Catherine Cusack, the Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, called on artists and venues in the region register their interest to be involved.
"From Lake Macquarie up to Port Stephens, as well as Newcastle, Maitland and out into wine country, there are so many talented artists and unique venues throughout the Hunter that can register their interest to be part of this exciting new event," Ms Cusack said.
"It's a fantastic opportunity to showcase what makes the Hunter so special and revitalise our creative and hospitality industries after really challenging times."
Among the headline acts announced to perform as part of Great Southern Nights so far are Jimmy Barnes, Birds of Tokyo, Missy Higgins, Paul Kelly, The Jungle Giants, Thelma Plum, The Presets, Amy Shark, Tash Sultana, Tones and I and The Veronicas.
Industry research by Music NSW indicates that live music generates approximately $3.6 billion and 23,000 jobs for the NSW economy.
In addition to supporting the recovery of live music in NSW, the event is also aimed at helping the entertainment and hospitality industries.
Under the Great Southern Nights banner, established, emerging and local Australian artists will present 1000 gigs. To be staged across a 'multitude of venues around NSW', the gigs will be curated by ARIA and an industry advisory committee.
The event will culminate with the ARIA Awards in Sydney.
"We're proud to create this opportunity for Australian musicians, and help bring back the live music scene right across NSW," ARIA chief executive officer Dan Rosen said.
"Live music events bring visitors, culture and excitement to communities. This initiative will provide an invaluable boost for the artists, crew, venues and music community that make gigs happen."
All festival events will be programmed in line with current government health advice regarding physical distancing and venue capacity of public gatherings.
