A new group, backed by key players in the music industry, aims to attract more talent to the region and boost night-time business.
The Sunshine Coast Music Industry Collective (SCMIC) has been established, on the back of a $15 million injection to the local music sector.
Key players behind the group include Live Nation Australian general manager Damian Costin, Moshtix managing director Harley Evans, QMusic chief executive Kris Stewart, TV and radio presenter Ian “Dicko” Dickson and Darkwood Studios founder Uncle Kev Starkey.
Mr Costin said a $15 million boost during the pandemic, which included investments from the University of Sunshine Coast, NightQuarter and SolBar Group, was just the start.
“This investment is just the beginning with more than $15 billion in investment expected in the region in the coming years,” he said.
According to industry reporting, Australia’s live music sector has lost more than 90 per cent of its capital since 2020.
The sector normally provides $1.5 billion to the Australian economy each year.
SCMIC chairman Michael Shadforth said a night-time economy was essential in creating a sustainable region.
“The importance of this music economy cannot be understated,” he said.
“A healthy live music scene is the backbone of a thriving and safe night-time economy which is essential for a sustainable region.
“It acts as an anchor in retaining the talent we already have as well as the talent we are attracting to the Coast.”
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The University of Sunshine Coast has been commissioned to map the investment in the region’s night-time economy as part of the group’s formation.
SCMIC aims to connect stakeholders and produce an innovative and coordinated calendar of events on the Sunshine Coast, including a week-long festival and a music awards night.
The committee, formed in November, is the first of its kind in Queensland and it will also serve as an advocate to cut red tape and gain industry funding and grants.
Membership to the group will be available to all industry stakeholders.
