TWO entertainment venues on the Mornington Peninsula have received grants as part of the federal government’s $2.5 million Live Music Australia Program.
The Pig and Whistle Tavern at Main Ridge will get $58,925 to host live Australian music gigs and workshops in The Shed Theatre.
Westernport Yacht Club will get $30,390 for modifications to the venue, and equipment upgrades to support, establish, and promote COVID-normal live original music.
Flinders MP Greg Hunt said the money would “reinvigorate the local music scene as vaccination rates continue to increase and state government restrictions ease”.
“This funding is vital to not only boost our economy, but to ensure these venues can once again provide communities with the social settings we’ve all missed,” Mr Hunt said.
The Pig and Whistle’s James McPherson said the money would help the venue to engage with not only local artists but create touring opportunities for performers from other areas.
“The peninsula has an abundance of talented entertainment professionals: performers, writers, designers and production crew,” he said.
“This grant will help us encourage artists and provide a professional space to allow them to embrace the future, re-discover their purpose and work their way back into the industry.”
Westernport Yacht Club vice commodore Adam Smith said the club had provided a base for the peninsula’s music scene for 20 years.
“COVID-19 put that on hold, but this grant will enable us to bring original Australian music back to our passionate community.
“Now for the first time we will also be able to live stream gigs to reach a much broader audience who, for various reasons, aren’t able to attend on the night.”
Modifications to the yacht club will allow it to maximise attendance while adhering to social-distancing, better utilise balcony space and maximise the flow of fresh air.
“Improved acoustics and lighting will enhance the artist experience and improve the experience for audiences away from the stage,” Mr Smith said. “Most importantly, we will once again provide a stage for the best musical acts from the peninsula and further afield.”
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 26 October 2021
