Hi Fionna. You’re known for your role in making the annual Gold Sounds Music Conference happen. How did that come about?
I was working for Music Victoria on the Regional Music Development Program – a new project to support the regional music industry in the wake of covid.
The festival is now in its second year and you are director?
Yes. I secured a grant from Creative Victoria to run the conference again in 2022. It’s just me this year. I’m the director, marketing manager, and programmer! But I’ve received incredible support from talented people in the music industry and have another event planned on October 13-16.
I am working to bring city based and regionally based musicians and industry together as equals to share their experiences. It’s a pretty intimate event where people can take time to have conversations and connect. I really aim to demystify the industry and breakdown the barriers to enable regional artists to achieve success.
How did you find your way into the music and events industry?
I had a radio program on community radio when I was at uni in Lismore. I then moved to Sydney and got a job in a Record Store. I have had countless jobs over the years but I eventually landed a job with a record label in Melbourne. From here it was a natural progression. I organised events for the label. Then a couple of bands needed help on tour and I was sent away with them to assist with logistics and the rest is history.
I worked in London for a brief period and then moved to Wales where I started touring with bands. My career has now spanned over 25 years and has seen me have the opportunity to travel the world. I think 18 year old me (and actually 48 year old me) wouldn’t believe where my work has taken me and the people I’ve been fortunate to meet.
So how did you find yourself here in Castlemaine?
Having a child took me off the road. I worked on festivals and for the Arts Council and the BBC in Wales for a time. But I soon felt the pull back to Australia and wanted to raise my daughter Elin in the country. A sound engineer friend who lived in Castlemaine suggested I settle here. We’ve been here four years now!
What does your work these days entail?
When I first moved here I was fortunate to land a job straight away with the Castlemaine State Festival. I also worked with the Theatre Royal and MainFM.
More recently I have created my own business ‘Lady Adventurer: Creative Projects and Strategic Support’. I am letting the opportunities which are presented to me guide my work and see what direction it takes me in. I am currently doing some work on a few local projects, as well as Almost Summer Festival in Bendigo. I’m also working for Lot19 Arts Precinct. I love their passion and the annual talent contest Castlemaine Idyll is an event I’m grateful to have become involved in.
OK, any other community involvements in this part of the world?
Well I still present a radio program ‘One Crowded Hour’ on MainFm Monday nights at 5pm. My involvement in the station really opened up the community to me. During covid the ‘Kids Lockdown’ program I ran with Elin really helped to keep us connected with people – and kids connected with each other.
Any other particular interests keeping you busy Fionna?
Yes – I love road trips! And my daughter and I enjoy walks throughout the local region. We have the best neighbours in town. I love our little pocket of Wesley Hill.
OK, any philosophies by which you like to lead life?
Try not to always default to ‘No’! And – everyone and everywhere has a great story to tell. I’ve definitely discovered that. I love a little road trip and discovering new places. If I can throw in a music gig along the way that’s a bonus – or a great excuse.
Nice one! Three dream dinner guests?
This is a hard one. I change it every time I am asked this! I think Welsh opera singer Charlotte Church. I’ve been out with her – she is a lot of fun! Alan Rickman. There is just something about him. And Susan Sarandon – she is utterly brilliant.
Do you have any Pet Peeves?
People who stand too close to the baggage carousel at the airport! And people who stand in the middle of the escalator or moving carriageways (Laughs).
Musical genre of choice?
I can’t pick one! Whatever brings me joy or big feelings. If I can dance to it in the kitchen it’s a bonus. Nothing like a kitchen disco! Elin and I had a few during lockdown. As for what I am listening to at the moment it’s Jess Parker’s new album ‘Bread and Butter’ and Laura Jean’s ‘Amateurs’.
What are you reading at the moment?
I love reading, but I don’t do it as much as I should. Shame, as I used to work at a bookstore! I am reading Myf Warhurst’s biography ‘Time of My Life’ in preparation for her book launch at Gold Sounds and ‘How to Lose Friends and Influence White People’ by Australian journalist Antoinette Lattouf.
Just finally then Fionna, what do you enjoy most about the place you call home?
I love my neighbourhood and my neighbours. I love being able to walk along the Forest Creek track to Chewton and beyond. I also love swimming at the Rez!