East Gippsland Shire Council is calling all young musicians and budding event developers across the shire to get ready to rock, rap, learn and lead, because the East Gippsland Battle of the Bands 2023 is taking expressions of interest from music makers and people who want to help make the music happen.

This exciting event, to be held in the second half of the year, is open to everyone in East Gippsland aged 12 to 25 who wants to further their skills in music performance or planning and event management – all while having fun.

This year's Battle of the Bands promises to bring the community together and showcase the region's upcoming artists. Young performers and crew members will get the chance to connect with other young people and local businesses, make new friends and discover new opportunities.

Mayor Mark Reeves emphasised the career pathways available to young people through this program.

“Thanks to Council and the Victorian Government's FreeZA program, the East Gippsland Battle of the Bands is not just about making music, it’s also about developing skills in areas such as performance, production and event management that can lead to job opportunities,” Cr Reeves said.

“It's not just about the music; it's about developing skills that can lead to exciting career pathways,” he said.

The East Gippsland Battle of the Bands has teamed up with local organisations, including Neighbourhood House, GippSport, Department of Education and Training Victoria, schools, music industry professionals and Aboriginal organisations, to ensure the event is a success.

Young people who are ready to rock the stage or help plan and deliver the event are asked to register their expression of interest today at www.surveymonkey.com/r/BATTLE23.

For more information, contact Council’s Youth Project Support Officer on 5153 9500.

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