MEET THE SPEAKERS

ADAM NOVIELLO (ARTIST)

Named by Triple J as 1 of ‘10 Queer Artists To Discover Before They Blow Up’, Adam Noviello is an AIR Award nominated non-binary pop diva sensation on the rise. 

Their debut single, HERETIC, wowed audiences near and far by hitting #1 on the Australian iTunes Dance Chart in 2022. The track featured on the Triple J Unearthed Pride Playlist, and also hit #5 on the Australian Independent Record Labels Association singles chart.

Since their debut, Adam has played on stages both in their home country of Australia and beyond! 2023 saw them tour the UK performing at multiple venues across Edinburgh and London including The Crazy Coqs in London’s West End. 2023 also saw Adam embark on THE FUMBLING TOUR, playing shows in Melbourne, Sydney & Brisbane, with FUMBLING also featuring on the Triple J Unearthed Mardi Gras Mix 2024.

Adam has graced the cover of A Modern Gay’s Guide magazine and featured in Vogue Australia, DNA Magazine, Scenstr, Lost In The Nordics, KALTBLUT, Buzz Music, Metal Magazine, QNews, Darkus Magazine and more.

ADAM WRIGHT (MERLIN)

ALASTAIR BURNS (HEARTSTOP MUSIC)

Alastair Burns is the Director of Heartstop Music, a Melbourne based artist management company that currently represents Marlon Williams and Folk Bitch Trio, and has previously managed the careers of Julia Jacklin, The Weather Station, Phantastic Ferniture and Merk.
Burns began his career promoting shows, and releasing local singer/songwriter compilations while studying law at the University of Otago, funding these endeavours by performing popular songs at the university bars.
Moving to Melbourne in 2009, he founded BalconyTV Melbourne and The Melbourne Folk Club, and gradually shifted focus to artist management, setting up Heartstop Music in 2012 as a boutique company that focuses on building long term, global touring and recording careers.

ANNABELLE HERD (ARIA, PPCA)

Annabelle is the CEO of ARIA and PPCA. She came to the music industry in February 2021 following a 16-year career in television at Network 10 where she most recently held the role of Chief Operating Officer looking after a range of functions including operations, corporate and government affairs, and strategy. Prior to Network 10, she spent several years working in government including four years in senior political roles for then Minister for Communications and the Arts, Senator the Hon. Richard Alston AO. Annabelle was a Council Member of the Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS) from 2018-2023 and was previously a board member of Save the Children Australia, Freeview Australia, and Free TV Australia. In 2019 Annabelle was invited to participate in the McKinsey Remarkable Women Program. Annabelle has a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts (Asian Studies) from the Australian National University. 

ANDREW STONE (CHUGG MUSIC)

Andrew Stone is co-founder and CEO of Chugg Music, an award winning management company, record label and music publishing organisation. Alongside Michael Chugg, he is the manager for Australian artists, Lime Cordiale, Sheppard, Teenage Dads, Mia Rodriguez, Mason Watts, and Casey Barnes. Andrew is also head and co-founder of City Pop Records. Chugg Music artists have received multiple #1 album and #1 single certifications, as well as Gold and Platinum sales in over 25 countries. Andrew is a current AIR Board member and executive member of the Association of Artist Managers.

ASH HILLS (UNIFIED)

Ash Hills is the General Manager of UNIFIED Artist Management AU/NZ at UNIFIED Music Group and is on the leadership team at UNIFIED Music Group. 
UNIFIED Artist Management (UAM) is a team of 18 split across our Melbourne, Sydney and North American offices. Together the division manages the likes of Vance Joy, The Amity Affliction and Ocean Alley. Ash personally manages Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers and Dan Sultan and is a current serving board member of The AAM.

ASH KING (SUPPORT ACT)

Dr Ash King is a psychologist, writer/designer and the Wellbeing Content & Programs Lead with Support Act. After her life in the music industry came to a halt following a vocal injury, she’s now using psychology & mindfulness to help folks live their best lives with creativity, passion and purpose. She has worked across a range of creative fields, including film & tv, live music, visual arts and radio. She believes that learning to manage the mind can be a fun and inquisitive process.

BEN DENNIS (MUSHROOM GROUP)

Ben Dennis is the Strategy & Partnerships Manager at Mushroom Group, where he oversees external client relationships and guides strategic initiatives across the group. Ben has a focus on delivering campaigns for clients of Mushroom Creative House and works alongside the newly launched Mushroom Connect’s roster of artists, representing them for brand partnerships. With over 15 years of experience in the music industry, Ben brings expertise in brand partnerships, strategic consulting for corporate clients, artist management, and event curation to the group.
Prior to Mushroom group Ben was the Owner and Director of Myriad Management, a leading firm he founded in 2013 renowned for its management of Australian artists such as ARIA Award-winning duo Peking Duk and house producer Benson. His expertise extends to consulting for major companies like Sony Music Australia, the Australian Open, Nando’s & more – guiding branding and partnerships while respecting artist integrity and intellectual property rights. 
Ben’s career highlights include independently promoting Peking Duk’s national tours with record-breaking ticket sales and orchestrating large scale campaigns and events with multinational brands in the music sector.  Ben maintains a connection to the local community continuing to DJ at beloved hotspots and performing at festivals like Splendour in the Grass, Meredith & Beyond The Valley. 
Beyond curating dance-floors across Melbourne and beyond, Ben fills his time visiting Melbourne’s multicultural offerings to fuel his enthusiasm for cooking and documenting discoveries on his blog @Soupfluencer… if you have a favourite soup, be sure to let him know!

BLAKE RAYNER (THE ORCHARD)

Blake Rayner is the General Manager of the Australian & New Zealand team at The Orchard, a full-service music distribution company operating in more than 45 cities worldwide. Blake has 20 years of experience in domestic and international marketing strategy, music business development, artist management, A&R and touring. 

BLOSSOM ROT RECORDS

Blossom Rot Records is a record label and creative collective run by Nathalie Pavlovic and Sophie McComish, operating out of Dharawal and Wurundjeri lands. Bringing together over a decade of experience in PR, bookings, management and record label operations, as well as active musicians in their own right (Nat: Dianas, Jen Cloher, Snowy Band; Soph: Body Type) Nat and Soph founded BRR as a means of challenging outdated industry norms and bringing the process of releasing music back to its roots.
Launched at the beginning of 2020, BRR’s current roster covers a broad range of artists across post punk, indie, electronic and folk genres. 2024 releases so far include Bad Bangs, The Vovos, Snowy Band, Sunny Morris and Jacob Diamond.

BONNIE KNIGHT (PRODUCER)

Sound engineer and producer Bonnie Knight is one of the most innovative up-and-coming forces in Australian music, working behind the scenes on some of the country’s best independent music releases. Most recently, they lent their engineering gifts to the acclaimed, 6 x ARIA nominated and 2 x ARIA Award winning Amyl and the Sniffers, with their new album Comfort To Me.
Bonnie gravitated towards production and engineering early on. They grew up in a musical household surrounded by home recording equipment, and played in bands as a teenager and throughout their early 20s. After high school, they studied sound production, discovering a passion for the intricacies of recording and producing. During this period, they began to mix live shows. Since then, Bonnie has travelled the globe as a FOH and Monitors engineer for a range of revered artists including Amyl & The Sniffers, Divide & Dissolve, Good Morning, Julia Jacklin, Mallrat, MAY-A, Sampa the Great, Stella Donnelly and Thelma Plum, among others. They worked alongside Francois Tetaz as Assistant Music Director for the live music performances at the 2023 APRA Music Awards.
Bonnie was a participant at the Courtney Barnett curated APRA-AMCOS Songhubs where they acted as a producer for the week long songwriting camp. They were one of the inaugural recipients of the APRA-AMCOS-backed 4000 Talents residency, which saw Bonnie take up residence at the Brisbane/Meanjin-based studio and receive mentorship for a month. This accolade is just the start of what poses to be an exciting and prolific period of music production for Bonnie Knight.

CAM PRICE (XELON)

Cam Price is Senior Manager, Marketing at Xelon Digital. He previously spent seven years at Sony Music Australia where he serviced triple j and led the Digital Marketing team across the roster of local, international and legacy artists.
He started a digital marketing and promo business in 2016 working in and outside of music with clients including Wonderlick, Sweat It Out/Central Station Records, Sony Music and Universal Music. Prior to it being sold he was Director of Community and Talent at Mumbrella award-winning start-up PlayersVoice working on content strategy with Sam Kerr, Nick Kyrgios and Pat Cummins among other athletes.

CATHERINE HARIDY (CATHERINE HARIDY MANAGEMENT)

Cath has worked with for some of Australia’s most successful artists in Artist management and in record labels.
In 2021 she stepped into the role of CEO at the Australian Music Centre in parallel with her Artist and Producer management roster which includes Jebediah, Frente and Anna Laverty.
She has actively advocated for managers and their artists as the Executive Director of the Association of Artist Managers (AAM), is a former Chairperson of the organisation as well as a current Board Member. She’s also a founding Director of the Music Producers and Engineers Guild (MPEG).
Cath is a past Board member of Music Victoria and Support Act, as well as the Community Broadcasting Foundation.

CHELSEA WILSON (ARTIST, HOUSE OF VALERIE JOAN)

Chelsea Wilson is a Melbourne-based vocalist, songwriter, broadcaster, DJ and producer, and manages boutique label and consultancy House of Valerie Joan. An acclaimed live performer, she has graced stages at Glastonbury Festival UK, London Jazz Cafe, Byron Bay Bluesfest, Bizz ‘Art Paris and Melbourne Recital Centre. Her disco-inspired album “Chasing Gold” was nominated for the Australian Music Prize. As a broadcaster she has produced programs for ABC Radio, Mi-Soul UK, RRR FM and PBS FM. As an Artistic Director has led festivals such as Stonnington Jazz, Brunswick Music Festival and Melbourne International Jazz Festival Congress. An advocate for the music industry, she served as a Board Director for Music Victoria for five years. Current projects include management of the Women of Soul Collective, and producing the  ‘Control’ podcast. She was nominated for the Creative Leadership Award at the Australian Women in Music Awards 2023. 

CHRIS COWBURN (GRAPHIC DESIGNER)

Chris Cowburn is a graphic designer and artist based in Naarm / Melbourne. He works as a freelance creative within the music and fashion industries; as well as creating personal work and commissioned projects.
Chris has experience in visual identity, creative direction, typography, branding, motion design, print packaging, digital content, and occasionally tries his hand at videography. His collaborators and clients include: Emma Donovan, Laura Jane Grace, Violent Soho, Luca Brasi, Ceres, Private Function, IOHYOU, Cooking Vinyl Australia, The Zoo, The Bergy Bandroom, The Last Chance Rock n Roll Bar, plus fashion labels Ksubi and M/SF/T.

CHRIS O’NEILL (APRA AMCOS)

Artist, advocate and industry stalwart Chris O’Neill has been committed to music for more than a decade. While he graduated from QUT with a Bachelor of Music, it’s been his work on and off the stage that has built his profile and reputation.
Chris makes a daily contribution to supporting songwriters through his role at APRA AMCOS as Director – Creative Programs & Stakeholder Engagement, where he oversees the National bespoke programs for members, and engages with industry organisations around the country. Chris also serves as Chair at Music Victoria, and as a board director at the Australian Music Centre.
An acclaimed drummer, Chris has written and performed with artists from just about every genre, made numerous records, and performed on stages around the country including major festivals such as Prima Vera, Splendour in the Grass and Big Day Out.

DAVE BATTY (CUSTOM MADE ARTIST REPRESENTATION)

Over more than two decades, Dave Batty has established himself as one of Australia’s most experienced and well-regarded artist managers.
As Director and founder of Custom-Made Artist Representation, Batty is responsible for guiding the careers of Bud Rokesky, CIVIC, producer/writer Oscar Dawson, Slowly Slowly and ARIA-winners and gold selling Sarah Blasko and The Jezabels, both locally and internationally.
The diversity of Batty’s roster speaks of a manager with an aptitude for working in whatever context and model best suits each artist. He has done deals directly in each territory and worldwide deals with a label group, based on artist’s needs.

DAVID BRIDIE (WANTOK MUSIK FOUNDATION)

David Bridie enjoys a distinguished career as a songwriter, composer & producer.
A founding member and songwriter of critically acclaimed musical groups Not Drowning Waving and My Friend The Chocolate Cake, Bridie has also released six solo albums.
As a producer Bridie has worked with Christine Anu, Archie Roach, Frank Yamma, Emily Wurramara, George Telek and many others.
In addition to his seven ARIA awards, he was recognised with the prestigious The Australia Council Don Banks Award in 2019, acknowledging his three decades of commitment to his craft and his community.
In 2004 David established Wantok Music, a not for profit music enterprise that supports the development & promotion of the unique music made by artists from Australia & The Pacific. 
Wantok’s catalogue of over 60 releases includes work from Frank Yamma, Emily Wurramara, Kutcha Edwards, George Telek, Ngaiire, Airileke, Radical Son, Maubere Timor, Black Rock Band, Tio and many more.

DEAN ORMSTON (APRA AMCOS)

Dean Ormston is the Chief Executive of APRA AMCOS, Australia and New Zealand’s largest music industry organisation with over 115,000 members who are songwriters, composers and music publishers. Dean has worked with APRA AMCOS for over 20 years and across all key areas of the organisation. He has lead advocacy with Federal and State Governments for the recognition and support of creators’ rights and the potential of the local music industry as a key economic and cultural asset that drives exports and educational outcomes across the country. Under Dean’s leadership, the business set a record net distributable revenue result exceeding the half-billion mark for the first time. Dean coordinated and lead cross-sector advocacy relating to COVID-19, the economic contribution of the Australian music industry, the establishment of Music Australia, local content, the potential of tax-
offsets in rebuilding a sustainable live music sector, the moon-shot opportunity for Australia to become a net-exporter of music, and most recently the opportunity and threat of AI to creative industries. Dean and APRA AMCOS continue to be a leading voice in industry discussions addressing gender equity, safety, diversity and inclusion in the Australian contemporary music industry.

DONA INTHAXOUM (META)

Dona Inthaxoum is the Head of International Music Label Partnerships at Meta. She leads the team responsible for developing and managing relations with the music labels in the APAC and EMEA regions. She led Meta’s music products launches in Asia, and works closely with labels on how to take advantage of Meta’s audio features for their artists and releases.  

Dona has 16 years of experience in the music industry in APAC. She previously worked with the French Music Export Office (bureau export) in Tokyo, global streaming service Deezer as their Director of Label Relations APAC, and MTV Asia as their Director of Talent and Music. 

DYLAN PELLETT (IMNZ, NZ)

IMNZ is the trade association for New Zealand independent labels and a member of WIN, the Worldwide Independent Network. IMNZ produces the annual Taite Music Prize and the Going Global NZ conference. IMNZ has proudly provided assistance and music services to its members for 21 years.
Dylan Pellett has worked across the New Zealand music industry for the last 28 years, in touring, music synchronisation, creative execution, the independent NZ labels Flying Nun Records / Festival Mushroom Records and now over a decade at Independent Music NZ. In this role, Dylan has been responsible for attending and speaking at international conferences held in various countries (Canada, UK, Brazil, Australia, Chile, France, China, USA and Japan) in order to represent the independent NZ music sector and maintain our creative visibility abroad. Dylan currently serves on the WIN Board, as ROW Observer.

EDEN SHER (BLAK LABEL MUSIC)

Determined to make up for his corporate start in law and management consulting, it took a good friend to finally convince Eden to follow his passion for music by joining legendary community radio station 4ZZZ in Meanjin.
After a couple years, Eden escaped the grind to start a Community-focused event management business providing diverse musicians with an opportunity to play for sold-out crowds in safe and welcoming environments. It was through this expanding Community of support, learning and representation that Eden met the Blak Label Music team, which he joined soon after.
Since then, Eden has been fortunate enough to work with the Blak Label team to continue following his passion for identifying, developing, and assisting emerging creatives while being a supporting force for advocacy and change.

ELLIE RUMBOLD (PARTISAN RECORDS, GER)

Ellie began her music career at the age of 18 at the iconic Mute Records as part of the UK music industry apprenticeship scheme. From there, she quickly rose through the ranks of the label’s marketing, production and A&R departments to work on and contribute to the album campaigns of internationally renowned artists like Goldfrapp, Erasure, New Order, Arca, Yann Tiersen and more.
In 2017, Ellie moved to Partisan Records to take up the role of Product Manager, running campaigns in the UK and Europe for IDLES, Fontaines D.C., PJ Harvey, Laura Marling, Ezra Collective, and Beth Orton, amongst others. Ellie counts two UK #1 album campaigns and a Mercury Music Prize win in 2023 among her successes.
Having recently completed her MBA in Berlin, Ellie is now the Director of International at Partisan Records, overseeing the label’s operations, business development, network and marketing campaigns ex. UK and North America.

EMMA BOSWORTH (GREEN MUSIC AUSTRALIA)

Emma is an accomplished Queensland singer-songwriter and an integral team member for Green Music Australia. Emma works closely with the Australian music industry across all sectors, to bring awareness to the environmental impact of our sector through one of GMA’s core programs, the Green Action Program. Supported by Creative Australia, NSW EPA and more, the program  is in its third year and has included participants Corner Hotel Group, ABC Music, Live Nation, Oxford Art Factory, MusicNSW and much more. Emma also developed AMIDESI in partnership with technical partners, iSystain, an Australian music industry wide tool to track its environmental and social impact. Emma is also the founder of songwriting retreat, Wild Mountains Songs, a project that reconnects established mid-career artists to nature to create new works. The project supports high calibre songwriters to find a sense of renewal and new-found purpose around their art form, while providing the writers with deep new connections with their peers.

EMMA MCGARRY (FUTURE CLASSIC)

Emma McGarry is a passionate music lover with over 8 years experience in the music industry, working across marketing, project and product management, A&R and events. Specialising in marketing for recordings, she enjoys working collaboratively to execute effective and engaging campaigns for artists and releases. As Senior Product Manager at Future Classic since January 2022, Emma has led campaigns for Australian artists like G Flip, Hayden James, Sycco, Willo, Flume, Flight Facilities and more. Emma is passionate about supporting artists as they navigate the Australian & global music landscape.

EMMY FELDMAN (OTM, US)

Emmy began officially working in music when she was hired to help open the Brooklyn outpost of Rough Trade Record Shops, where she worked as Merchandising Manager and behind the counter. Running a blog and tape label simultaneously, she worked to bring local indie records into the shop and organized two CMJ showcases there. She then spent 7 years as an A&R at Atlantic Records and Canvasback Music in NYC, before moving to LA in 2019 to lead the A&R team at Heavy Duty. In July 2024, Emmy accepted the role as Head of US A&R at OTM. Her roster includes Dot Da Genius, Metronomy, Sub Focus, Honne, Still Woozy, Sudan Archives, and Hemlocke Springs.

FIONA MCAULIFFE (ABC MUSIC)

Fiona has worked in various roles across the Australian music industry; including record label, marketing agencies and in events. Her current role is Label Manager at ABC Music, looking after the alternative/indie and adult contemporary roster, alongside triple j releases. Fiona previously held roles in digital sales, marketing and strategy at ABC Music. In that time she has worked with a broad array of artists including, Emily Wurramara, Dami Im, The Wiggles, William Crighton, Kate Ceberano, Lee Kernaghan and more. Fiona leads ABC Music’s sustainability initiatives, including the label’s involvement in the Green Action Program, and is also actively participating in Green Music Australia’s Music Product Stewardship Alliance.

GENNA ALEXOPOULOS (SUPER DUPER)

Genna Alexopoulos (she/her) is the founder of Super Duper, a Naarm/Melbourne-based music publicity and consulting firm.
She leads and has led PR strategy for artists including Alex the Astronaut, Angie McMahon, Camp Cope, ENOLA, Jaguar Jonze, Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, and programs with Sydney Opera House, Live Nation, National Geographic, Zoos Victoria and many others.
She mentors young people in the music industry through the Australian Independent Record Labels Association’s (AIR) Women In Music program and as a Workshop Facilitator with The Push, is a member of the Association of Artist Managers (AAM), and was the inaugural winner of the Independent Publicity Team of the Year Award at the 2023 AIR Awards.

GEORGIA MOONEY (ARTIST)

ARIA-winner Georgia Mooney makes music fit for stargazing. Known from the beloved folk band, All Our Exes Live in Texas, she has toured extensively, sharing stages with acts like the Backstreet Boys, Nathaniel Rateliff, and Midnight Oil.
The release of Mooney’s debut solo album, Full of Moon, marks the emergence of a major talent. Co-produced with Grammy-winner Noah Georgeson (Joanna Newsom, Cate Le Bon, Marlon Williams), the album is an ornately melodic, folk/dream-pop universe, carried by Mooney’s soaring ethereal vocals over lush, cinematic soundscapes.
Nominated for two AIR Awards, described by The Australian as “nothing short of a triumph.. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2”, and dripping in critical acclaim worldwide, Full of Moon has seen Mooney sign with renowned Canadian label Nettwerk, embark on a 50-date Australian tour with Kate Miller-Heidke, open for Martha Wainwright at Sydney City Recital Hall, tour the UK and Ireland, curate and host a sold-out variety show series with comedian Rhys Nicholson for Vivid Sydney, and much more.
Her music is intricate, handcrafted, and richly melodic. Add to that ribald stage banter engendering frequent comparisons to Phoebe Waller-Bridge, and it’s no wonder Georgia is captivating audiences everywhere.

GLENN DICKIE (SOUNDS AUSTRALIA)

Glenn Dickie is the Export Music Producer for SOUNDS AUSTRALIA. Responsible for representation at key international music markets and events throughout the world, including; CMA Fest, Folk Alliance International, SXSW, Americanafest and SummerStage (USA), The Great Escape (UK), Jazzahead, Classical:NEXT and Reeperbahn Festival (Germany), has hosted Trade Missions into India, Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Brazil, as well as exploring new market events in Asia such as MU:CON and Zandari in Korea and Music Matters in Singapore.
Glenn’s label background is in A&R, Marketing and Publicity and spent 12 years on air RRR FM and was a touring drummer and DJ.

GUY BLACKMAN (CHAPTER MUSIC)

Guy Blackman is one of the two driving forces behind Chapter Music, one of Australia’s longest-
running independent record labels, which he began in 1992 at the age of 17.
Chapter has a catalogue of over 200 releases from artists such as Yirinda, Laura Jean, Gregor, Sweet Whirl, NO ZU, The Goon Sax, Twerps, Dick Diver and many more. Tone Deaf have called Chapter “almost unequivocally the most treasured record label in Australia”, while Rolling Stone called us “one of Australia’s most enduring and popular independent labels.”
Pitchfork ran a feature on Chapter in 2018 entitled “Where to Start With Chapter Music, the Australian Label Behind 25 Years of Great Indie Pop,” saying the “label boasts a rich discography that is often gentle but rarely weak.” Chapter’s mission statement is to bring great Australian artists to international attention. A queer-run label, Chapter is committed to being queer, female and people of colour friendly. Chapter won Best Independent Label at the AIR Awards in 2023 and 2019.
Guy has also maintained his own musical presence as a solo artist. He has shared stages with artists such as Joanna Newsom, Bill Callahan, Vashti Bunyan, John Grant, Owen Pallett, Jens Lekman and The Chills.

HAYDEN SOMERVILLE (DIRECTOR)

Hayden Somerville is a writer-director based in Melbourne, Australia. His work wades through a world of absurdism and dark comedy, always searching for humour in tragedy. A background in music led Somerville to music videos, where he first experimented with film. Having worked with acts such as Mildlife, The Murlocs, No Zu and RVG, he’s developed a tone that blurs the distinction between realism and illusion. Somerville has recently completed his first narrative short, Book Club.

HEATH BRADBY (FIDELTY CORP)

Heath Bradby is a band manager with 30 years experience in the music industry. He has worked as a manager, major label A&R, head of an indie label, DJ, booking agent and promoter. His company Fidelity represents a unique range of artists who have Gold, Platinum and Number 1 records to their name, as well as a fierce commitment to both touring and the constant search for better art. Globally sustainable careers and international touring are a key focus of Fidelity, who have over the years co-ordinated tours and releases throughout the Americas, Europe, Russia, China, Africa and India – including many repeat visits.
The Fidelity team currently manages the careers of  Thelma Plum, Karnivool, West Thebarton, Molly Millington, Trophy Eyes, Greta Stanley and Bronson Diamond. 
Heath thinks people spend way to much time thinking about the music industry and not enough time thinking about music.www.fidelitycorp.com.au

HENRY COMPTON (FUGA, A DOWNTOWN COMPANY)

With an accomplished career spanning over 20 years across business development, marketing, artist and project management alongside client relations, Compton’s vast experience and understanding of both the global music industry and regional APAC markets has seen him solidify a reputation as a trusted voice within the independent music landscape.
In 2013, Compton took on the role of Client & Retail Marketing Director, Australia & New Zealand for The Orchard, becoming the first direct report for the company in the region. Compton was quickly promoted to Director for Australia & New Zealand where he oversaw all aspects of the local business and substantially grew the shared market revenues.Compton also oversaw the pre and post transition of the company’s full acquisition by Sony Music Entertainment; later focussing on business development, client acquisition and retention as Director of Sales & Operations.
Compton also served as a Director on the board of the Australian Independent Record Labels Association (AIR) in 2014 and continues to be actively involved in the Independent Australian and New Zealand marketplace, advocating for creators across the region.
Joining FUGA in 2022, Compton is responsible for all business development, strategy and client acquisition in Australia and New Zealand for FUGA as well as working closely within the wider Downtown Music group of companies and their various specialist service offerings covering a range of recording and publishing solutions for independent music businesses. 
With extensive music marketing experience including for #1 and Top 10 ARIA albums from artists such as BTS, Ocean Alley and Ziggy Alberts, Compton is an established music executive who has significantly contributed to the health and vitality of the independent music sector within Australia and New Zealand. 

IRMA BOLZONELLO (BG PRIVATE)

Irma Bolzonello is an Associate Partner in BG Private’s Accounting & Business Advisory division. She has 30 years of experience in management accounting and consulting, and leads the firm’s Bookkeeping and Management Accounting teams.
With extensive knowledge of accounting systems, programs, and the latest cloud-based technology, Irma is highly skilled in recommending and implementing the right tools and processes to ensure each client has effective business management structures in place.
Irma and her team also provide clients with sophisticated modelling and analysis so that they have the data-based insights they need to achieve business growth.
Under her guidance, her team of about 10 bookkeepers provide end-to-end payroll, outsourced bookkeeping, and management reporting services. Her clients value Irma’s ability to “look under the hood” and she is passionate about helping business owners implement efficiencies so that they can focus on other aspects of running their businesses. Irma is a Fellow of the Institute of Public Accountants.

IXARA DORIZAC (ANTI-DISMAL)

Ixaras is a queer Indie Pop Rock artist & songwriter raised in Meanjin Brisbane who champions her self expression through the art of music and live gigs. Alongside her melodic ear worms and incredibly thought provoking lyrics about the complexities of growing up and young love, Ixara emulates youth, inclusivity and accessibility with her all-ages, DIY event management and record label ‘Anti-Dismal’. This year Ixara’s live show and Anti-Dismal were taken to new heights where she has put on multiple sold-out headline shows across Meanjin Brisbane (not a phone in sight) and announced the record label arm of the company.

JACK BERGIN (VOID OF VISION)

Jack Bergin is the vocalist and mastermind behind the Melbourne metal outfit Void Of Vision. At the forefront of creative direction for the past decade, Jack has overseen the quartet solidifying their standing as one of the most innovative and sonically explosive acts in the heavy scene. 
Over the course of the band’s extensive touring history both at home and abroad, Jack has led the group to global success, redefining modern heavy music through a sharp and compelling lens through their signature sound and imagery.
From recent unforgettable appearances abroad alongside Stray From The Path and Erra to career highs back home, completing their first entirely sold out headline tour alongside an appearance at the inaugural Knotfest Australia – Jack is no stranger to translating his larger than life ideas from his brain to the big stages, always leading the band’s energetic live show to the masses worldwide.
Primed for the release of Void Of Vision’s highly anticipated 4th studio album ‘What I’ll Leave Behind’ and an upcoming arena tour supporting Aussie juggernauts Parkway Drive, all amidst beginning radiotherapy treatment, Jack retains his razor sharp focus & artistic integrity, continuously leading the band to the peak of their career.

JESSI TILBROOK (PAK RECORDS)

Jessi Tilbrook is the co-director of Kaurna/Adelaide based label and live events collective P.A.K Records. Since founding P.A.K in 2013 she has produced more than 200 live events for artists like Bikini Kill, Amyl and The Sniffers, Mogwai and Ty Segall.
The record label arm of P.A.K was established in 2021. Currently on the roster are South Australian based post-punk bands The Empty Threats and Coldwave, folk singer-songwriter Ella Ion, and garage rockers Baby Candy.
Jessi drums in doom metal project Rocky’s Pride & Joy who recently released their debut album in September 2023 on Italian record label Electric Valley Records which charted at #15 on the global Doom Charts. They were a finalist in the national ‘Best Heavy Act’ category in the 2023 National Live Music Awards.

JIM ROMEO (GROUND CONTROL TOURING)

Jim Romeo boasts over 30 years experience in the booking business and has helped shape the careers of such legendary artists as Belle & Sebastian, Big Thief, Neutral Milk Hotel, Cat Power, Guided By Voices, Mdou Moctar and many others.  In 2000 he co-founded Ground Control Touring which today represents over 400 acts for live bookings.

JOE ALEXANDER (MUSIC IN EXILE)

For the past twelve years, Joe Alexander has developed and run a range of initiatives in the music industry, from advocating for representation of musicians from migrant backgrounds, to profiling musicians and arts workers working in regional and remote areas and bringing contemporary musicians together in collaboration and community building.
In 2009, Joe founded Bedroom Suck Records, an independent label which now has over eighty releases in distribution throughout Australia, New Zealand, Japan, North America, the UK and Europe. He later formed the Great Southern Land Touring Co., an initiative aimed at connecting with musicians in remote and regional Australia. 
Ten years later, 2019 saw the launch of Music in Exile, an exciting new not-for-profit record label and artist services company working with Australian musicians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. The Music in Exile team has grown to six staff, managing the growth and development of a roster of exciting artists and working to build an organisation that is artist-driven and community minded. 
For Joe, meeting individuals and hearing their stories is the greatest joy the music industry can bring, and he hopes to share this experience with audiences everywhere.

JORDANNE CHANT (DINOSAUR CITY)

Dinosaur City founder Jordanne Chant works to elevate the most exciting sounds from the underground through thoughtful, creative and innovative campaigns. She has built and led profitable publicity and marketing plans for esteemed acts like Cub Sport and Gang of Youths, while nurturing the careers of rising stars including Platonic Sex, e4444e, Wet Kiss, The Empty Threats and Workhorse.
Jordanne’s passion for the arts extends beyond label management and promotion, her design work for much-loved indie artists including Julia Jacklin, Good Morning, Beach Fossils and TOPS recognised by It’s Like That, CRACK Magazine and Oyster among others. 
In addition, she’s orchestrated and promoted countless tours across metropolitan, regional and remote Australia.

JOSH PYKE (ARTIST, PPCA)

Josh Pyke is a prolific songwriter with a successful and critically acclaimed career both domestically and overseas. His six studio albums to date have all debuted in the ARIA Top 10. Among numerous other honours, he has received four ARIA Awards, ten ARIA nominations, and gold/platinum accreditations. Josh is a member of the AGSC and a respected composer for film and TV, having received an APRA Award for film composition. He is preparing for the upcoming release of his favourite cover tracks EP, showcasing his unique interpretations of beloved songs, due out in August 2024. Josh is a committed member of the music community and an influential advocate for creators. He has been an active APRA Ambassador for 15 years and is the current and first artist chair of the PPCA.
Josh Pyke recently completed part two of his national Revisions Tour and earlier this year toured with the musical legend James Taylor. Later this year, he will tour with Passenger, with more touring news to be announced.
In addition to his musical endeavours, Josh is an acclaimed children’s book author with eight titles, including Lights Out Leonard, A Banana is A Banana, The Incredible Runaway Snot, and Chatterpuss. With two more releases due in 2024.
Josh has now ventured into children’s music with his AIR-nominated EP, “It’s Going to Be a Great, Great Day!” This is the first offering of kids’ music released by the award-winning Australian musician and author. Covering multiple genres, production styles, and topics, this exuberant collection of songs is a vibrant and often hilarious insight into a previously unexplored side of Pyke’s creative output. Written, performed, and produced by Josh in his home studio, the EP also features his own children contributing background vocals and vetting the project for any residual “dad lameness.”

KATE LAWRENCE (UNIFIED)

Kate Lawrence is UNIFIED Music Group’s Label Manager, overseeing operations across record labels UNFD and Domestic La La. In her seven years at the company, Kate has worked on more than 15 top 10 Australian charting albums and multiple ARIA-award-winning records.
Kate has been involved in global campaigns for artists such as Silverstein, Northlane, ERRA, Architects and Tonight Alive, and currently oversees campaigns for all of UNIFIED’s Australian-based artists, including Thornhill, Yours Truly, Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, Void Of Vision and more.
Expanding upon her background in social media and marketing, Kate specialises in fan engagement and streaming strategies for artists and is passionate about educating and empowering artists in the heavy music world and beyond.

KATE SCHAFFNER (CREATIVE AUSTRALIA)

Kate Schaffner is the Director of Creative Workplaces, a new part of Creative Australia established to promote fair, safe and respectful workplaces for the arts and culture sector. Kate is a dedicated workplace relations practitioner, with over 15 years’ experience. She has worked on the implementation of several workplace relations policy reforms including in response to the Respect@Work Recommendations and the coronavirus pandemic.
Kate is a strong advocate for plain language communication, and a longstanding champion for clear and accessible information for workers and businesses. Kate holds an Executive Master of Public Administration from the University of Melbourne and a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws from the University of Tasmania.  

KIRSTY RIVERS (SOUND STORY)

Kirsty is the Industry Relations Director at communications company, Sound Story.
Highly regarded as a music strategist, Kirsty is a creative force with 35 years of experience at the forefront of government policy and music industry development.
She has held senior positions across government and the music industry, including the Head of Music within the Australia Council, Senior Manager for Contemporary Music at Creative Victoria, and a remarkable 17-year tenure as National Manager for Writer Services at APRA AMCOS and Vice Chair for Music Victoria, PBS Fm and The Push.
Kirsty has been a powerful advocate for Australian artists who transforms the relationship between music and government through innovative policy, programs and partnerships. In recognition of her significant contribution to the music industry, Kirsty was inducted into the Hall of Fame at last year’s Music Victoria Awards.

KONSTANTIN KERSTING (PRODUCER)

Konstantin Kersting is a multi ARIA Award winning German-Australian record producer, sound engineer and songwriter. Active since 2015, he has worked with a diverse range of artists from Australia and internationally, with massive successes across the board.

LAURA HARPER (HUSH)

Laura’s a creative producer, connector, and catalyst. She’s currently the Label Manager for The Hush Foundation, a charity that collaborates with renowned Australian composers to transform healthcare through the healing power of music.
In her former role as the CEO of Music Tasmania, Laura advocated for the value of the Island’s music industry and presented programs to grow and connect local music with audiences.
She’s programmed a choral festival during a pandemic, a stage for the Unconformity in the main Street of Queenstown, and developed the Tasmanian Songbook Project, a theatrical production to celebrate the legacy of Tasmanian songs.
Laura’s consultancy, Happenstance Projects, specialises in advocacy, strategy, and project management. She loves collaborating with creative people and organisations to make magic happen and enable positive change.

LEAH HARRIS (SPOTIFY)

Leah Harris is the Artist & Label Partnerships Lead at Spotify. She is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with the artist community and their labels, enabling stronger value exchanges, and ultimately connecting audiences and artists to empower the local creative community.

LEE STEWART (CHANGER STUDIOS)

Lee has worked in short form video for the past 11 years. In addition to helping Changer roll out its up-skilling programs across APAC and North America, he manages brand partnerships for a curated roster of global creators. His role involves collaborating with diverse brands to create strategic partnerships that benefit both the creators and the companies they work with, ensuring that each campaign aligns with the brand’s goals and the creator’s unique style.

LISA HRESKO (A2IM)

Lisa Hresko is the General Manager at A2IM (The American Association of Independent Music). A2IM, which consists of over 600 U.S. record label members and nearly 200 other music businesses, advocates for the needs of the independent music community on a policy level.
Additionally, Lisa works to ensure that all A2IM members receive the highest level of education and community resources. Prior to A2IM, she spent nearly ten-year tenure at CMJ during which time she held several positions including Editor-in-Chief.
Her responsibilities encompassed booking the professional programming for CMJ Music Marathon, leading the radio department, and developing international initiatives. Lisa has been an invited speaker at music conferences across the globe.

LORRAE MCKENNA (OUR GOLDEN FRIEND)

In a career spanning over two decades, Lorrae McKenna has emerged as a pioneering force in the Australian music industry. As the Owner/Director of Melbourne-based record label and artist management collective Our Golden Friend, Lorrae’s journey is characterised by a relentless passion for music, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering commitment to nurturing artistic talent.
Lorrae’s career trajectory began with roles at iconic establishments like Allans/Billy Hyde Music and Crucial Music, where she honed her skills in marketing and publicity, as well as assiting in the day-to-day management of artists like The Living End, 360, Gyroscope, and Children Collide. Her journey continued at 774 ABC Melbourne, working as the local radio PR and Marketing Coordinator. 
In 2013, Lorrae took on the role of Promotions and Marketing Manager at Remote Control Records. Her impact was transformative as she reinvigorated the label’s Australian roster, signing and developing acts that have become synonymous with the contemporary Australian music scene including Courtney Barnett, King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, Orb, Methyl Ethel, The Murlocs, Saskwatch, Dorsal Fins, The Babe Rainbow, Pearls, Lost Animal, Client Liaison, Teeth & Tongue, Leah Senior, Jess Riberio, Jim Lawrie, Total Giovanni, Milwaukee Banks, Oh Pep!, Big Smoke, Jarrow, Jeremy Neale, Velociraptor, Sui Zhen, Banoffee, Sunbeam Sound Machine, Gabriella Cohen & friendships.
As well as undertaking this A&R function, Lorrae planned and implemented PR & Marketing strategies for international artists including Adele, Radiohead, Anohni, Queens of The Stone Age, The National, Kim Gordon, Sigur Ros, Cat Power, Future Islands, Beirut, FKA Twigs, Mac Demarco, The National, Fat Freddy’s Drop, Grimes, Vampire Weekend, Jack White, Thom York, Jungle, The xx, Jamie xx, Kurt Vile, Deerhunter, Parquet Courts, Purity Ring, Thurston Moore, Warpaint, and Yo La Tengo (among many others).
In recognition of her contributions to the industry, Lorrae received the APRA AMCOS Lighthouse Award in 2019 for being a female Victorian music manager who exemplifies passion, creativity, and integrity. Her commitment extends to fostering inclusivity within the musical community, advocating for non-male and queer artists. Lorrae currently sits on the board of the Australian Independent Record Labels Association (AIR).
In September 2023 Lorrae launched Golden Grants under the umbrella of Our Golden Friend, a grant funding consultancy service which demystifies, streamlines and educates creatives from all fields in sourcing potential funding opportunities for their projects.
Our Golden Friend’s current management roster includes Bonnie Knight (Producer),  Coldwave, Elizabeth, ENOLA, Good Morning & RVG.
The Our Golden Friend label roster current consists of 808s & Greatest Hits, Elizabeth, Peak Twins, Chitra, Way Dynamic, Moonlover & Poppongene.

LUKE LOGEMANN (GREEN MUSIC AUSTRALIA)

Luke Logemann has 20 years of experience across the music industry. He was co-founder of record labels UNFD and Domestic La La, e-commerce store 24 Hundred, and was also the curator and producer for Unify Gathering, a camping festival in regional Victoria. He has A&R, Artist Management, Marketing and Promoting experience across heavy, rock, indie and rap music. Recently, he has worked as a consultant for music and sustainability projects, with a focus on business strategy, sales and marketing ideas that contribute a positive impact to the community and planet.

LYNNE SMALL (PPCA)

Lynne Small has been with ARIA and PPCA since 1996, and currently holds the position of Chief Operating Officer (COO) for both organisations. Lynne is a CPA, holds an MBA from the AGSM, and previously spent seven years with Festival Records.
Lynne is also a Director and Vice Chair of the Australian Copyright Council, and Co-Chair of the music industry benevolent fund Support Act Ltd.

MANDI MCINTYRE (QMUSIC)

Mandi is a creative program director and cultural advocate with two decades of experience leading festival programs and creative industry sector development in Queensland, Tasmania, the UK and South Africa.
After cutting her teeth in the early 2000s as a Zedliner and graveyard announcer at 4ZZZ FM, Mandi’s passion for music, arts and social issues saw her find a home in festival management at Woodford Folk Festival. She progressed into creative programming and commercial development at the festival, before taking opportunities to work internationally with Glastonbury Festival, then relocating to Tasmania where she became immersed in the arts and cultural scene as the state’s Northern Arts Officer. She returned to Woodfordia in 2012 with a mission to develop and lead The Planting Festival. Mandi also programmed Contemporary music, Speakers and Ideas and multi-arts and media programs for Woodford Folk Festival until 2018.
Throughout her career, Mandi has continued to broaden her focus towards policy, strategy and sector development in government and industry roles, traversing economic and regional development and education. Mandi has led sector development and public programming for cultural institutions such as Arts Tasmania, AbAF, State Library of Queensland and the Creative Arts Alliance. As a trusted independent project consultant, she has worked with several local governments, universities and events across Australia. She is currently a director of the board for Green Music Australia.
As a creative, Mandi makes original shows and experiences for festival and cultural institution audiences with credits including Festival of Fortune (later Game Show Off!), The Lettering House, A Village Called …, Village Games, Jugger Siege, The Fix Australia Think Tank (with Charles Firth), Dangerous Fridays, ABC Live Podcast series, Nests and Monster Siege.  
Mandi is inspired by the profound impact that music can have on issues of environmental and social justice and the generations of artists who have used their platforms to create change. She has recently undertaken post-graduate studies in international development, with a focus on the value of culture, arts and music. To her role at QMusic, Mandi brings this passion and her experience to create as many opportunities for artists and the sector as possible through BIGSOUND and QMusic, truly believing that music can create the ‘good change’ we want to see in the world. 

MARCUS ROWLAND (OUTDUSTRY, CN)

Originally from the UK, Marcus moved to Beijing in 2011 and eventually joined Outdustry in 2015, where he set up the company’s A&R team. As an A&R, he has worked with many of China’s biggest artists, including multiple platinum albums for Bibi Zhou. Under his direction, the team has becoming one of the country’s most successful song pitching teams, including a recent string of #1’s with Chinese Idol KUN. He also led the first batch of exclusive Chinese songwriter deals as part of Outdustry’s partnership with Reservoir Media. Since 2022, he has overseen all of Outdustry’s operations in China, encompassing A&R, Rights Consultancy, Marketing, Outdustry Publishing and Outdustry Masters. He is currently based in Taipei.

MARDI CAUGHT (THE ANNEX)

Mardi Caught carries a weight of global and domestic experience, operating as a leader in the Australian music industry for nearly 30 years. Across her career, Mardi’s held multiple senior executive positions within Warner, EMI and Sony in Australia and the UK. In the early ‘00s she took a diversion into broadcasting, assuming the role of VP of Talent and Music at MTV UK.
Mardi established The Annex in 2018  and since then the company has worked on campaigns for artists including Lime Cordiale, Bluey, Genesis Owusu, Matt Corby, Porter Robinson, Tash Sultana, Alice Ivy, Royal Otis and Hiatus Kaiyote.

MARIA AMATO (AIR)

Maria Amato is the CEO of AIR and WIN Executive Board member and Treasurer. Amato has worked in the arts and not-for-profit sector for over 30 years and is recognised as a change agent specialising in finance management and leadership.
Elected as the first female and first person from the Southern hemisphere to chair the board of WIN as part of its annual rotation in Feb 2022, Amato was then elected as treasurer in Feb 2023 and continues to serve as a member of WIN’s executive committee. Maria has held former non-executive director positions for the Adelaide UNESCO City Of Music, the Australian Institute of Music, Music Victoria and as Anchor Board member for the Reeperbahn Festival.

MATT ‘FOOTY’ HORVATH (CLARITY RECORDS)

Matt Horvath (aka Footy) has been a regular in the Adelaide music community for over 25 years.
From attending local shows at a very young age, Footy started playing in bands in the year 2000 and continues to do so today. Across a handful of bands, Footy has played shows all across the globe and has 30 releases credited to his name.
Also in the year 2000, Footy started his first record label, releasing 25 releases before finishing up in 2006. Using his experience from running a label, playing in bands, selling music at local shows and working at an independent record store, Footy turned all his focus and energy to opening a record store with his wife Laura. Clarity Records opened it’s doors in April 2010 and has since become Adelaide’s leading independent music store.
Clarity Records has grown to become community hub and a staple within the South Australian music community. Clarity Records is also a record label, currently with 16 releases to it’s name and a catalogue that continues to grow.
Clarity Records has also become known for the popular festivals and events that they hold in-store and in other venues around Adelaide.

MAX THOMAS (SECRETLY GROUP)

Max is the APAC Label Manager at iconic American indie label Secretly Group, looking after operations and marketing for ANZ, Asia and Africa. He started his career at Apple Music in London on the Editorial & Label Relations team; before moving to independent hip-hop label GRADUATION* as a Product Manager. Two years ago he made the move down under as Secretly’s first employee in Australia, working across the labels Dead Oceans, Jagjaguwar and Secretly Canadian. In his current role, he has worked on projects by artists including Phoebe Bridgers, Bon Iver, Mitski, Khruangbin, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and more; overseeing all marketing, strategy and on-ground activity for Secretly’s releases in APAC.

MICHAEL KUCYK (EFFICIENT SPACE)

Michael Kucyk founded indie label Efficient Space in 2014, drawing on his experience as an A&R manager at Mushroom Music and Modular, as well as his 13-year tenure hosting Noise In My Head on Triple R FM and NTS Radio. Across 40 releases, Efficient Space has explored a diverse range of sounds, including ’90s Australian dance music, Indigenous electronica, dream pop, and post-punk. A largely DIY entity, the label is self-distributed, shares stories through its annual magazine, promotes events, and routinely licenses masters into major Hollywood productions. In 2023, Kucyk formed the Independent Music Exchange with his colleagues at Butter Sessions, a tradeshow that showcased over 60 like-minded Australian indie record labels.

NICHOLAS PICKARD (APRA AMCOS)

Nicholas Pickard is one of Australia’s leading creative and cultural industry policy expertse and cultural industry policy experts. With experience in the UK, Europe and Asia Pacific he is currently the Executive Director, Public Affairs and Government Relations at APRA AMCOS.
Prior to this he was the Director Corporate Affairs for Copyright Agency. A former theatre director, arts journalist, theatre critic and adviser to state and federal arts ministers, Nicholas was central to the team that created, devised and launched Australia’s 2013 national cultural policy – Creative Australia. Nicholas is a board member of Screen Australia and the NSW Government’s Creative Communities Council. Nicholas is a former Chair of the Australian Society of Authors and is a Fellow of The Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce. 

NICOLE FICENEC (BRILLIANT CORNERS, US)

NICOLE FICENEC has 15+ years experience supporting the creators ‘behind the scenes’ of your favorite album. Nicole began her music industry career in the A&R department of British independent publisher Chrysalis Music, later pivoting to producer and artist management. 
Nicole provides strategic planning, holistic support and project management to music creatives, with a focus on building resilient creative and financial partnerships in an ever-changing industry landscape. She proudly represents Jonathan Rado (Weyes Blood, The Killers), Paul Butler (The Teskey Brothers, The Bees), Noah Georgeson (Devendra Banhart, Johanna Newsom), Dave Cerminara (Father John Misty, Phosphorescent), Nick Waterhouse (Allah-Las, Jon Batiste), and more. 

OSCAR DAWSON (PRODUCER, ARTIST)

Whether in league with the innovative HOLY HOLY, or on retainer for some of the most exciting acts rotating now, Oscar Dawson is always looking to connect. His art as a musician, writer and producer is the manufacture of a sonic arc that extends from the heart of the author to that same affecting muscle in the receiver.
In his own project, HOLY HOLY, or as a co-writer/producer for many other artists in Australia and beyond, Dawson’s renown as a multi-instrumentalist, producer, and composer means that he resonates at sympathetic frequencies to those seeking out his lush and expansive sound.
In the studio, Dawson is sought for his high definition, textured approach to sound, not only adding requisite sheen and focus, but a deeper nuance, so the feeling shines through. As a writer, he seeks to find the emotional connection points with the artists he collaborates with, searching for the meeting points between their minds, and expanding and augmenting the stories that they can share.

PAUL LYNCH (LIVE NATION)

With seven years of experience in the live industry, Paul Lynch joined Live Nation in 2020 as the music ‘Programming Manager’ for the APAC Special Events division, where he booked acts for large-scale events such as the Royal Melbourne Show.
In September 2022, Paul made the move over to Live Nation’s promoter team and has since booked several successful tours and shows across Australia and New Zealand, including Keinemusik, Jungle, The Warehouse Project Australia, Boris Brejcha, Vintage Culture, Tourist, The Beths, Holy Holy and Hot Dub Time Machine. 

PIPPA RYAN-KIDD (IMNZ, NZ)

IMNZ Chair www.indies.co.nz
Artist Management: 
Tami Neilson  www.tamineilson.com 
Delaney Davidson www.delaneydavidson.com
Jenny Mitchell www.jennymitchell.co.nz
Kylie Price https://www.kylieprice.co.nz
Project Management, Publicity: 
Troy Kingi www.troykingi.com

30 years of working both internationally and locally in artist management, music distribution, retail and publicity. Working with New Zealand and International artists on album releases and tours.

PNAU

PNAU is the multi-platinum-selling, ARIA award-winning electronic act of Nick Littlemore (Empire of the Sun, Vlossom, Teenager), Peter Mayes and Sam Littlemore, famed for their extensive career born out of the underground clubs and festival dancefloors of Australia. 
The past two years have seen PNAU usher in their latest era with collaborators like Troye Sivan, Khalid, Bebe Rexha, Ozuna and most recently Nick Littlemore’s other project, Empire of the Sun. Whilst working with some of the biggest names in the business, PNAU are committed to nurturing and developing new talent, launching their own label, Lab78, paying it forward by mentoring and collaborating with a whole new generation of Australian artists.

REGGIE BA-PE (AWZA)

Reggie is the CEO and Founder of Alias, a platform that makes it easy to create content as 3D characters and avatars from any device. With over 15 years at the forefront of youth culture, entertainment, and digital culture, Reggie has been a driving force in the Asia-Pacific creative industries. He previously served as the creative director of 88rising and founded creative production agency Club Media, video-game themed bar Arcade, Shanghai’s largest underground club Arkham, and the renowned Chinese promotions company Sonically Transmitted Disease. His experience ranges from designing music campaigns in China with James Blake for Sprite to touring Aussie artists like The Presets, Regurgitator, and Kirin J Callinan to his club in Shanghai. Passionate about the fringes of music and digital culture, Reggie is now exploring emerging technologies and their transformative impact on the creator economy. 

RENEE BARNES (THE PEOPLE PARADOX)

Renee is the founder of The People Paradox, an organisation that supports small to medium sized businesses to set up their people foundations for growth. She has 20 years of strategic and operational People and Culture experience in both public and private organisations, spanning businesses like Marsh Insurance, Parks Victoria, Aesop, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Art Series Hotels and she is a Board Member of Aspergers Victoria.  
She is passionate about creating engaging workplaces where people are enabled to succeed. Her clients range from Fin Tech, the Music Industry, the Courts, Research and Development Corporations, all the way through to contemporary retail businesses demonstrating her adaptable approach to shaping workforce strategies and people programs that suit her client’s needs. Renee is an excellent listener, compassionate by nature and a strategic thinker.
Renee also has a vision to reduce gender disadvantages experienced by mothers whilst on parental leave. She is developing the FOUND Program which is a digital education program that supports and empowers mothers to navigate their matrescence before returning to the workplace to achieve better outcomes for mothers, families, employers, and communities.    

SENATOR SARAH HANSON-YOUNG

Senator Sarah Hanson-Young is a passionate environmentalist, community campaigner, feminist, and human rights activist. With 16 years in the Parliament, Sarah has become one of the country’s leading voices on women in politics, environmental protection, climate change, media laws and diversity, and human rights policy. Sarah is the Australian Greens Manager of Business in the Senate, and Party spokesperson for the Environment and Water, Media and Communications, and the Arts. She is chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Environment and Communications, and Deputy Chair of the Joint Select Committee on Social Media and Australian Society. Sarah has a strong interest in media and communications policy, heading the push for a shake up of media laws in Australia and a Royal Commission for media reform and diversity.
Most recently she introduced a bill to establish a Royal Commission into the Murdoch media empire and the control and influence they have over Australian democracy. 
Her short book “En Garde” was a personal exposé that helped break the silence on women’s treatment in modern Australian politics.
Sarah has been a Young Global Leader with the World Economic Forum since 2016 and was a Bloomberg Catalyst in 2021.

SARAH HAMILTON (GOLDEN HOUR)

Sarah Hamilton has been working in digital distribution and the online music space since its inception in Australia in the mid 2000s, and was  the Regional Manager of Australia and New Zealand for Ditto Music for close to ten years. She loves helping independent artists gain access to opportunities, understand the digital world, and promote their music internationally. Sarah is also a co-founder of the charity One of One, which highlights women and non-binary people working within the music industry.
Sarah has been listed in The Music’s Power 50 list of influential people in the Australian music industry twice, and was also awarded the Music Victoria inaugural award for an Outstanding Woman in Music for her work with One of One. She has recently launched her company Golden Hour, and is working with people and artists she loves. 

SIMRAN PASRICHA (JOURNALIST, CONTENT CREATOR)

Simran Pasricha is a Malaysian-Punjabi journalist and content creator living in Melbourne.
She writes and creates content about everything ranging from activism and politics to culture, with a sharp focus on Gen Z and feminist perspectives. Simran has written for publications including Zee Feed and Missing Perspectives and is a reoccurring guest on Triple J Hack’s ‘The Shakeup’. Simran aims to reshape how we consume media and discuss critical issues.

STEPHEN KING (MEDIA ARTS LAWYERS)

Stephen practises in all facets of commercial and entertainment law; with a particular focus on music, particularly within the independent sector through his representation of the Australian and New Zealand label associations and numerous independent record labels within Australia, New Zealand and internationally.
Stephen combines his legal knowledge with his vast experience in the music industry, including in private practice in the UK representing major artists, labels and industry bodies and in Australia as the Business Affairs Manager for Festival Mushroom Records. Stephen is a supporter of local music and provides pro-bono services to Music NT and Arts Law members. Stephen is the manager of the multi award winning artist, Georgi Kay and of ARIA Award winning producer, Dean Tuza.

STUART KENNEDY (ATC LIVE)

Stuart Kennedy is a UK based booking agent, who has been at ATC Live for over a decade. His roster includes artists such as Cable Ties, Tropcial Fuck Storm, Death From Above 1979, The Magnetic Fields and Jamie Webster.

SWEETIE ZAMORA (REMOTE CONTROL RECORDS)

Sweetie Zamora is a music industry management professional with over 15 years of experience at independent record labels, music festivals, publicity services and specialist radio.
As Director of Labels & Project Management at Remote Control Records she manages relationships between label partners, artists, managers and external stakeholders. Current label partners include XL Recordings, Matador, Rough Trade, 4AD, Young, Secret City Records, Captured Tracks / Omnian Music Group, Dot Dash Recordings and more. She leads Remote Control’s internal team to deliver the best results for labels, artists, supports their growth and always does so with empathy and understanding.
With over a decade at Remote Control – Sweetie has delivered multiple ARIA #1 Albums as well as Gold and Platinum sellers for the likes of Adele, Courtney Barnett, Radiohead, Queens Of The Stone Age, The xx, The National and more… as well as guiding the careers of beloved local artists including Ngaiire, Donny Benet, Memphis LK, Carla Geneve, Sui Zhen and many others.
In early 2021, she founded Pointer Recordings, her own label imprint, home to Telenova, Glenn Hopper, Jamaica Moana and a number of other genre-bending artists.
Since 2007 Sweetie has worked for the likes of Bossy Music, Laneway Festival, Vivid LIVE at Sydney Opera House, Warner Music Australia and FBi Radio. She is a board member of AIR (Australian Independent Record Label’s Association), plays violin, bass guitar and is a Ken Done enthusiast.

TANIA DOKO (ARTIST)

As one half of ARIA award winning, much-loved duo Bachelor Girl, Tania Doko has enjoyed much success with James Roche. In 1998 their debut “Buses and Trains” became an Australian and international smash, making a huge mark in the U.S, via legendary A&R Clive Davis and Arista Records. According to APRA, it boasts one of the most played Australian compositions on Australian radio over the last 25 years. Their debut album ‘WAITING FOR THE DAY’ spawned 5 hit singles, and can be heard on high rotation radio in Australia.
As songwriter and vocalist, Tania has proven her mark globally, particularly during her relocation to Sweden as a songwriter for hire. She featured and has co-written with artists including The Veronicas on ‘DON’T SAY GOODBYE’, ‘JOYRIDE’ for the U.S Disney film ‘STEP UP 3’, Taylor Dayne’s Club U.S Billboard no.7 hit single ‘FLOOR ON FIRE’, ‘WHAT YOU’VE DONE TO ME’ for Samantha Jade, (hitting no.1 and four times platinum) ‘RISK IT’ for Jessica Mauboy, and co-wrote/contributed backing vocals on Tina Arena’s  LOVE SAVES album, entering no.1 on the ARIA Australian album chart.  She has also co-penned hits for Aussie band Sheppard and various Kpop/Jpop stars. In 2022 Tania won the Australian Women in Music(AWMA) Songwriter Award.
Tania has taken on roles in TV and theatre worlds, too, including a mentor role on Channel 7’s Popstars and a lead role in Tim Rice’s Musical Spectacular alongside Kate Ceberano, INXS and Anthony Warlow.
Tania has reignited her career as solo artist, kicked off by her participation in SBS’s ‘Eurovision-Australia Decides’ in 2019 with more of her acclaimed pop writing in ‘PIECE OF ME’ and in 2023 released her highly anticipated solo EP ‘THE BEAUTY IS IN THE BROKEN’ with Swedish producer Mattias Lindblom. Her hypnotic single ‘HARDER NOW’ enjoyed a no.7 AIR chart release and a much loved reception from industry and fans. Bachelor Girl has also reinstated itself on the Oz festival circuit(regular bookings on a ‘Day On the Green’ & Red Hot Summer) and a new BG album is in the works, to be released in 2025.
In between her passions for Bachelor Girl, solo career, her APRA ambassador role, songwriting for outside artists and live performing, with a degree in Psychology/ Criminology and background in youth work to boot, Tania is committed to mentoring up-and-coming artists…helping them maximise their voice and opportunities in a complex, modern music industry.

TILLY TJALA THOMAS (ARTIST)

Tilly Tjala Thomas is a Nukunu singer-songwriter, who grew up on the Fleurieu Peninsula, South of Adelaide. Since finishing school in 2020, the electronic pop and indie musician has bagged numerous industry accolades, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Musician of the Year, NIMA Unearthed Award at the 2021 National Indigenous Music Awards and the Emily Burrows Award at the 2021 South Australian Music Awards. Tilly was awarded the Stigwood Artist Fellowship (2022) and released her first EP, Sanctuary.

TINA MANOLITSAS (THE LEADERS MENTOR)

Tina Manolitsas brings over 25 years of cross-industry experience as a Trusted Advisor, Mentor, and Board Member. She is a compassionate and engaging leader who serves as a trusted confidant to business leaders. She is committed to enhancing their capabilities, broadening their perspectives, and improving their leadership for themselves and their teams. As an In-Residence Mentor, she is committed to nurturing the next generation of future-focused leaders. Alongside mentoring she lectures both locally and globally nurturing young minds. As an advocate for diversity and inclusion, Tina has co-authored two acclaimed industry whitepapers. Tina’s primary goal is to foster continued leadership growth – that is support leaders to support individuals instead of prematurely assigning them to roles they’re not ready for.

TOM IANSEK (PRODUCER, ARTIST)

Songwriter, performer and producer, Tom Iansek, also known for his musical projects #1 Dads as well as one half of Big Scary. A co-founder of artist-run label Pieater, Iansek has also worked behind the scenes for many Australian artists, producing, co-writing or mixing albums for Maple Glider, Lisa Mitchell, Hockey Dad, Airling, The Paper Kites, Charlie Collins and many more. Along with his Pieater colleagues, he runs an annual grant program called Pie School, where the winner is awarded song tracking and business mentorship. Previous recipients include Bec Sykes, Mood Spill and Seavera.

VANJA BEZBRADICA (SPOTIFY)

Vanja has spent over a decade working closely with independent artists. At Spotify, she is responsible for Artist & Label Partnerships, working on global artist development programs RADAR and Fresh Finds. 
Prior to joining Spotify, she held the position of Head of Digital at Remote Control Records, where she spearheaded their streaming and digital marketing strategy. In addition, Vanja represented the Beggars Group digital catalogue, contributing to the success of multiple chart-topping ARIA albums by acts such as Adele, The National, The xx, and Radiohead.

YASMIN NAGHAVI (MEDIA ARTS LAWYERS)

Yasmin Naghavi is a partner at Media Arts Lawyers. At the firm, Yasmin leads the Talent, Brands and Reputation practice, advising clients in relation to a variety of contractual, commercial, and employment matters. Holding both a Juris Doctor (hons) and an MBA, Yasmin combines experience with expertise, industry insight, and a passion for the creative and entertainment sector. Working in close partnership with her clients, she brings clarity to their legal rights and obligations, and advises with the intention of achieving the very best strategic and commercial outcome. Committed to giving back to the industry, she’s a serving board member of Never Not Creative and Youth Activating Youth, and a pro bono lawyer for the Arts Law Centre of Australia.