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WERE BACK !
PRESIDENTS REPORT 10 February 03
Greetings and a Happy New Year
to all. After a great close to 2002, with our Xmas Party Note for Note night,
here we are at the beginning of ’03; a year that is offering considerable
opportunities for making real musical progress, in our area.
One circumstance that is having a definite effect on Murwillumbah is the expressway
bypass. Consequently, there’s much thought going into realising practical
ways and means that will enable Murwillumbah to soon evolve more into a generally
viable tourist and visitor destination,
rather than just a convenient coffee-break stop.
In this respect to this development, I see a great opportunity for all local
musicians. For instance, al fresco performances in local cafes are definitely
a good way to go as was clearly indicated by successful Friday night performances
at the former “Karnis” restaurant. There’s no doubt that generally
accessible venues featuring vibrant, “unplugged” music are a much
appreciated community service and effectively promote hotel-industry live-music
entertainment, as well. Thus, beneficial for both locals and visitors alike,
these unrestricted circumstances give young musicians, under the mentorship
of seasoned players, an excellent opportunity to gain meaningful experience,
as well. So, in the final outcome, all bases are covered. Other developments
along these lines are the new opportunities for busking at Knox Park Markets,
with a fair retainer to be had.
In addition, Tweed Shire has been declared, “The City for the Arts”;
this means a very sizeable amount of funding to be shared around over the next
two years along with vital outside attention being paid to all our creative
efforts.
To sum up, under these timely circumstances, Murwillumbah Musicians Club can
only prosper given that its support base contains enough energies, ideas, expertise
and good intent to take proper advantage of these timely openings. So, we’ve
really got it made, now, all we need is to pull together and do it!
In closing, I am pleased to report the “Gordon McMullan Memorial”
gig, on the 4 January was a certain success, a good time was had by all. Also,
Murwillumbah Musicians Club is a paid up member of our local chamber of commerce.
This status will allow us to further contribute to the healthy growth of our
town and its surrounds, from another essential and visible perspective.
Finally, I sign off with a sentiment of one, Walter Pater, “All art aspires
to the condition of Music”.
Cheers,
Ross
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StreetBeat |
Welcome to our monthly newsletter, which will endeavour to keep you informed
about what is happening
in our part of the world.
Firstly “Karnis Cafe” has changed hands so I would like to thank
Sirrah and Julie for having the courage and foresight in supporting live accoutic
music. The Friday night sessions were a great boost to art and culture in our
town, so thank you to those people who came along and enjoyed a meal and entertainment.
New owners Fellin and Flame have totally renovated the cafe and changed the
name to “The Luffley Cafe” and are keen to continue the Friday night
live music session. So drop in for a meal and coffee and check out what is happening
at the cafe for who will be appearing.
Also while I’m at it, a big thank you to Dave and Claudine at the Aussie
Tavern for taking the bull by the horns and having the guts to support live
music in a big way. With open mike, hosted by Amanda Bell on Wednesday nights
and music Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, so drop in for a cold beer and
a meal and check out what’s on, there is music for all tastes.
There is also a change of the guard at the Roundhouse Tavern (Tweed Tavern)
and the new man on the job is Peter Kennedy who has made a commitment to live
music.
Brian at the Courthouse Hotel, who for a long time has supported the muso’s
club “Note for Note” nights every 3rd Thursday in the month, so
there is plenty happening with touring and local acts. Please support these
venues, use it or lose it as they say.
Lastly every 2nd Sunday of the month the “Caldera Folk Club” happens
from 12.00 noon. Linda Krausz and friends have been soldiering away there for
a long time. Linda is a fine singer/songwriter and it is always a pleasure to
see her perform, along with Andrew and Martin Howels who’s rural blues,
songs and guitar have to be seen to be appreciated. Show your support as it
costs nothing only your time and applause. If you wish to perform, just bring
along your instrument. PA is provided as is free tea and coffee.
Not much more to report - until next month - Keep in the groove !
Steve Brown
