By Candice Boyle
YOUNG band members will step across the battle lines next month for the Maribyrnong Push Start Battle of the Bands.
Aspiring musicians from across the Maribyrnong City Council area are already preparing for the competition and the chance to win the coveted battle title.
Organised by the Maribyrnong FreeZa committee, the annual competition will be held on Friday 29 June at Maribyrnong Community Centre.
Preparation for the event follows the FreeZa committee’s successful six band line-up at Footscray Community Arts Centre.
The recent event was a great prelude to the annual battle with the committee members organising each facet of the night.
Maribyrnong City Council’s representative for young people, councillor Michelle MacDonald praised all those involved.
“Judging by the enthusiastic reception the bands were given and the number of young people who attended, the event was a terrific success.
“It’s hard to believe the volunteers on the FreeZa committee ran this event themselves, from staffing the door and canteen, to stage management, production management, emceeing the event, and running the competitions and activities,” she said.
More than 20 young people are working together to organise the annual battle and a range of other shows throughout the year.
“FreeZa gigs are a great way for local bands to get out there, perform to a live audience and generate a following. An event like the upcoming Battle of the Bands can really help local young bands get the exposure they need — both at a regional, and even state level,” she said.
The winner and runner-up of the Maribyrnong Push Start Battle of the Bands will progress to the Western final.
