Gold Coaster Ashley Dunn has had a chance to put her studies into practice by helping young artists get a start in the music industry.
The Southern Cross University Bachelor of Business in Convention and Event Management student was the driving force behind the Bendigo Bank Tugun Stage which showcased professional bands along with a mixture of bands from local schools at the Cooly Rocks On Festival which took place last weekend.
Ashley, who was responsible for identifying, booking and organising the bands for the stage on the day, was completing the project as part of a four-month internship with Cooly Rocks On organised through Southern Cross University’s Centre for Tourism Leisure and Work.
School bands booked by Ashley to mix it with the professionals last weekend included the 32-piece Wollumbin High School Band, the 13-piece Tallebudgera School of Rock band from Tallebudgera State Primary School, the Lindisfarne Kings of Rock and Brisbane-based bands the QACI Funk Band and Cordobas both from the Queensland Academy for Creative Industries.
Ashley, who is based in Elanora and studies at the Gold Coast campus of Southern Cross University, said she enjoyed the event.
“The stage showcased the theme of the festival which was 1950s and 60s rock and roll, but it was aimed at broadening the spectrum of ages and getting all aspects of the community involved,” said Ashley.
“It was all about promoting young talent and creating a family orientated atmosphere, which was very satisfying to be involved in.
“Organising a youth line-up at a music festival is a level of responsibility I’ve never had before and I’m so grateful for the opportunities that have been given to me through this internship.
“I was even able to travel overseas with my supervisor to promote Cooly Rocks On at an event called Beach Hop in New Zealand which is similar to the event in Coolangatta. That was my first time overseas so of course I was absolutely thrilled – and now I’ve got the travel bug!”
Professor Kerry Brown, director of Southern Cross University’s Research Centre for Tourism, Leisure and Work which supported Cooly Rocks On and the Bendigo Bank Tugun Stage, said she was proud to be involved in the event.
“The University and the Research Centre for Tourism Leisure and Work are delighted to contribute to community events such as this which support the economic development of the Southern Gold Coast,” said Professor Brown.
“It’s not just about having a fun event, it’s about creating a positive benefit for the community, bringing youth to participate in the rock and roll culture and nurturing our next generation of musicians.”
For Ashley, Cooly Rocks On was just the beginning.
“I enjoy knowing how things work, not just the end product, which is why events management is such a passion for me – there are so many facets to it and great opportunities within the industry,” said Ashley.
“I’m just trying to gain as much work experience as I can in the industry before I graduate next year, so that I will be equipped to take on other opportunities as they arise.”sf
