For over 15 years, Music in the Sticks has been giving young people in the Macedon Ranges an entry point to music and the arts.
The program is giving five local artists and bands a chance to perform live and take part in putting together a music event for Romsey Roll, taking place at Romsey Skate Park on Saturday, March 19.
Sixteen-year-old singer-songwriter Azime Roads is one of the musicians playing on the day, crooning her own songs about love and self-worth with her guitar.
Because artists had to apply to play the event, Ms Roads said being chosen as one of the acts was “unreal”.
“[Mum] told me she was entering me in, but it didn’t feel like I was actually going to win because I’ve never really taken my music further than just my bedroom,” Ms Roads said.
Gina Lyon, corporate and community acting director of Macedon Ranges Shire Council, said the event would provide a great opportunity for young people to connect with their peers, with community and Youth Services.
“The Romsey Roll will showcase the young talent within our shire, and provide an outlet for creative young people,” Ms Lyon said.
“The Romsey Roll is part of our plan to reinvigorate cultural events in a safe and inclusive way as we move away from the COVID restrictions of the past two years.”
Ms Roads said she’s both excited and nervous for the day, but that COVID-related lockdowns had given her a chance to hone her songwriting.
“It really helped me get my music together before I could expose myself,” Ms Roads said.
She hopes to see her family and friends in the crowd, which is likely because the event only costs $2 to attend.
The supervised, Covid-Safe and drug, alcohol and smoke free event will open at 12pm, with food trucks in attendance for a bite.
