“It’s really kicking into gear once again and it’s great to have the festival back,” she says. “When we got confirmation that [Jason Singh of] Taxi Ride and Boom Crash Opera’s Dale Ryder were really keen to play, well, that was a very exciting day. I really couldn’t believe that we secured them and they sell out everywhere they play. So to get them together is going to be a real highlight of the festival. They always know how to put on such a show and I’m really looking forward to it.”
In contrast to previous instalments, this year’s festival will be a one-day event. However, this hasn’t lessened Stoneham’s workload. “We are all volunteers at this festival and are in it for the love of music,” she says. “There is a lot of work to run a festival and we have a team behind the scenes, that are ticking off all the boxes to make it the best day we could possibly have.
“In previous years, festival goers have often wondered whether they go Friday, Saturday or Sunday, and we just thought it would be easier to make it a one-day event and create the same atmosphere. It will be a lot livelier and more of a happening event than previous years.”
At the helm since the festival’s inception in 2010, Stoneham’s love of music has always inspired the other volunteers who’ve worked on the festival. Anglesea Music Festival actually evolved out of another event that Stoneham was behind. “I started Anglesea Live back in 1999 and it was a music night that people could book in from all walks of life and that grew into what we know today,” she says.
Aside from the hefty lineup, this year’s festival will feature a massive community arts and crafts market. There are also several initiatives designed to involve Anglesea locals, including the up and coming artist stage and the festival internship program, both of which are offered in partnership with Oxygen Music. Throughout our conversation, it becomes apparent that Stoneham is wholeheartedly committed to getting young people from the area involved in the festival.
“I just want to give opportunities to the youth, and give them the love of music. I’m not looking for a pat on the back, but people need to know that music can help all facets of their life. I can’t wait to share this festival with everyone and look forward to seeing everyone down there.”
BY TEX MILLER
