The Big Issue

Busk For Change II- raising funds for the Homeless World Cup

Posted Nov 12th, 2008 • Category: Homeless World Cup News • By Anna O'Brien

Busk for Change, a three day entertainment extravaganza and fundraiser for the Melbourne 2008 Homeless World Cup, set Southbank on fire for an entire weekend. With all the money raised and artists time being donated, it was a chance for bands to make a difference and help to generate interest for the Homeless World Cup and its mission to change the lives of homeless people worldwide.

After a hazardous start with rain and wind on the opening Friday night, the sun shone through and we were able to celebrate a great turnout with amazing Melbourne talent all weekend long!

The weekend saw 21 acts perform over three fun filled days at Queens Bridge Square, Southbank from October 31st to November 2nd. It boasted styles of blues & roots, folk, rock, acoustic, indie, all the way through to reggae and pop.  Derby Day threw some interesting characters our way all dressed up and back from the races, Jesse Mitchell found himself with some impromptu backing vocalists. While packing up we were then given donations for random people to request songs for Karaoke.  We weren’t without our share of public participation which is great!

I would like to make special mention to our Friday night acts, as they went above and beyond the call of duty and played in horrendous conditions. The night aided Shaun Kirk in washing his guitar (if you like the rain drizzle effect). While we also asked Matt Katsis and The Benson Campaign to follow us around the city in the search for shelter. The night reminded us so clearly, how raw life on the streets must be.

Thankfully Saturday was a new day. It brought with it sunshine and 11 more acts. We were also blessed to have Peter, a vendor for The Big Issue for the next two days!

Sunday came with another full day of diverse talent and styles. There was more of a family feel in the air as the party animals from the night before were sleeping. It started with a great chilled vibe and crashed back into party mode when The Crooks brought a full drum kit and slide guitar on stage. Their loud unique style brought interest from far and wide.

We were lucky to share the event with such strong performers and I’d like to take this opportunity to give a shout out to all the bands involved. Do check them out because they are on the rise and we are sure to be hearing much more from them all!

The list includes:

The Benson Campaign – folk rock/hip hop/ indie

Shaun Kirk – Blues / roots
“Foot Stompin’ Beats with a social conscience” - Nadine Cloonan (Yarra Valley FM)

Alanna Deutrom – Acoustic / pop (2007 Girlfriend of the Year, Girlfriend Magazine, 16 years old)

Bonnie Anderson – Folk rock / Acoustic / Soul (Winner first season of Channel 10’s ‘Australia’s Got Talent’, 14 years old)

Chris Cavill – Blues / Reggae / Roots

Broni – Pop / Acoustic

Matt Katsis – Acoustic / Reggae

The Crooks – Roots / Blues / Rock

Shane Walters – Acoustic / Roots

Simon Phillips Band – Acoustic / Indie

Jesse Mitchell – Acoustic / Indie

Charles Baby - Acoustic / folk rock / alternative

Greg Walsh - Blues / Soul / Jazz

Cooper Street Exit- Alternative / Rock

It adds something special to the project when each act on stage brings the right spirit. The money goes a long way, but the knowledge and compassion spread is what changes worlds. And for this, Ben and I would like to thank everyone involved!

Ben & Casey

Top photo - Simon Phillips
Bottom photo - Chris Cavill.