Melbourne’s longest-running free public event series ‘Melbourne Conversations’ is back, with a bold line-up of special guests – making knowledge more accessible for all Melburnians.
The reenergised Melbourne Conversations program launches on Wednesday 14 February – bringing together local and international personalities, authors, artists and experts for insightful talks on topics mattering most to Melburnians.
The City of Melbourne and Fed Square will present six curated events in Fed Square across 2024 – allowing twice as many audience members to attend compared to last year.
Hosted by legendary Triple R presenter Chris Gill, the first conversation on Valentine’s Day is themed around Love Song Dedications to Melbourne, and will explore Melbourne’s world-renowned music scene with special guests from Australia’s music and entertainment industries, including:
- Adriana – a Melbourne-based DJ, promoter and former host of PBS FM’s Opalakia program, known for showcasing a diverse mix of beats from her Greek heritage and across the globe. Adriana is also a certified life coach and founded self-development company Authenticity Matters, which helps inspire people to live a genuine and fulfilling life.
- Uncle Kutcha Edwards – a multi-award-winning musician and proud Mutti Mutti, Yorta Yorta and Nari Nari man. He has been prolifically combining songwriting and activism since 1991, playing in legendary groups including Watbalimba, Blackfire and The Black Arm Band. In 2023, Kutcha was inducted into Music Victoria’s Hall of Fame.
- Russel Howcroft – the co-host of award-winning radio show Breakfast with Ross & Russel on 3AW, and a panellist on the ABC’s Gruen program. Russel has played in several bands in Melbourne and is a classically trained jazz drummer.
- Romy Vager – the frontwoman and lead guitarist of Australian Music Prize-winning band, RVG (Romy Vager Group). Romy’s songwriting prowess, which blends ear-catching jangling guitar lines that offset raw and emotive lyrics, have seen RVG become cherished members of the Melbourne music scene.
The Love Song Dedications to Melbourne conversation, running from 6pm – 7:15pm, will highlight Melbourne’s position as Australia’s cultural capital, featuring a live performance by Uncle Kutcha Edwards and discussions with attendees.
A City of Melbourne Libraries pop-up will encourage attendees to expand on the discussion, with books related to the topic and guests available to borrow.
A second event in April, hosted by Russel Howcroft at the Edge, will explore Melbourne’s city-shaping Greenline Project, as well as other infrastructure projects across the world inspiring urban renewal. Lord Mayor Sally Capp will be among the panel members.
Free tickets for Melbourne Conversations: Love Song Dedications to Melbourne are limited and registration is essential. Tickets to future events will be released throughout the year.
