When most people familiar with the concept think of relocalisation, they think of localised food production, local currencies, local energy, perhaps even local manufacturing. But what about supporting local music, local art and local culture? Of course, artists and musicians want to travel, and we want to see shows that come to our town from elsewhere - but those artists and musicians also need a healthy support system at home, from the venues and from the locals. With fossil fuel resources becoming less available and traveling to shows, performances and exhibitions becoming more expensive with the rising cost of petrol, we must rely on local talent to entertain and enrich us - and they must rely on us to support them.

Just as it's necessary to encourage local production of healthy food, we also have to encourage local production of good music and art! Art and music education needs to be taught consistently in schools (see these important stats about music education - it increases brainpower!) When budding artists and musicians are children, their passions need to be rewarded and encouraged by their families and friends. As they begin to produce and to perform they must have local venues willing to support them and an audience willing to receive them.

The other day I found a couple of Bundaberg bands on YouTube and on MySpace. A lot of the music may not be your style, but a lot of it does show some serious talent - and that's what's important! Last night Dean, Jacqui and I went to see Bundaberg musician Ryan Giles perform at the Bucca Hotel after I found him on YouTube and was mightily impressed. He didn't disappoint - he's extremely talented, played some great covers and some even better originals - including the one now terminally stuck in my head, "Invited". Check it out on YouTube and listen to some of his other tracks on his MySpace page.

I've been thinking lately that perhaps starting a SustainaBundy radio show on one of Bundaberg's community radio stations would be a good use of my skills from my "previous life" - it could include interviews and discussions of sustainability, and a showcase for local musicians. This merits further exploration.