Renate Iorio speaks out for Great Australian Wave

For the attention of Lynne Kosky,

I am writing to convey my utter dissappointment and dismay over the decision made yesterday 25/6 to reverse the funding granted by your department to Steve Iorio of Blindbeatroot for The Great Australian Wave showcase at Popkomm. The funding of $10,000 dollars which was approved by the council was for VicRocks Strategic Partnership Program.

Although Popkomm was cancelled last weekend the Aussie showcase will go on!! Too many artists have already invested their time and hard earned dollars to make the trip to Europe to perform at this showcase.

Part of the guidelines for this grant “A subsequent and more detailed application will then be requested.” Was never requested. As the circumstances changed this should have been explored and Steve an myself should have had the opportunity to address the board before another decision was reached.
I believe that the board has made an uniformed decision. Vic Rocks believes it is too much risk now but have come to this decision without proper discussions with the event organisers Steve Iorio and myself.
Other people have organised showcases over the past few years and have received funding on more than one occassion when their track record was less than stellar.
We have proven ourselves over the past four years, with no funding, and have had great results from artists involved in what we do.
We have industry support in Germany for this showcase outside of Popkomm, which at the end of the day is what it is all about, "Bringing the Australian artists to the Industry"
I am not sure if you are aware of Popkomm or what it does or if in fact what we as BlindBeatroot do for Australian bands. I would like the opportunity to meet with you to explain the situation in full and see if this can be resolved.
Sincerely,
Renate Iorio
Blindbeatroot
www.blindbeatroot.com
www.thegreataustralianwave.com