Sound Check
Sound Check connects established performers with young talent, offering valuable insights, experience and exposure.
Sound Check 2025
Sound Check, held on the 7th of February at Pier 97 Wickham, was an unforgettable night that brought together both established performers and talented young musicians from across the region, all in support of the Grow a Star program
The evening was headlined by Magpie Diaries, the celebrated songwriting project of local legend Matt ‘Magpie’ Johnston. Originally conceived in 2008 as a way to process loss, the project has since blossomed into a full-fledged band with an impressive catalogue of music. Their signature blend of folk, soul, country, and rock—showcased in standout tracks like Go Anywhere (2021) and Old Road (2024)—draws inspiration from icons such as Neil Young, Grateful Dead, Willie Nelson, and Van Morrison.
Adding to the magic, the audience was treated to a surprise set by acclaimed singer-songwriter Melody Pool. Her soulful lyrics and mesmerising vocals captivated the crowd,
The lineup also featured the 17-year-old Symphony Rain whose impressive vocals and original compositions showcased her emerging talent.
The night also shone a spotlight on three talented young musicians from the Grow a Star program: Johnathan Villiers, Alex Green, and Ash McVea-Moore.
More about these young musicians below—and be sure to check out some of the photos from Sound Check 2025!
Thank you sponsors and guests
The inaugural Sound Check event was made possible by the generous support of sponsors:
Maestro Sponsor:
Community Business Bureau (CBB Salary Packaging)
Melody Sponsor:
Harmony Sponsors:
Jones Lang LaSalle and Cants Building and Construction
Thanks to the generosity of attendees and sponsors, $10,000 was raised to support Grow a Star.
These funds will help young people from disadvantaged backgrounds overcome financial and generational barriers, allowing them to pursue their academic, sporting, and artistic aspirations.
Alex Green
Johnathan Villiers
Ash McVea-Moore
The Grow a Star Scholarship, sponsored by CBB Salary Packaging is helping Alex with tuition fees, competition performance and equipment costs.
Alex has been receiving weekly music lessons from the Riffpad Academy of Music and is a participant of the SHINE Program at school. She wants to study music at university and is hopeful of exploring the many opportunities that may come from this.
Alex also has ambitions to perform at festivals and receive music mentorship.
Ash McVea-Moore
Johnathan Villiers
Ash McVea-Moore
Ash has dreams of becoming a musician, with a particular focus on sound production.
The Grow a Star Scholarship is providing invaluable support for Ash by covering lesson fees at the Grow Studio in Somersby, as well as assisting with performance, equipment, and recording costs.
The scholarship will also enable Ash to purchase a guitar amplifier, so she can continue to develop her skills and pursue her passion for music.
Johnathan Villiers
Johnathan Villiers
Johnathan Villiers
Johnathan has a passion for music and is mostly self-taught, after receiving vocal lessons the Central Coast Music Factory a couple of years ago.
The Grow a Star Scholarship is helping Johnathon with specialised lessons, performance, and equipment costs.
Johnathan has participated in school music events, has busked at local shopping centres, and performed at local community events for organisations such as Barang Regional Alliance, Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services and Mingaletta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corp.
Sound Check Photo Gallery
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