Background
In 2016, the North East CMA commissioned Craig Dent to write a book "Released from the Wild" with the Benambra community, celebrating their connections and history with local waterways, Lake Omeo and Morass Creek. As the 10th anniversary approaches in 2026, we have once again commissioned Craig Dent to transform this book into a 3D website. The original book includes two song lyrics written by Craig, which will be featured on the CMA's website. We are seeking a musician who can play either guitar or keyboard and compose music to accompany these lyrics. This individual will need to record the music with Craig in Wagga Wagga and perform at the website launch in Benambra with the community on 1 May 2026.
What services are we seeking
The successful person will be supported by CMA project staff and Craig Dent to work collaboratively and compose, record and perform the music.
Project services needed:
- Singer/ guitarist/keyboardist will be provided with 2 x lyrics and a voice note, which they can sing and play to.
- Compose and arrange music with book author to accompany the lyrics.
- Will have approximately 4 months to rehearse and record
- Be available and able to record at David Wilson Studios located at Wagga Wagga in January/February
- Be available and able to travel to Benambra to perform songs at the 3D Released from the Wild website launch on 1st May 2026
- Be 18+ in age
- Be reasonably local to North East Victoria and/or connected to the Benambra region
Skills AND experience required
We are seeking Expressions of Interest from people with the following skills:
- Knowledge and experience in music composition
- Ability to sing and perform
- Skilled guitarist or keyboardist
- Provide photo permission for visual promotion of the songs.
To submit an Expression of Interest, please email rebecca.damm@necma.vic.gov.au by the 2pm on Wednesday 30th July 2025 with:
A letter outlining:
-
- Your skills and experience relevant to those listed above
- An hourly rate exclusive of GST and a rate for travel
- A recent sample of your music/performance
- Confirmation of your ability in line with the dates outlined in this proposal
The first publishing rights for the will be with NECMA and not to be released before the project launch on 1st May 2026, unless directed by NECMA as an advance promotion strategy. Copyright on the songs remains with Craig Dent and the selected artist.
For further information please contact Rebecca Damm, Project Officer on 0429 785 766.
