Jess Teesdale (Bass, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

In a world where many of us are feeling increasingly lost, overwhelmed or disheartened, I want to take a moment this evening to reflect on something that has brought real joy, connection and hope to my local community. Over the past three weekends, I've had the absolute pleasure of seeing firsthand how music brings people together—how it creates happiness, builds memories and reminds us of our shared humanity. In those moments, standing among thousands of people, you can feel the weight lift—even if just for a little while.

Without a doubt, Northern Tasmania has absolutely been the best place to be over the past month. It began with a one-off world-class performance by the Foo Fighters, supported by local and Australian artists, drawing people from across the state and beyond. The following weekend saw Festivale light up Launceston, with an incredible line-up featuring artists such as Thelma Plum, Jess Mauboy, Boy and Bear, British India and Grinspoon. Just this past weekend, Party in the Paddock delivered yet another epic celebration of live music headlined by major national and international acts alongside many of Tasmania's own artists. On top of that, Music in the Park continues each Sunday in Launceston, giving families and friends a space to gather, unwind and ease into the week ahead.

These events do not happen by accident. We've all heard how challenging it is and how hard it has become to run major events in a post-COVID world. Rising costs, logistical hurdles and uncertainty have made it harder than ever for organisers, artists and crews to keep live music alive. Governments at all levels have stepped in to support the arts sector—not always in the same way or for the same events, but with a shared understanding that these moments matter. The federal government provided $200,000 to Party in the Paddock to ensure accessibility was done properly so that people of all abilities could enjoy the event. I've also been told repeatedly how critical the Revive Live grants have been in helping our arts and music industry stay afloat during some of the most challenging times it has ever faced.

This support isn't just about keeping events on a calendar; it is about what these moments create. Economically, the impact on Northern Tasmania has been undeniable. Accommodation has sold out. Restaurants, cafes and local producers have seen increased demand. Tourists have not just visited but stayed, explored and invested in our local community. These events have supported jobs, small businesses and regional growth. Culturally, they've also sent a powerful message, particularly to young Tasmanians—that a career in music and the arts is still tough but possible, and that creative talent does not have to leave the state to be recognised or valued. At Party in the Paddock alone, around half the artists in the line-up were Tasmanian. That matters. It shows confidence in local talent and creates pathways for the next generation of musicians, technicians and creatives.

Socially, the benefits are harder to measure but just as important. Over the past few weeks I have seen strangers become friends, old mates reconnect, families dance together and communities share moments of laughter and joy. At a time when isolation and disconnection are common, these experiences remind us that we belong to something bigger.

I take this opportunity to thank Tasmania's arts community. It is a small but deeply passionate group of people who often seem to wear two, three or sometimes even more hats across multiple organisations. They do it not for recognition but because they believe in the power of art, music and storytelling to bring people together. And let me say this clearly: we punch well above our weight in Tasmania when it comes to the arts.

To our musicians, event organisers, volunteers, technicians and creatives: I want you to know that I see you, I value the work you do and I recognise the commitment you show—often behind the scenes, often unpaid—and the enormous contribution you make to our community in bringing our community together. To Tasmania's art community: I back you. Thank you for what you give, and thank you for the joy you bring to so many.

See this speech in context