The Stag & Hunter Hotel’s, 90s-grunge inspired Temple of the Stag initiative recently raised $1,500
for mental health organisation Listen Up Music.
Hosted by local musician Emily Smith, the themed music night has been taking centre stage at the
Mayfield live music venue for almost two years, encouraging both established and up-and-coming
artists to hone their skills, try out new music, and be part of an ever-growing community of like-minded
people.
“On Sunday, 16 June we held an MTV Unplugged inspired Temple of the Stag night which included
amazing local original artists Anna Weatherup, Bob Corbett, and Dave Wells who performed a mix of
their favourite 90s tunes,” Smith said.
“Our house band, The Stag Temple Pilots, also performed and we ticketed the event with all proceeds
going to Listen Up Music.”
Smith said Listen Up Music, chaired by local folk singer Amy Vee was chosen as the beneficiary of the event for its commitment to empowering musicians to practise positive mental health, as well as events and programs such as The Songwriting Prize - Australia’s only dedicated mental health songwriting competition, Torch Fest, the Pick-Me-Up Podcast, and Mental Health Music Course.
“The focus on mental health aligned well with the MTV Unplugged theme and because we’re fortunate to have built such a strong community around Temple of the Stag, we wanted to do something to give back” -Emily Smith.
Stag and Hunter Hotelier Mick Starkey said he was extremely proud of both the Temple of the Stag
initiative and the fundraising event.
“The Stag Temple Pilots are an awesome house band. They’re genuinely so talented and for
musicians to have the opportunity to regularly get up and play with them, whether it’s to improve their
craft or simply test out new songs, is something that’s incredibly well received and important I think for
the future of Newcastle’s live music industry.
“There’s a full gamut of people who, for a variety of reasons, have decided to contribute and be a part
of this community and it’s fantastic to see.
“If that then lends itself to giving back and supporting mental health organisations like Listen Up
Music, which these days provides services that are maybe more important than ever before, then
that’s even better.”
Temple of the Stag is held every second Monday night at The Stag & Hunter Hotel, Mayfield from
8pm.
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