Music industry professional amplifying Dungog’s creative scene Dungog Shire Dungog Shire News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - January 9, 2025 Musician Ben Steer. BEN Steer, a seasoned music industry professional with an impressive career spanning decades, is injecting new energy into Dungog’s vibrant cultural community. With a lifetime in the music business, Ben’s experience encompasses roles in marketing, promotion, and A&R for all the major record labels. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au Ben’s career highlights include years working with legendary Australian band INXS and running his own management company, guiding acts across genres from hip-hop to country. Under his management, these artists sold over 10 million records, a testament to his talent and dedication. As a trailblazer, Ben co-founded Australia’s first music licensing business, Mana Music, responsible for placing iconic Australian tracks in films like Two Hands and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Now based in Dungog, Ben splits his time between teaching Entertainment Business Management at JMC Academy in Sydney and running Continuous Music, his thriving music consultancy business. His expertise is also enriching Dungog’s creative landscape. Since settling in the area, Ben has been booking and promoting musical acts for The Royal Hotel and curating performances at The James Theatre. Recent shows have included acclaimed acts like The Song Company, flutist Jane Rutter, conductor Guy Noble, and opera star Teddy Tahu Rhodes. “What I love about Dungog is the people,” Ben shared. “We have a high concentration of creatives and culturally-minded individuals living and moving here. “I’m excited about the various collaborations and creative opportunities that can happen in 2025.” Ben’s vision for Dungog aligns with the town’s growing reputation as a hub for the arts. With his wealth of industry knowledge and passion for fostering local talent, Ben Steer is set to play a key role in shaping the town’s musical and cultural future. By Shannon BENTON Ben with Andrew Farriss from INXS.