Interview by Angus Ingram
Q: Cherie, you’ve been with Kindred Studios for nearly a decade. Can you tell us about your journey into the role and how your background has shaped your work in the music industry?
A: My background is actually in business administration and operations management within the industrial and health sectors. At first glance, that might not seem connected to the music industry, but those commercial skills—managing operations, strategy, and people—have been invaluable in running Kindred Studios. Over the last 10 years, I’ve been able to apply that knowledge to a creative environment, facilitating tenancies and programs for artists, producers, and even peak industry organisations like Support Act and Songlines. It’s been about creating spaces where creativity and business can thrive together.
Q: What sets Kindred Studios apart as a creative hub in Melbourne’s West?
A: Kindred is really unique. We’re the largest music hub in Melbourne’s West, with the only purpose-built bandroom, but it’s more than just music. We house rehearsal & podcast studios, film and photography spaces, dance studios, production suites, tenancies, and of course our bandroom, private function and performance spaces. The other thing that sets us apart is our staff and the community within the team at Kindred. Accommodating and friendly staff is really important in creating a safe and inclusive environment at our events and all the offerings at Kindred Studios.
Q: There’s been quite a change to the venue’s access and surroundings over the past few years, how’s that progressing?
A: There’s been a few upgrades, including improvements to the carpark closest to Kindred, on Cowper Street, which has just been completed, plus the new shared bike path that will connect us to the CBD, set to open by the end of the year. We’re super relieved that parking and access for bands & larger events is all getting back to normal. Kindred has expansion plans to double in size soon, with some brand new Studios & Tenancies, so the improved infrastructure will support that.
Q: You’re also deeply involved in advocacy and community work, serving on multiple panels and boards. Why is that side of your role so important?
A: Most of us recognise how important music is…having a bad day, a song can turn it around in an instant, so I want to support the future of that for creators & listeners. Venues are expensive to run and we’re in a changing environment, socially & economically, so I’m heavily involved in working on solutions to keep the industry sustainable into the future. My roles with Music Victoria’s Live Music Venues Advisory Panel, Yarraville & Footscray Traders Associations, and council advisory boards allow me to advocate for reforms and push for more live music activation across Melbourne’s West and beyond.
Q: Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of Kindred Studios and your role in the music industry?
A: I’m really excited about continuing to grow the venue as a destination for both emerging and established artists, and the local community. I also want to keep developing & hosting programs that remove barriers for artists and audiences. The music industry is constantly evolving, and being able to play a role in shaping that future—especially here in the West—is something I’m really passionate about.
Q: Any last words
A: I’m very proud of Kindred Studios, its value in the music industry and in particular the enormous variety of activations we deliver to the community. I’m also extremely grateful for everyone’s support, our wonderful tenants, clients & punters, many who are now friends to our lovely team. There is a vibe here that can’t be explained until you walk in the door. Living and growing up in the West, experiencing the limited access to live music here, I aim to keep championing our incredible original, local artists and put on as many shows, to as many people as possible, close to home.
You can follow our socials via @kindredbandroom and @kindredstudios or checkout our website https://kindredstudios.com.au/
