John Collins, former bassist of the rock band Powderfinger, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours List.
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Recognised for his “significant service to the arts through music, and to the community,” Collins is among the 737 honourees announced by Governor-General David Hurley last Sunday.
After Powderfinger disbanded in 2010, Collins embarked on a new chapter, channelling his passion for music into the live music scene by becoming a venue owner. His transition from performing on stage to fostering live music environments has cemented his influence in the Australian music industry beyond his time with the band.
The Triffid and Fortitude Valley Music Hall: Cultivating Brisbane’s Music Scene
John Collins co-owns two of Brisbane’s premier music venues: The Triffid in Newstead and The Fortitude Valley Music Hall.
The Triffid, opened in 2014, is the result of a collaboration between Collins, Powderfinger’s long-time manager Paul Piticco, and Jessica Ducrou, co-founder of Secret Sounds, which oversees major festivals like Splendour in the Grass and Falls Festival.
Situated in a World War II hangar, The Triffid is an 800-capacity venue that has become a beloved spot for music lovers and performers alike. The venue’s creation was driven by a desire to offer a dedicated space for live music and to support the growth of local talent.
The success of The Triffid led Collins and his partners to pursue an even more ambitious project. The Fortitude Valley Music Hall, opened in 2019, is now Australia’s largest ballroom/theatre-style venue, boasting a standing capacity of 3,000 and a seated capacity of 1,200. This state-of-the-art venue fills a significant void in Brisbane, following the demolition of the city’s Festival Hall in 2003. The Fortitude Music Hall aims to attract top-tier touring acts, enhancing the city’s appeal as a major destination for live music.
Both The Triffid and Fortitude Valley Music Hall reflect his vision of creating spaces that not only showcase live performances but also foster a sense of community. These venues have quickly become cornerstones of Brisbane’s entertainment landscape, offering diverse line-ups that appeal to a wide range of musical tastes.
Read: Fortitude Valley Poised to Become a Global Nightlife Hotspot Under New Queensland Initiative
Collins’ journey from rock star to respected venue owner highlights his adaptability and dedication to the arts. His recognition in the King’s Birthday Honours List underscores the significant impact he has had on the Australian music industry and the broader community. Through his efforts, he continues to support and promote music, ensuring that Brisbane remains a vibrant hub for artists and fans alike.
His story is one of transformation, passion, and an unwavering commitment to the arts, making his recognition as a Member of the Order of Australia well-deserved.
Published 13-June-2024
