Ella Hooper, Tania Doko & Kate Ceberano Spearhead The Inaugural Roar Fest, Celebrating Women In Music

Next March will see rackeTT Collective presenting the inaugural Roar Fest, celebrating women in music across St Kilda/Boonwurrung Country.

Announced today for March 8th – 9th 2025, the event will coincide with global celebrations of International Women’s Day as it shines a spotlight on women in the Australian music industry.

Put together with the intent of seeing “more women on and off the stage”, Roar Fest goes beyond the notion of a simple festival, serving instead as a movement which is designed to “connect, celebrate and amplify voices through music, art and meaningful connections”.

Ultimately, it’s a collaborative platform for both established and emerging artists to work together, to foster creativity, representation, and growth, while above all ensuring that women have their voices heard.

Roar Fest have also announced three ROAR Ambassadors for the event, with Kate Ceberano, Tania Doko of Bachelor Girl, and Ella Hooper of Killing Heidi lending their talents and insights to the event – on and off the stage.

“It has always been my intention as an artist, to carve a path for other women to walk,” explains Ceberano. “This festival is a way for women in music to share our songs, discuss the work behind the music, share wisdom and stories of touring and performing. On the bill are friends, family and musicians who I admire and love.”

The full lineup for Roar Fest will be detailed in the new year, but already organisers have revealed the rundown of two headline events which will bookend the affair.

On Saturday, March 8th, Women On The Bay will take place at St Kilda’s George Lane, featuring an impressive lineup of artists – including Kathleen Halloran, Charlie Needs Braces, Ruby Mae, Charlie Lane, and Wild Gloriosa – each performing their own sets.

Tickets to this show are on sale now, but punters are urged to act quick given how limited they are.

The following day, on Sunday, March 9th, the festival will wrap up with a headline concert at the National Theatre.

Hosted by Ella Hooper, the show will feature Kate Ceberano, Tania Doko, soul artist WILSN, ARIA Award-winning Gabriella Cilmi, and rising star Gypsy Lee, with a Collarts showcase opening the event. Tickets for the headline concert are also on sale now.

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“ROAR represents the power of the female voice — its ability to break barriers, challenge norms, and create new possibilities,” says Doko. “It is a festival that will bridge the gap between the current state of the industry and a future where women enjoy equality and acknowledgement for their vital contributions.

“The kind of future where female creatives can succeed in all areas of the music industry makes for a thriving community for everyone.”

“There’s been a lot of talk but not a lot of action to address the lack of women on festivals,” adds Hooper. “This festival IS the action! It also celebrates several eras, genres and generations, making it unique in its appeal. You can come with your girls, your mum or your aunties, and your brothers and uncles! All are welcome.

“The fact its women led behind the scenes is unique and very rare. Not to mention female crew and industry workers manning the sound and lights. ROAR is walking the talk!”

Alongside the aforementioned events, Roar Fest will also feature an In Conversation event with Ceberano, Hooper, and Doko; Grassroots Sessions panels for emerging artist and industry workers; Women in Music Photo Exhibition; and the Inaugural Women in Music St Kilda guided walking tours.

Full details for the currently-announced events are available now via the official Roar Fest website.