Rock the Vote with Shihad

Mon 23rd Oct, 2006 in Features

Although sounding a little weary after a week of solid commitments including playing a gig at Thank God it’s Over at Sydney’s Myer Bowl; bandmate Karl Kippenberger’s (bassist) BBQ and a ‘salute to beer’ at a 40th birthday party, Shihad frontman Jon Toogood is in good spirits about the upcoming gig for  ’Rock the Vote’.

The huge rock concert at the RNA Showgrounds to take place on Saturday November 18 has an agenda to encourage and educate 18-24 year olds to take part in the political process and enrol to vote.

For 11 hours, punters will be treated to some of the best bands and comedians from Australia and New Zealand, encouraged to rock out whilst learning some essential information about the new Industrial Relations laws; including how they affect them, their lives and as future leaders of this country.  

Often known for political statements within his lyrics, Toogood voices his opinion on the government and the ever present question of Shihad being known as a political band.

“We’re a band who gives a shit about who controls the country.” Toogood remarks.

“John Howard and Peter Costello are people we wouldn’t party with. The old guard is so sold on the catalystic economy that they rely on the empathy of the youth to vote them in.

“These are the people that will represent them and sometimes you don’t like either party member but kids need to be educated on this and stir up more keen interest, they need to say ‘hey I do give a shit about the world’.”

Earlier this year, the Australian Federal Government passed the Electoral and Referendum Amendment (Electoral Integrity and Other Measures) Bill 2006, changing the electoral enrolment system. Where Australian citizens previously had a week to enroll or change their address details after the announcement of an election, the electoral roll now closes on the day the writ is issued, which for the past two elections has been the day following the election announcement.

One of the aims of Rock the Vote is to encourage young people to enrol to vote. punters can add their names to the electoral roll whilst strolling the grounds between sets. Eager rockers can talk to the ‘Your Rights at Work’ folks that will be on site to educate people on the Industrial Relations Laws, how they relate to them and answer any questions. The Federal Government’s recent announcement of the new Industrial Relations Laws will directly affect the youth of Australia more than any other demographic.

Jon Toogood summed up Rock the Vote’s central theme thus:”If you have the right to vote you should voice it.”

And you can voice your right to vote by supporting Rock the Vote’s cause on Saturday November 18 at the RNA Showground’s. Tickets now $45 + booking fee. Available from: Rockinghorse; Skinnys; Butterbeats (City & Valley); Sunflower Music (Gold Coast); Mosh Pit (Sunshine Coast), purchase online at www.etix.com.au.

With Peter Garrett AM MP, Midnight Oil frontman turned labor member for Kingsford Smith addressing the audience; served up with great MCs Meshel Laurie and Jabba, plus the boys from The Chaser’s War on Everything keeping everyone on their toes and a great line up of bands including: You am I Spiderbait, Shihad, the Butterfly Effect, Lyrics born, Pigeon John, Soma Rasa, resin Dogs, Ace, DJs Nick Toth  and Sampology , you’re in for one heck of a ride!