The rackeTT Collective has announced the launch of ROAR FEST, a two-day festival dedicated to celebrating women in music, set to take place across St Kilda on 8 and 9 March 2025.
Timed to coincide with International Women’s Day, the festival aims to spotlight women’s contributions to the Australian music industry, fostering community, creativity, and representation both on and off the stage.
With the theme “more women on and off the stage,” ROAR FEST goes beyond being a music festival—it is a movement designed to amplify the voices of women in music, while creating a platform for collaboration and growth. Featuring over 40 performances, insightful panel discussions, student placements, and networking opportunities, the event offers something for every attendee.
ROAR FEST 2025
Saturday, 8 March 2025
Women on the Bay at George Lane, St Kilda
Featuring Kathleen Halloran, Charlie Needs Braces, Ruby Mae, Charlie Lane, and Wild Gloriosa
Tickets: Available now
Sunday, 9 March 2025
Concert Closer at National Theatre, St Kilda
Featuring Kate Ceberano, Tania Doko, WILSN, Gabriella Cilmi, and Gypsy Lee
Hosted by Ella Hooper
Tickets: Available now via Oztix.
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Festival highlights
The festival kicks off on Saturday, 8 March, with Women on the Bay, a showcase of emerging artists at George Lane in St Kilda. Performers include Kathleen Halloran, Charlie Needs Braces, Ruby Mae, Charlie Lane, and Wild Gloriosa, each delivering their own set in an intimate venue.
On Sunday, 9 March, the festival wraps up with a headline concert at the historic National Theatre. Hosted by ROAR Ambassador Ella Hooper, the event features an exceptional lineup of five artists spanning five decades:
- Kate Ceberano
- Tania Doko
- WILSN
- Gabriella Cilmi
- Gypsy Lee
The National Theatre foyer stage will also showcase performances by live music students from Collarts, ROAR FEST’s official education partner.
Beyond the music
In addition to the performances, ROAR FEST offers a variety of activities celebrating women in music, including:
- In Conversation Panel with ROAR Ambassadors Kate Ceberano, Ella Hooper, and Tania Doko (Sunday, 9 March).
- Grassroots Sessions panels for emerging artists and industry workers, presented by Collarts and PPCA (Saturday, 8 March).
- Women in Music Photo Exhibition presented by the City of Port Phillip.
- Women in Music St Kilda Guided Walking Tours, celebrating the history of women in music across the area.
- Live and local showcases, street buskers, and performances throughout St Kilda’s venues, in partnership with the Acland Street Village and Fitzroy Street Business Associations.
ROAR Ambassador Tania Doko said, “ROAR represents the power of the female voice—its ability to break barriers, challenge norms, and create new possibilities. It is a festival that will bridge the gap between the current state of the industry and a future where women enjoy equality and acknowledgment for their vital contributions.”
For more information, visit roarfest.com.au.
