Melb Coffee Expo Slammed For Seeking Music Acts Without Pay

The Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE) has been hit with a wave of negative feedback for posting a Gumtree ad seeking to book musical acts without pay.

The drummer for Melbourne's The Badloves, Jeff Consi, shared the ad on his Facebook page on Monday.

"MICE is expecting around 10,000 attendees over the weekend so we're offering a musician/DJ area where you can perform, and as it is a voluntary opportunity you will be free to sell your own CDs throughout," the Gumtree post reads.

"MICE will also promote you in the lead up to the event via social media and through our website."

Consi commented, "Thanks but no thanks. Can only imagine the $ you are making and then pay a musician in 'exposure'".

The Facebook post resulted in many more people condemning MICE's Gumtree ad, given that tickets for the event start from $35.

Following the amount of attention the post received, MICE organisers commented on the thread shortly after.

"We consulted with a number of musicians before reaching out publicly to offer this opportunity," the response reads.

"We understand that music is a career choice, and know that not everyone will be interested. We had the option to play a Spotify playlist but wanted to give some local musicians trying to get their music in front of people the chance to do just that.

"While we respect everyone's opinions, we've had a huge response from people looking to get involved. We're looking forward to a great expo and promoting some fantastic local talent."

The Music has contacted MICE for further comment.

See the full thread below.