WAMCon Focus: Helen Marcou (Bakehouse Studios/SLAM)

Position/Title: Co-founder
How did you first become involved in the music business and how did you end up where you are today? I began as a young fan lining up all night for gig tickets at the age of 11 and then started booking gigs in high school.
Bakehouse Studios was founded by my partner in 1991, it's been a huge part of our lives for over 26 years, the activism came later but has set me on a different trajectory to the many roles I perform in the music and arts sector now, from advisory boards and panels, a peer reviewer, curator, event producer and sometime speaker.
What's been the biggest change in the music business you've seen over the past 12 months? Action on Safe Spaces in Music. My peers are walking the walk and committing to active change, particularly in regard to areas of safety against harassment and assault.
It's been over two years since I began work on the Victorian State Government and Music Industry Sexual Assault & Harassment of Women in Licensed Venues Taskforce and over that time the discussion and affirmative action from all areas of the industry have escalated. Artists, patrons, venue owners and staff all over the country (in fact globally) are coming together to mitigate incidents and provide respectful and inclusive scenes. 
What do you think will be the biggest issue affecting the music industry in the next 12 months and why? For me, it's gender representation and visibility. There are many other issues that could tip the balance of what's often described as the 'delicate ecosystem of the music industry' i.e. regulatory barriers, gentrification and rising land prices, housing affordability and cuts to arts funding, but I firmly believe that gender diversity will change the narrative of music and promote inclusivity, the line, 'You can't be what you can't see' rings true. 
What advice would you give young practitioners in your area starting out today? Embrace the ethos of DIY, start your own thing, build community, support other artists, go to gigs!
What's the secret to success in the music industry? I personally have longevity and independence in the industry; this came at the expense of financial security. I have a rich cultural life, but my measure of success doesn't include property, cash or cars. Success is seeing my community thrive. I don't have any real secrets, hit me up at the conference and I'll tell you everything I know!
What will you be primarily discussing during your appearance at the WAMCon? Luckily for the audience I'll be 'in conversion' with Paul Van Leishout, so no big monologues about regulatory reform. I'll talk about my activism, punk ethos and getting shit done.
What are you hoping that people will be able to learn from your panel/interview? That no matter what age you are or stage of life, if you are willing you can keep learning and changing.
What do you personally hope to take away from your time at WAMCon? I haven't been to Perth since I was seven, I'm looking forward to meeting the music peeps of WA and seeing your beautiful city.
Which acts are you most looking forward to checking out at WAMFest? Stella Donnelly, Ziggy Ramo.
When and where is your panel/interview? 4 Nov, Studio Underground (11am)