WAM Elects New President And Board Members

Peak West Australian music industry body WAM – which champions WA music through initiatives such as the WAM Festival, advocacy programs and the celebrated annual WAM Awards – have announced the election of a new board, at their recent Annual General Meeting.

Leading the new field of directors as President is 303LOWE managing director Al Taylor, replacing the outgoing Andrew Zell. With years of experience behind him as a successful advertiser, award-winning communications strategist, arts advocate, and drummer, Taylor brings a great deal of knowledge and passion to the position, which – like all WAM board spots – is a voluntary undertaking.

“West Australian contemporary music is really leading the charge in Australia, as evidenced by the last ARIA Awards,” Taylor said in a statement.

“Its contribution to the state both culturally and economically is significant and undeniable. It is fantastic to have the opportunity to work alongside [WAM CEO] Mike [Harris] and lead the WAM Board as we move into a new era, and to contribute to elevating the West Australian music industry to a whole new level – one that is commensurate to its contribution to WA and the WAM brand.”

The Lollybox Studio owner and producer Noah Shilkin – formerly of cult New Zealand band Mother Goose – will step into Taylor's former role as vice-president. Steve McCabe, the restructuring services director at KPMG, stays on as Treasurer, while RedRock Music creator and band manager Bel Skinner likewise will remain Secretary.

New board members include Monster Management's Jake Snell and Teledex director Stefan Caramia, joining WAM lifetime member David Hyams and Freehills lawyer Simon Reed.

Check the WAM website for more information about the body's mission, events and initiatives.