Who I am and what brought me to Eastside

Hi there! I’m Jesse and it’s my first day volunteering here at Eastside. I’m originally from Adelaide but have settled into Sydney as my new home. I do regular volunteering for environmental causes and coach basketball at an inclusive community club. I joined Eastside because radio is very important to me with feeling connected to a community and a city. There’s something special about the comfort that comes with listening to your favourite radio show every day or every week, getting to know the presenter and feeling that sense of familiarity while also being excited at the opportunity to discover new music. I’m also passionate about building stronger communities and more liveable cities so I enjoy talk-based programs that discuss ideas for how to improve various aspects of the city, like Eastside’s The Sydneyist.

Music, for me, enhances every moment and every mood. Whether it’s listening to some classic rock to lift my energy levels or block out unpleasant noise, or it’s enjoying some soothing folk music to get into a peaceful state of mind, music is there whenever you or I need it, and there’s a song and an artist for any occasion. Other genres that I love include disco, alternative and indie pop/rock

Seeing live music is one of the true joys in life and I try to go to concerts regularly. One of my most memorable moments since moving to Sydney was seeing local legends Boy & Bear at the Sydney Opera House steps in December last year.

The way that live music brings people together and creates a shared experience never ceases to amaze. Feeling one with the crowd is a precious feeling. Likewise, choirs showcase the special ability of music to connect us, and whenever I’m feeling a bit disconnected, I open YouTube and listen to this incredible choir. This is one of my favourites: