Original Band Fundraiser

A STELLAR line-up of original bands from Newcastle will come together in the name of charity this weekend at ROCKIN' ROSS DAY '04. Rockin' Ross Day is the brainchild of a group of Newcastle bands THE BLUE STAIN CIRCUS and SHOESHINE who devised the annual show to raise money for the CYSTIC FIBROSIS FOUNDATION. One of the event's organisers, TRENT SOMMERFIELD, said the event was developed to raise awareness about cystic fibrosis and celebrate the memory of a close friend who died of the disease.

``This is the third year we have run the day as a fund-raiser in memory Ross MacDonald,'' Sommerfield said.

``Ross lost his fight with cystic fibrosis three years ago.

``A few of his mates, including myself, play in various original bands around Newcastle and we decided to put on a day of bands to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.'' Rockin' Ross Day will return to the WICKHAM PARK HOTEL on Saturday, May 1 for a 12-hour concert. Bands performing include The Blue Stain Circus, Shoeshine, MICKYFIN, RUNNING WITH SCISSORS, IONIC, THE CHEMICAL, COMMON SOUND THEORY, OLD SOUND CENTRAL, THE PINTS, PETAR, BEYOND THE TREELINE and more.

Entry is $5 and all proceeds will go to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Rockin' Ross Day `04 starts at noon.