Born and raised in Sydney, Michael Sutherland has developed an acute sense of the city's collective psyche through nearly 20 years experience in the local entertainment industry.

In 1992, Michael graduated from the University of Sydney with a degree in English, History and Philosophy. After two years at law school, Michael realised his true passion lay elsewhere and left his studies to form the record label Beast Records.

In 1993, he signed the progressive Sydney group Skunkhour (of which he was the founding member) and guided the band to international success. Skunkhour were widely regarded as a uniquely Australian soul funk band and, under Michael's direction, achieved sales of albums and compilations in excess of 2 million records throughout the UK, Europe, Japan and the USA. Michael toured extensively with the group until they disbanded in 2002.

During this time, he also wrote music for the award winning film "2 Hands" staring Heath Ledger and Rose Byrne as well as the Logie nominated film "Ihaka" staring Temeura Morrison and Rebecca Gibney.

Michael has since turned his attention to the entertainment industry at large. He has run several successful film and television production companies, producing commercials for a range of globally recognised brands such as Nestle, McDonalds, Coca Cola, Mitsubishi, Kia and OK magazine.

In 2002 Michael designed, built and managed Maxitone Studios, a boutique music studio and postproduction house, producing albums for many of Australia's most successful recording artists and labels.

He has performed at and devised marketing programs for many of Sydney's prominent entertainment venues including the Tom Tom Club, The Freezer (Mister Goodbar), Kinselas, The Harbourside Brasserie, The Metro, Spectrum and The Hopetoun Hotel, as well as many corporate events such as Australian Fashion Week.

Michael's wealth of practical experience across all facets of the entertainment industry gives him a unique understanding of the natural relationship between hospitality and entertainment. He understands that the success of any venture, be it a new bar or a large scale event, rests on the ability to align the food, beverage and entertainment components to present a cohesive offering that affirms point of difference and ultimately enhances the customers' experience.