COOLY Rocks On nostalgia festival hit Coolangatta over the long weekend, giving Southern Cross University student Ashley Dunn a flying start into a career in business and event management.

As part of a four-month internship, Miss Dunn was responsible for co-ordinating the Bendigo Bank Tugun stage featuring a mixture of professional and local school bands.

The Elanora student was in charge of identifying, booking and organising the bands and was also invited to travel to New Zealand to promote the festival.

She said the opportunity was invaluable.

“Organising a youth line-up at a music festival is a level of responsibility I've never had before and I'm so grateful for the opportunities that have been given to me through this internship,” Miss Dunn said.

“It's all about promoting young talent and creating a family- orientated atmosphere which is very satisfying to be involved in.

“I enjoy knowing how things work, not just the end product, which is why events management is such a passion for me.

“There are so many facets to it and great opportunities within the industry.

“I'm just trying to gain as much experience as I can in the industry before I graduate next year so that I will be equipped to take on other opportunities.”

The Cooly Rocks On festival ran from June 3-13.