Who is Scout Hook?
I am a songwriter, musician, dancer, actor and visual artist living on Bunurong Country, Mornington Peninsula.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
If I had my time again, I would spend way less energy caring about what others think. So much opened up for me when I started trusting myself and stopped living to please others!
Who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by my friends and family. I have wonderful artistic people in my life – their passion, curiosity and dedication really excites me and I learn so much from them. My grandfather, Jeff Hook, was a brilliant artist and human – his legacy lives on through our family, I feel so supported by them and we love to create things together! This has definitely inspired me to share my creativity with others and has shaped many of my relationships.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I hope to always spread kindness and remind people to lead with open minds and open hearts. I am autistic and I am very passionate about accessibility. As a musician, it’s a goal of mine to create more welcoming and alternative spaces for people to experience live music.
Earlier this year, my partner, Sam, and I produced our first festival, JOY FEST!. We are often producing our own events, where there are flexible seating options, thoughtful lighting and sound design, people are invited to sketch/journal while listening and are free to move around the space as they need.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I’d love to see more of Australia, there is so much beauty to explore on our doorstep! A couple of years ago Sam and I took our dog, Winty, on a 4 month road trip along the east coast, following the whale migration.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
We love taking friends to our local beach, for a long walk, a swim or to take in a sunset. To me there is nothing better than being in nature with my loved ones!
What are you currently reading?
The House that Joy Built by Holly Ringland. She is one of my favourite writers!
What are you currently listening to?
The album Angel by Lizzy McAlpine. Also one of my favourite writers!
Happiness is?
Happiness to me is finding space to enjoy myself on all kinds of days through life’s ups and downs – through playing music, yoga, gardening, painting, kicking the footy, cooking and having meaningful conversations.
What does the future hold for you?
My partner and I form the duo SAMSCOUT – we just released our debut album Painted Lines. We’re looking forward to writing the next album! I hope to always live a creative life, full of time connecting with nature and making memories with friends and family.
Scout can be seen in Opera Australia’s production of The Trumpet of the Swan – which will be presented at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre from 20 – 22 November 2026. For more information, visit: www.opera.org.au for details.
Image: Scout Hook (supplied)