Winners

Saint Ergo is a cinematic modern-contemporary music project led by Joanna, blending R&B with baroque pop. The self-composed and produced music explores themes of gender, sexuality, power imbalance, and human emotion. Saint Ergo’s songs embody deep lyricism and emotional depth, creating a unique and impactful sonic experience.

Wild Gloriosa, a Geelong native with South Indian roots and a Singaporean upbringing, uses her soul music to convey powerful messages. Having supported artists like Jessica Mauboy and Telenova, she continues to make her mark in the music industry, blending community connection with a passion for songwriting.

Uncle Selwyn was lead guitarist in No Fixed Address from 1983. It was here, and later in Coloured Stone, he co-wrote some of the classics of Aboriginal rock music. Selwyn settled down in the mid-Eighties to raise his family of five boys and two girls (his sons Tjimba and Narjic currently perform as Yung Warriors, and his daughters are painting like their mother, the renowned painter Gabriella Possum). Throughout the ’90s, Selwyn revived his musical career with Kutcha Edwards and Grant Hansen in Blackfire, and is currently writing, recording and performing in Coloured Stone.

Good Morning, an indie duo from Melbourne, have built a global following with their DIY approach and heartfelt music. Their lo-fi, understated sound has resonated with millions of listeners worldwide, blending melancholic melodies with introspective lyrics, and earning them a place in the global indie music scene.

Melbourne-based artist Gregor released Satanic Lullabies, his deepest and darkest album, blending moments of musical beauty with harsh soundscapes. Known for his introspective themes and experimental sound, Gregor’s work has been featured by major outlets, and he continues to captivate audiences with his eclectic live performances, both solo and with a band.

Audrey Powne is a Melbourne-based artist, producer, and multi-instrumentalist pushing boundaries in the future jazz and soul genres. Recognized for her technical skills and creative inventiveness, she’s garnered international attention and performs globally in visionary musical circles, cementing her place as a force in the modern music landscape.

DJ PGZ is a Gunai/Kurnai and Yorta Yorta artist known for his genre-bending DJ sets that explore underground club sounds. His work spans DJing, production, radio, and filmmaking, with a passion for supporting Black and Brown producers. DJ PGZ is a rising star in the Australian music scene with exciting projects ahead.

Lauren Coutts, aka Azura, is a Melbourne-based producer and a key member of the pop trio Blusher. After gaining attention with their debut release Softly Spoken, Blusher signed with Atlantic Records. Lauren’s innovative production and international touring have established her as a rising star in the pop music landscape.

Cheryl Durongpisitkul, a saxophonist and composer, blends genres like classical, hip-hop, and indie rock in her music. A national touring artist and 2024 Apra Art Music Award finalist, Cheryl has received multiple commissions for orchestral and ensemble works, showcasing her versatility and creativity as a leading Australian composer.

RVG, led by Romy Vager, is an Australian indie rock band known for blending post-punk, new wave, and classic rock influences. Their emotive lyrics and raw performances have garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase both in Australia and internationally, with standout albums like A Quality of Mercy and Feral.

ZÖJ is an experimental cross-cultural music duo from Australia, consisting of Gelareh Pour on Kamancheh, Voice, and Qeychak, and Brian O’Dwyer on drum kit and percussion.

Since 1980, St Kilda Festival has become Australia’s largest free music festival, supporting local musicians and promoting tourism. Its diverse programming spans multiple stages, showcasing Australian talent while fostering community engagement. The First People’s Day celebrates First Nations culture, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to social inclusion and cultural recognition.

The Corner Hotel is a historic Melbourne music venue known for hosting diverse local, national, and international artists. The venue champions inclusivity, community radio, and accessibility, while supporting emerging talent. With over 20 years of programming, it remains a beloved spot for music lovers and artists alike.

The Sound Doctor is a not-for-profit initiative founded by Dr. David Corbet, offering intimate live performances in Anglesea’s 1950s Memorial Hall. This unique music series brings well-known artists to regional Victoria, providing locals with world-class concerts and fostering community engagement through a shared love of live music.

Brothers Aidan and Rhett McLaren are behind The Hills Are Alive music festival, known for its inclusive, innovative programming and safe festival environments. With over a decade of experience, they’ve expanded to manage THAA Records and offer artist management services, shaping the Australian music festival landscape.

Northcote Social Club has been a cornerstone of Melbourne’s music scene since 2004, with a strong focus on diverse programming and community support. Hosting over 200 shows annually, the venue champions emerging and established artists, sustainability, and inclusivity, creating a vibrant space for creativity and connection in the local scene.

Torquay Hotel, located on Victoria’s Surf Coast, hosts over 100 ticketed live performances annually. Offering an eclectic mix of local and international acts, the venue transforms from a quiet bar to a bustling band room, fostering community connection through music and providing memorable experiences for both old and new patrons.

Kerri Simpson formed a blues/rock trio Opelousas in 2018 with Ali and Shorty, blending Ali’s raw electric guitar and Kerri’s vision for a powerful sound. Together, they create a swampy, foreboding sound influenced by their previous work, offering a fusion of blues, rock, and soulful intensity.

Hana & Jessie-Lee’s Bad Habits fuse rock n roll swagger with alt-country twang. Known for Hana’s powerful vocals and Jessie-Lee’s jangly guitar lines, they create a magnetic, hook-laden sound. Their new album, “Say What You Mean,” adds to their energetic performances and growing popularity.

Multi-instrumentalists Evan Davies and Mischa Herman explore Celtic and traditional music through intricate arrangements of flute, accordion, guitar, whistles, and banjo. Their unique compositions blend respect for tradition with fresh, original sounds, creating a diverse and striking auditory experience that pushes genre boundaries.

Hand to Earth, an ensemble led by vocalists Daniel Wilfred and Sunny Kim, merges Yolngu Manikay songs from North East Arnhem Land with modern minimalism. Their ARIA-nominated debut album blends Daniel’s ancient songs with Sunny’s ethereal vocals, accompanied by didgeridoo, trumpet, and clarinet in a stunning musical fusion.

Hybrid Man is an electronic music duo from Naarm, combining ambient soundscapes with IDM, 90s trance, and techno. Their live sets blend introspective moments with euphoric electronica, creating an immersive experience. Formed in 2018, they draw from dance music history to craft their unique sonic world.

Melbourne-based Pizza Death fuses thrash, crossover, and 80s hardcore punk in songs about pizza and death. Their album, Reign of the Anticrust, gained international cult status, topping Coretex Records charts and selling out shows. The band delivers a chaotic, tongue-in-cheek live experience that captivates fans worldwide.

Jordan Dennis, known for his rapid-fire lyrics, and JUJO, a boundary-defying beatmaker, form an explosive creative duo. Together, their musical synergy produces genre-defying, dynamic tracks, blending rubbery flows with ethereal beats. Their collaborations deliver a unique sound that transcends musical norms and resonates with audiences.

Michelle Nicolle is an acclaimed Australian jazz vocalist and band leader known for her masterful improvisation and emotional depth. Winner of prestigious awards, her career spans national and international recognition. Nicolle’s performances are defined by her technical prowess and ability to convey the emotional core of a song.

Gretta Ray, an Australian singer-songwriter, gained early success with a triple j Unearthed High win and continues to rise with her honest lyricism and infectious pop hooks. Her 2023 sophomore album Positive Spin solidified her status as a talented songwriter, blending autobiographical moments with captivating melodies that resonate deeply.

JahWise is an award-winning reggae producer from Brazil, now based in Melbourne. His passion for reggae and exceptional production skills have made him a key figure in the Australian reggae scene. JahWise’s innovative sound has left a lasting impact on the music industry, establishing his prominence in reggae production.

Melbourne-based The Belair Lip Bombs recently released their debut album Lush Life, featuring 10 tracks of evocative indie arrangements and catchy hooks. The album explores themes of longing and self-fulfilment. With international festival appearances and growing recognition, the band is experiencing a breakout year in the indie music scene.

Tekoa is a New Zealand-based worship folk trio led by Rory McKenna, a former pop star. Their heartfelt, soulful music blends folk with worship, resonating deeply with audiences. Having amassed over 5 million streams, Tekoa’s unique sound and faith-driven message continue to inspire listeners worldwide, cementing their rise in the scene.