After staging a successful inaugural awards last year, Sunshine Coast Music Awards return in 2026 with nominations now open.
Event organiser, Sunshine Coast Music Industry Collective (SCMIC) are thrilled to again be hosting the awards that celebrate outstanding artists and music industry excellence within the region – both musicians and bands as well as venues, studios, and industry figures shaping the Sunshine Coast sound.
Winners last year included Ziggy Alberts, Minnie Marks, Frank and Louis, and Yama Nui Studios. While Betty Taylor was the big winner, scoring three gongs: Rising Star Award, Song Of The Year and Live Act Of The Year.
"We are so lucky to be a part of a community that has so much homegrown talent, and so grateful we get to showcase what the Sunshine Coast has to offer on a global stage," Sophie Patrick from Betty Taylor says.
The 2026 awards will feature 11 categories celebrating not only the region's artistic and commercial excellence, but also the wider network of people and spaces which make up the creative backbone of the industry.
Melissa O'Bryan, Chair of the SCMIC, says the continuation of the awards reflects the strength and momentum of the local scene.
"SCMIC continues to make ground for the acknowledgement, connectivity, and opportunities for our artists and allied industry here on the Coast," Melissa says.
"Our first presentation of awards at The Station last year was a testament to that, and following its success, it became clear this was something that needed to continue.
"Works are underway, and we are extremely excited to be bringing the awards back again this year, and we hope they remain a highlight in the calendars of the community they represent."
Last year's Musician Of The Year winner, Minnie Marks was stoked to win, but also appreciative of the support workers behind the scenes. "Winning Musician Of The Year was a massive honour for this little duck.
"But in all honesty, the real magic comes from the hard working crew behind the scenes. The SCMIC team are absolute legends; they work their guts out day in and day out to celebrate our mighty musical community.
"I'm extremely proud to be part of it. These awards are all about celebrating our hardworking creatives. So if you love what someone's doing – please nominate them. Nominations are open now, get voting!"
Stalwart of the local scene for two-plus decades OJ Newcomb, whose studio Yama-Nui won Recording Studio Of The Year last year, is full of praise for the awards.
"The Sunshine Coast Music Awards was one of the most enjoyable and well-run events I've attended. . . Such a strong celebration of local artists and industry – it was great to reconnect and recognise the amazing work happening here."
Nominations for the 2026 Sunshine Coast Music Awards are now open and close on 20 March. The awards ceremony will be staged at The Shed on 7 June.
