Eight women from regional and remote Queensland have been selected for an opportunity to develop their skills and connections in the music industry.
Australian Women in Music Awards (AWMA) Queensland Regional & Remote Women's Music Program enables aspiring First Nations women, female, and gender diverse artists and music practitioners from regional and remote Queensland to travel and attend the two-day Australian Women in Music Awards (AWMA) Conference, Ceremony and Concert Program in Magandjin/Brisbane on the 8th and 9th of October.
The program offers an opportunity for aspiring music practitioners to gain professional experience and participate in the two-day AWMA Program, which includes a Conference Program, a series of forums and an 'In-Conversation' keynote address, networking opportunities, the AWMA Black Carpet, Award Ceremony, Concert and After Party.
Supported by the Queensland Government, the program provides a "safe and supportive" environment for industry connections to develop and thrive, ensuring all participants are nurtured by experienced music industry professionals to achieve their aspirations. AWMA is one of the only major music events in the Country curated and produced by women.
Now in its sixth year, the program has provided employment and performance opportunities for previous recipients, along with the opportunity to participate in all areas of AWMA to make invaluable industry connections.
Fiona Simpson, Queensland minister for Women and Women's Economic Security and minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, congratulated this year's successful delegates.
"I am thrilled to celebrate the talented women selected as this year's delegates for the Queensland Regional & Remote Women's Music Program. This program empowers women in regional and remote parts of our state to thrive in the music industry; breaking down barriers and inspiring the next generation of female artists," she said.
"The Crisafulli Government is proud to support the AWMAs in championing female artists from across Queensland, particularly those from diverse cultural backgrounds and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage."
The AWMA Regional Program provides opportunities for women in a range of music industry roles. Previous regional delegate Elly Hanlon, from Airlie Beach, is working as a key member of this year's production team to assist with delivering the two-day event.
The AWMA 2025 delegates were selected based on their current music experience, their role in the industry, and the impact they are making to contribute to a more equitable and inclusive music community. They are provided with travel, accommodation and allowances to attend the AWMA Conference on the 8th of October and the AWMA Award Ceremony and Concert on the evening of the 9th of October.
With a impressive selection of finalists and a stellar line-up of artists performing at this year's AWMA, the regional and remote delegates will have behind-the-scenes access to some of the most experienced and talented musicians, artists, music practitioners and industry leaders working in the Australian music industry today.
Featured artists include Kate Miller-Heidke, Missy Higgins, 'Babyshakes' Dillon, Sarah McLeod, Arrkula Yinbayarra (Together We Sing) featuring Dr Shellie Morris from remote NT, Donna Simpson and Vikki Thorn of The Waifs, teen prodigy IXARAS, and mezzo soprano Aylish Ryan.
Australian broadcaster and author Yumi Stynes returns as co-host with Australia's rising star, operatic soprano, Nina Korbe. The AWMA House Band, featuring some of Australia's top female musicians, Zoe Hauptmann (AWMA Music Director & Bassist), Sarah Belkner (Keys & Vocals), Kath Halloran (Guitarist & Vocals), and Lozz Benson (Drums), will be accompanying the extraordinary musical talent on the night.
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