MEET THE NOMINEES
IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER
ALICE JONES
General Committee Member
Organisation: Qld Music Trails / QMF
Role: Head of Programming & Experience at Qld Music Trails
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: I work within regional Queensland music industry - and this can include the Sunshine Coast - I regularly programme Sunshine Coast musicians in my current role at QMF.
No. of years in Industry: 25+
I have over two decades of experience across the Australian music industry as a musician, educator, venue programmer, and festival producer. My current role is to lead the Music Programme at QMF / Qld Music Trails, and lead a team of Producers to deliver the Qld Music Trails in remote and regional Queensland.
I am a Sunshine Coast local and lived there for over 15 years, also working in the music industry as a Venue book er (Imperial Hotel Eumundi), creating the free, community event Park Sounds - which focussed on creating performance opportunities for youth alongside a 'headline' act, and created Offbeat Music Festival.
Whether it's a pub gig, a youth showcase, or a full-scale regional festival, I am driven by the same thing: creating genuine opportunities for artists and communities to connect through live music. Music is the anchor for community, culture, experiences and connection, and it is rooted in place.
Why would you like to join: To contribute to the culture of the Sunshine Coast music community and be a voice for the Sunshine Coast in the wider Music Industry conversations happening at city and state level.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: Supporting local venues and creating performance opportunities for sunshine Coast musicians - but also audience development for those musicians. That doesnt happen without venues and events for them to perform at.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: I am a current member of the SCMIC committee. I have volunteered at festivals in the past but not in a long term capacity.
ANDY WARD
General Committee Member
Organisation: UniSC
Role: Head of Music, Researcher and Academic
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Yes.
No. of years in Industry: 25
I am a founding member of SCMIC and have acted in an executive role since incorporation. I no longer can fulfil an executive role due to the limits set out in the constitution. As a result, I would like to retain general committee membership as a support mechanism and as part of succession and transition planning.
I am a gold record winning songwriter, producer, and recording artists with over 40million streams and charting songs in over 10 international territories. I am also a classically trained musician and hold a PhD in songwriting. I have worked with major labels, agents, and publishers both nationally and abroad
Why would you like to join: The Sunshine Coast has a diverse and unique music ecosystem, but is significantly under represented at all tiers of government and industry. I would like to continue to support the objects of SCMIC by providing my expertise in both policy/political economy and industry.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: Its celebration, growth and development through meaning ful representation to government.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: I founded SCMIC with Liss O’Bryan in 2021. Since then I have served as secretary and treasurer. I also sit on multiple university boards, and the retirement living council of Australia. I also penned the constitution of SCMIC.
ANT McKENNA
Secretary | General Committee Member
Organisation: Ant McKenna Creative
Role: EGM of ALMBC, Secretary of SCMIC, Board of Gold Coast Music Industry Alliance, Yama Nui Records & stacks more!
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Yes - Part of the Yama Nui Records family and Secretary of SCMIC
No. of years in Industry: Since 1990ish. Maybe 35 years.
Ant Mckenna is Executive General Manager of the Australian Live Music Business Council, a national live music leadership organisation with almost 3,000 members representing 20,000 live music workers in the grass roots live music industry.
He also provides income stream development consulting to Yama Nui Records and has had recent roles at Queensland Music Festival and QMusic.
He is highly experienced in music industry policy and planning, contracting to numerous local governments across the continent.
He is also the Secretary for the Sunshine Coast Music Industry Collective and on the board for the new Gold Coast Music Industry Alliance.
McKenna has 30 years experience in music industry development, music policy and planning, organisational development, cultural development, creative industry development, was the inaugural artist representative on the QMusic Board and played in the iconic (pre-social media era!) Melbourne touring act Those Bloody McKennas for many years.
Why would you like to join: I've had an incredible time being secretary and part of the committee and just keen to keep seeing the organisation grow and become more successful.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: I love playing a developmental role and being part of a team that works hard to build the industry.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: Current Secretary Of SCMIC. Board member of the new Gold Coast Music Alliance. I was the first artist representative on the QMusic Board and a Board Member for perhaps 4 years. Ive led a stack of strategic planning for boards, groups and businesses.
BRIONY LUTTRELL
General Committee Member
Organisation: Senior Lecturer at UniSC
Role: Musician, Producer, Arranger, etc. Music academic.
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Occassionally. Most of my work at the moment is as a music academic at UniSC
No. of years in Industry: approx 22
I am a classically trained cellist with extensive experience in both live and recorded contexts working as a performer, writer, producer, and consultant. I specialize in creative collaboration and have hundreds of creative works that encompass art music traditions, popular music, musical direction, and experimental practices.
Currently a Senior Lecturer in Music at UniSC, I have been a tertiary educator since 2007 and have two decades of experience working in the music industry. My PhD looks at string arrangements for recorded popular music and my current research focuses on cultural meaning making, creative practice and creative practitioner wellbeing.
Why would you like to join: I want to contribute to growing the visibility, career sustainability, and momentum of music in the region.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: There are so many excellent, hardworking, passionate people working in the sunshine coast music industry who deserve fair pay, good working conditions, and to not have to move out of the region to pursue a music career. I am interested in contributing in a general capacity but can also offer an academic perspective.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: SCMIC Committee member since approx April 2026.
COREY SKIPPER
Indigenous Representative Chair | General Committee Member
Organisation: Maleny Neighbourhood Centre
Role: Director, SCMIC Indigenous Chair
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Yes indeed.
I'm currently a director at the Maleny neighbourhood centre which is a beacon for the community,we help so many homeless people with accommodation, emergency relief and a number of community development programs ,,,along side of the Queensland police we in the process of building a youth centre to keep our kids safe and to give the services they need,,,,,,I am also currently an independent support person for families trying to get their kids back from the welfare ,,,,
No. of years in Industry: Around 20 years in South East Queensland and surrounds
I’m a Kakatha man from the top end of South Australia in desert Country. I have been married for 33 years, we have 7 children and our thirteenth grandchild is on the way. We have been settled in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland (Maleny) for over 20 years.
I have extensive of experience in leading community organisations. I am currently involved as an organiser on multiple festivals up and down the Queensland Coast and a member of the of Management Committee at the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre.
I have been involved in the music industry for 20 years in South East Queensland and surrounds. I developed and produced the UTribe festival in 2009 to showcase local First Nations artist and promote the philosophy of universal unity through music and art.
I have also collaborated across a range of community events throughout the Sunshine Coast and beyond. I have worked in a range of roles with the Woodford Folk Festival from 2001 to 2010. I led the construction crew and liaised with Indigenous artists.
At the 2025 Prana Festival I was invited to participate on the panel alongside local elders to discuss Walking On Country. This was an open forum to share knowledge and culture and discuss issues impacting Indigenous Communities around Australia.
From 2001 - 2012 the Dreaming Festival employed me to lead the construction crew and liaise and translate for the visiting Elders from all of Central Australia.
My work has always been grounded in sharing culture and connection through music, and I have been fortunate to mentor young Indigenous artists and contribute to community programs that support creative development and cultural awareness.
Why would you like to join: I'd love to rejoin the scmic committee as the indigenous chair because I have made countless connections within the mob near and far and have been involved with mentoring our young indigenous peoples in so many aspects of the music industry, also I feel I have much more to offer heading into the future
Passions / Proposed Contributions: Im really passionate about supporting all the music industry within the sunny coast , also mentoring our indigenous to get the opportunities that they might never get by engaging within the indigenous community,,,,giving a platform to enrich our up and coming artists through festivals ,mentoring ,live gigs etc
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: I am currently a directory at the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre. I have also been serving as the Indigenous chair since nominated by my peers last September 2025.
JAMES TELFORD
General Committee Member
Organisation: Freelance
Role: Musician and Music Lecturer/Tutor
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Yes, mostly in a teaching capacity at the moment, but am keen to meet musicians and start playing live now that my family and I are getting a bit more settled in our new home.
No. of years in Industry: 20+
I'm a musician and lecturer from the UK who moved to the sunshine coast with my family in October 2025. I grew up playing the pub circuit in the North East of England with my school rock band, before studying music at Edinburgh, Oxford and Royal Holloway and eventually gaining a PhD in experimental electronic music.
Since then I've taught BA and Masters courses at the Academy of Music and Sound (online), undergraduate courses at the University of Oxford, and just started teaching on the music course at the University of the Sunshine Coast.
I also teach piano and guitar both privately and in music schools. Although I've always been drawn to the noisy, experimental and industrial in music, I still love playing and teaching rock, pop, folk and classical genres. I have a solo experimental electronic project under the pseudonym 'Spectra' and am currently working on a math/noise rock EP with my band from the UK, 'Silas Marner'.
Why would you like to join: To meet others who are passionate about growing the music scene in the area and to help build a thriving cultural offering for arty folk on the coast.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: So far, getting to know it and understand it! But long-term, advocating for a more accessible night time economy, especially for young, up and coming musicians and fans.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: Most of my volunteering has actually been outside of music in the UK (community cinema, organising French language groups and cinema clubs, political volunteering), perhaps because it was a break from my work in a scene in which I was already embedded.
However, from these experiences and my experience working with colleagues in universities and musical projects, I am always an enthusiastic and motivated collaborator, passionate about making an impact on behalf of whoever I am working for in a given scenario!
JARROD TUTBURY
Working Musician's Chair | General Committee Member | Secretary
Organisation: SCMIC, ABC
Role: Working musician, SCMIC committee member, events organiser, band manager, journalist
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Yes, as manager and pianist in Ampersand, SCMIC committee member, manager of the Hastings st busking program, the Presynct’s open mic coordinator, youth event organiser, piano teacher and session muso. I am also a resident performer at venues across the coast.
No. of years in Industry: I have been playing and performing since I was 4 years old. For the last 6 years I have been an active part of the Noosa/Sunshine Coast music scene.
If I haven’t met you before, hi I’m Jarrod!
I’m a pianist, writer, journalist (currently casual radio producer at ABC Sunshine Coast) and SCMIC committee member for the last two years, still with many big ideas.
I started out as a young band manager of Ampersand 6 years ago and found my footing in the local scene running around every event and festival we could get on the lineup of. Our music is still up on Spotify as a fun time capsule of that early era.
I am a passionate believer in the work SCMIC does for the community and am immensely proud of the results we have achieved in the last few years.
Why would you like to join: I have been a part of the SCMIC Committee for the past two years, working with the team to deliver the first two Sunshine Coast Music Industry Awards, as well as leading the planning and delivery of The Next Set, a youth event initiative designed to cut through the noise of the music industry and provide eager fresh faces with the tools and insight they need to get their best chance at a career. I hope to continue this work and deliver the second Next Set event.
I also find I’m quite useful at our events to do most of the running around and lifting of heavy things!
Passions / Proposed Contributions: My passion as a musician in his early 20s is nurturing and encouraging the next generation of young artists, with the memories of my teen band days still fresh in my mind.
I started professionally gigging at 17, and a lot of our current teen bands performing on the coast I have known since they were kids playing at the same school events.
I feel very strongly that the Sunshine Coast punches above its weight in Queensland with the amount of exceptionally driven and talented artists it produces, and I want to do what I can to make sure that the opportunities they need are there for them.
Back when my band Ampersand used to gig, I didn’t realise how many boundaries we broke down for the kids younger than us that saw us as an example. I see many of these kids now teenagers following the same values we modelled as a band, namely community, teamwork, kindness and an endless sense of fun and can do attitudes.
I want to make sure this band culture continues on the coast and they continue to all uplift each other.
I consider my position on SCMIC is to be a voice for the young artists.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: Besides my proven work on the SCMIC committee, I volunteer my time at events across the coast and run small open mic events. I am currently working on a series of Backyard Bash DIY backyard gigs (come chat to me about them if you’re interested).
I also love being a sounding board for bands wanting help with their Networking and PR ideas as comms is my passion.
JODIE ANDERSON
General Committee Member
Organisation: Blackflag brewing
Role: Event/ festival event contractor
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Artist services/ Gate & Ticketing Blackflag Venues Pranafest Artisit Services Volunteer Coordinator - Jungle Love/ EFF Rolling Sets 2026 Volunteer Cooridnator and Gate Manager
No. of years in Industry: 20+
Highly organised, proactive, and detail-oriented venue & events professional with over 20 years’ experience across venue bookings, live arts administration, event operations, and financial coordination. Possesses a proven track record in end-to-end event scheduling, contracting, artist/promoter liaison, and marketing alignment across Prominent cultural hubs and major festivals.
Demonstrates exceptional expertise in maintaining venue calendars, managing 900+ show builds annually, Collecting artist riders and tech specs, and executing on-sale marketing strategies. Highly skilled in stakeholder Communication, high-pressure problem-solving, and cross-functional team collaboration.
Passionate about live music and performance, dedicated to delivering seamless, top-tier event experiences from
Initial negotiation and contracting through to show day.
Why do you want to join: I want to give input and be part of the diverse group that supports our local music and arts community
Passions / Proposed Contributions: Fostering local musicians and bringing touring music to sunshine coast region.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: As a volunteer coorindator of festivals I can recruit and bring like minded indisuals together. I was my sons kindagarten treasurer.
KIM FERRIE
General Committee Member
Organisation: SunSound Booking Co
Role: Booking Agent, Musician
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Yes
No. of years in Industry: Performer for 20 years (intermittently), Agency owner 1-2 years
I am a Sunshine Coast-based business owner, live music advocate and musician with a strong passion for supporting and growing our local music industry.
I am the owner of SunSound Booking Co., a Sunshine Coast live music booking agency connecting local artists with venues, private events and corporate functions.
Through SunSound, I work closely with venues and performers to create sustainable opportunities for musicians, including managing live music programming at Kawana Waters Hotel.
I am also involved in the ownership and operation of Fishing Superstore, giving me experience in business management, marketing, e-commerce and building customer-focused brands.
As one half of Sunny CousticKs, I also have firsthand experience as a working musician and understand the challenges and opportunities faced by local performers. This combination of business, venue and artist experience gives me a broad perspective on the Sunshine Coast music ecosystem.
I would welcome the opportunity to contribute my experience, industry connections and enthusiasm to the SCMIC committee and help advocate for a stronger, more connected and sustainable music industry on the Sunshine Coast.
Why would you like to join: I want to join the SCMIC committee because I believe the Sunshine Coast live music industry is at an important junction. The closure of several key music venues and locations, including The Station, Terrella and Solbar, has created a significant gap in the local music landscape. I believe there is an opportunity to re-engage the community with live music, support venues to embrace local artists and help build a stronger, more sustainable music culture across the Coast.
Through SunSound Booking Co., my work with venues and artists has given me a practical understanding of the challenges facing both sides of the industry. I would like to use this experience to help develop initiatives that create more opportunities for musicians, encourage venues to invest in live music and strengthen connections between artists, businesses and the wider community.
I am also currently exploring the development of a First Nations cultural and music exchange program between Australia and Canada, connecting Indigenous artists, musicians and performers across both countries. I see this as an opportunity to build international connections while creating meaningful performance, cultural and professional opportunities for First Nations artists.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: I am most passionate about creating more opportunities for local musicians and re-engaging the Sunshine Coast community with live music. I believe we have an incredible depth of talent on the Coast, but we need more venues, audiences and pathways for artists to build sustainable careers.
Rather than simply accepting the loss of some of our most valuable live music spaces, I want to be part of finding new ways to bring live music back into venues, hospitality businesses, community spaces and events across the region.
Through SunSound Booking Co. and my involvement with Kawana Waters Hotel, I am already working directly with artists and venues to create performance opportunities. I would like to bring this practical, grassroots experience to SCMIC and contribute to stronger relationships between musicians, venues, councils, businesses and the community.
I am also passionate about creating opportunities beyond the Coast, including the First Nations music and cultural exchange program between Australia and Canada that I am currently developing.
I would like to help SCMIC turn ideas into practical opportunities that strengthen and grow our local music industry.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: While I have not previously held a formal committee position, I have gained experience working closely with the Sunshine Coast Game Fishing Club committee through my partner, who is a committee member.
My business actively sponsors the club, and I regularly volunteer at club events, including assisting with event organisation, raffles and other activities. This has given me an appreciation of the time, collaboration and commitment required to support a community organisation and contribute effectively as part of a committee.
I enjoy being involved in community initiatives and working with people to help create successful events and opportunities, and I would bring this same practical and collaborative approach to SCMIC.
LEIGH KURYJ
Treasurer
Organisation: The Numbers Biz
Role: Punter
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: No, not directly.
No. of years in Industry: Nil
Bookkeeper/Numbers Nerd/Xero Silver Partner. Music lover & 2025 Punter of the year!
Current Treasurer of Coolum Business and Tourism.
I have a passion for collaboration and connection. And am interested in the music industry and night time economy. And helping all win.
Why would you like to join: Super keen to support however I can. And grow the amazing work already underway.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: I obviously personally enjoy the music scene on the sunshine's coast. And appreciate the opportunities and employment the industry brings to our region. And hence keen to support in any way I can.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience:
2020-current - treasurer Coolum Business and Tourism
2014-current - Mama Lana's Community Foundation
2011-2019 Treasurer Henry Fulton Public School P&C
2012-2017 Treasurer-Penrith Chamber of Commerce
2012-2016 Queen of Hearts Foundation
MELISSA O'BRYAN
General Committee Member
Organisation: ITSGOOODtouring
Role: Sound Engineer, Tour Manager, Booking Agent, Ex-Chair SCMIC (since incorporation)
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Yes
No. of years in Industry: 13 years
Melissa O’Bryan is a passionate advocate for grassroots music and a figure in the Sunshine Coast live music community. With 13 years at the iconic Solbar - eight of those as Entertainment Manager - she played a pivotal role in shaping the venue’s reputation as a hub for emerging and established artists alike.
Melissa is the inaugural and current Chair of the Sunshine Coast Music Industry Collective (SCMIC), where she continues to champion opportunities for local musicians and industry professionals.
Her hands-on experience extends beyond venues and leadership roles into touring, working as both a tour manager and live sound engineer for indie outfit Betty Taylor. A musician herself, Melissa was also a member of the band Fat Pony.
Known for her deep industry knowledge and commitment to fostering creative communities, she attempts to bring practical and fresh perspectives to her work.
Why would you like to join: I want to ensure the paths we have travelled and lessons we have learnt over the previous 5 years still form a part of the collective's & committee's knowledge.
I am passionate about the noteriety and endorsement of the amazing creativeness and culture we have here on the coast, and believe that I still have ideas around future programs (eg. mentoring younger Back of House crew), and other advocacy works that I can help with.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: Shared knowledge and overall growth. Ensuring the cream of our industry has the facilities to rise ever higher.
Over years I have worked in so many different facets, I beleive I can bring a rounded and interconnected perspective to the committee
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience:
Inaugral committee Member SCMIC 2021-2022
Inaugral Chair SCMIC 2022-2025
NIKKI GARLAND
General Committee Member
Organisation: No organisation
Role: Live music lover and supporter.
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Not anymore.
No. of years in Industry: 8 years
I've lived on the Sunshine Coast my whole life, with music playing a very strong role in my life.
I am passionate about my local music scene...Seeing local music venues closing down has been deeply upsetting and I would really love to be a part of turning this around and advocating for a strong music scene once again on the Sunshine Coast.
Why would you like to join: Because im passionate about keeping the music scene on the Sunshine Coast alive and healthy, giving up-and-coming musicians opportunities and places to play along with places for touring bands to play on the Sunshine Coast.
Passions / Proposed Contributions
Im most passionate about providing emerging artists spaces to play and nurturing them so that we keep the Sunshine Coast music scene growing and evolving.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: Community radio - music show for 8 years on Noosa FM, promoting local artists and events.
On the board of Peregian Originals: helping behind the scenes to keep the Originals going, volunteering my time attending Originals, committee meetings, being hands on wherever needed.
Also helped to get the Redcliff Originals off the ground and facilitated numerous Originals from set down, running of event to pack down.
Previously a band manager for a hot minute as well as a booking agent.
OWEN (OJ) NEWCOMB
Working Musician Chair | General Committee Member
Organisation: YAMA-NUI RECORDS
Role: Artist/producer/record label director/studio owner/manager/mentor
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Yes.
No. of years in Industry: 25 years +
OJ Newcomb is a musician, producer, mentor, and industry leader with over 25 years of experience across performance, recording, and creative community development. He is the Director of Yama-Nui Records, a fast-growing independent label and creative hub founded in 2023, and the co-founder and owner of the award-winning Yama-Nui Studios, alongside Head Engineer Paulie Bromley.
As a passionate advocate for artists, OJ works to make music and the music industry a sustainable, positive space for creators. His career spans roles as a performer (bassist and multi-instrumentalist), producer, audio engineer, sound recordist, music supervisor, manager, promoter, and mentor.
As a bassist, OJ has toured internationally and performed with acclaimed artists including John Butler Trio, Xavier Rudd, The Whitlams, Robert Randolph, Jason Rebello (Sting), Ian Moss, Ash Grunwald, Band of Frequencies, Afro Dizzi Act, Ziggy Alberts, and many more. His performances have taken him to major national and international festivals and venues, including Red Rocks (Colorado), Colours of Ostrava, Solidays, Beauregard, and MainSqr Festival.
OJ is also active in the film industry as a sound recordist and music supervisor with the Academy Award-winning Songbird Studios, known for films such as Quincy and Porcelain War.
Alongside his performance career, OJ has produced, co-produced, and engineered a wide range of projects including Afro Dizzi Act, Band of Frequencies, Fat Picnic, Low Pressure Sound System, and The TransparentSea Voyage, as well as composing music for film (Deus: The Scramble Gamble soundtrack). His collaborations include work with leading producers such as Paulie Bromley (Lord Tanuki), Jeff Lovejoy (Blackbox Recording), Justin Tressider, Anthony Lycenko (Rocking Horse Studios), and Steve Smart (301 Studios).
Beyond performance and production, OJ has contributed as a festival programmer, musical director, event organiser, and mentor, supporting countless emerging artists. His work with initiatives such as Surfers for Cetaceans’ TransparentSea Voyage highlights his commitment to merging music with environmental and social causes.
Why would you like to join: Support the Sunshine Coasts growing music industry & artists.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: Education , communication , connection , development & rewarding careers.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience:
Eumundi School of Rock - Music Director (7years)
PENNY BRAND
General Committee Member | Secretary
Organisation: YELO
Role: Founder and editor of YELO, an independent digital magazine covering the Sunshine Coast live music and culture scene.
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Yes. I work closely with local artists, venues, promoters, photographers, music organisations and audiences through YELO. My work includes covering local music releases and gigs, maintaining gig guides, interviewing artists, promoting local music through ABC Sunshine Coast and supporting the broader music community through editorial coverage and industry connections.
No. of years in Industry: Three years working 100% in the music industry, and 20+ years alongside it as a journalist for newspapers and music street press.
I’m a journalist, editor and the founder of YELO, an independent Sunshine Coast music and culture publication. I started YELO in 2023 after years working in journalism and writing about live music, with the aim of making it easier for people to find gigs, discover local artists and feel connected to what is happening in their own community. YELO now covers local music news, interviews, gig guides, reviews, photography and playlists, with selected coverage across Queensland. I also share local music and gig news on ABC Sunshine Coast. I want to do what I can to help keep the scene strong by making sure people know what’s happening around them.
Why would you like to join: I want to stay connected to the people working across the local music industry and contribute to practical projects that help strengthen the scene. I also love an excuse to get out on the floor and walk the talk, really taking in what’s happening, meeting new people and listening to some great music along the way.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: What I’m most passionate about is getting people out of the house and connecting with each other through music, arts and culture. We’re living through a real mental health and disconnection crisis, and I think local gigs, creative spaces and shared experiences matter more than ever. People need connection, music and joy, and we also need to stay connected to the arts as a whole.
I worry about cultural erosion and what happens when local venues, artists, events and creative spaces slowly disappear. I’d like to use my journalism and media experience to help people find what’s happening, support the people creating it, and do what I can to help keep our culture strong.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: I have previously served as Secretary of the Sunshine Coast Music Industry Collective and have been involved with the Sunshine Coast Music Awards.
Through YELO I also regularly support local artists, venues and music initiatives through editorial coverage, promotion, photography and community connections. My professional background in journalism and editing means I’m comfortable with communications, organisation, meetings, deadlines and turning ideas into practical outcomes.
RYAN ANDERSON
General Committee Member
Organisation: MTC Entertainment
Role: International Booking Agent - Country Music
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Yes, and based in Maroochydore
No. of years in Industry: 15+
Ryan Anderson is Director of Operations and Booking Agent at MTC Entertainment, where he has established one of Australia's strongest connections into the Canadian country music industry. Specialising in international touring and artist development, Ryan works with leading Australian and Canadian country artists, securing opportunities across major festivals, venues and live music markets in both countries.
Through an extensive international network built over more than a decade, Ryan has developed trusted relationships with promoters, festival directors, venues, managers and industry leaders throughout Australia and Canada. His work focuses on creating sustainable export opportunities for Australian artists while strengthening cultural and commercial partnerships between the two countries.
Ryan is an active member of the Country Music Association of Australia (CMAA), the Australian Live Music Business Council (ALMBC) and the Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA). His work spans many of Australia's premier country music events, including the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Gympie Music Muster, Groundwater Country Music Festival and Savannah in the Round.
Ryan's vision is to strengthen the long-term partnership between the Australian and Canadian country music industries by creating sustainable touring pathways, fostering meaningful industry collaboration, and expanding international opportunities for artists, festivals, venues and music businesses. Through this work, he is helping establish Australia and Canada as natural touring partners while elevating the global profile of Australian country music.
Why would you like to join: I want to join the SCMIC Committee because I genuinely believe the Sunshine Coast has the talent, creativity and potential to become a much stronger force in the Australian music industry.
Through my work with MTC Entertainment, I have seen firsthand the opportunities that can be created when artists, venues, festivals, promoters and industry professionals are connected and working together. I would love the opportunity to bring that experience, along with my national and international industry relationships, to help strengthen the music ecosystem here on the Sunshine Coast.
I'm particularly passionate about creating more opportunities for local artists to develop sustainable careers, perform on bigger stages, connect with industry decision-makers and ultimately take their music beyond the Sunshine Coast.
I also see SCMIC as an opportunity to contribute to something bigger than my own business. I want to be part of a collaborative group that advocates for our local music industry, supports the people working within it, and helps position the Sunshine Coast as a destination for live music and a place where artists can genuinely build a career.
I believe I can contribute a different perspective through my experience in international booking, touring, festivals and artist development, while also learning from and working alongside the incredible people already driving the Sunshine Coast music community forward.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: I'm passionate about seeing the Sunshine Coast become recognised as one of Australia's leading regional music hubs, not just for incredible live music, but as a place where artists and music businesses can build sustainable careers with national and international opportunities. Through MTC Entertainment, I've built strong relationships across Australia and Canada with artists, festivals, promoters, venues and industry organisations.
I'd love to bring that experience and network to SCMIC by helping create stronger pathways for Sunshine Coast artists to connect with the wider music industry, access export opportunities, and develop meaningful touring and professional partnerships.
I also believe in building a connected local music community. I'd like to contribute by supporting collaboration between artists, venues, festivals and industry professionals, advocating for the Sunshine Coast live music sector, and helping create opportunities that strengthen our local industry while raising the profile of Sunshine Coast music on a national and international stage.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: My previous committee and volunteer experience spans national industry representation, community events and the arts:
I served as a Board Member of the Canadian Farmers Forum, giving me experience working at a national level, contributing to committee discussions, representing the interests of a broader community, and working collaboratively with other stakeholders to support the organisation’s objectives.
Within the music and arts sector, I have volunteered with the Gympie Music Muster and the Maroochy Arts and Visual Festival, gaining valuable firsthand experience supporting major community events and seeing the work that goes on behind the scenes to bring artists, audiences, volunteers and organisers together.
Through my professional role in the music industry, I have also developed extensive experience working with artists, promoters, festivals, venues and industry organisations across Australia and internationally.
I would bring this combination of governance experience, hands-on volunteering and professional music-industry knowledge to SCMIC, with a strong focus on collaboration, advocacy and creating meaningful opportunities for the Sunshine Coast music community.
SARAH MOYNIHAN
General Committee Member
Organisation: Light Industry
Role: My company Feral Arts has developed and delivered music sector development projects including the Arts Qld funded Amped Project
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: I work in the arts industry.
No. of years in Industry: I've worked in the arts industry nationally for over 30 years and here on the coast for 8 years.
I am a visual artist and cultural development worker with Feral Arts. I run the Light Industry Project in Kunda Park, and we established the Kunda Park Alliance at the Sunshine Coast Brewery.
Why would you like to join: To support the development of the arts sector and music industry on the Sunshine Coast
Passions / Proposed Contributions: I'm passionate about supporting young and emerging artists, and I have lots of experience on the boards of not-for-profit companies that I'd like to share. I'd like see SCMIC develop into a strong, sustainable, successful and well-funded company.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience: I have run a national arts not-for-profit company for more than thirty years, and have chaired a number of other arts not-for-profits, including the Qld Community Arts Network. I have also been a board member of US rural development company, Rural Strategies.
SARAH HOWELLS
Chair | Vice Chair | Secretary | General Committee Member
Organisation: ABC Radio (amongst other things)
Role: Advocate / media / MC
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Yes
No. of years in Industry: 30 years
Sarah Howells is a broadcaster, music industry advocate and passionate champion of the Sunshine Coast’s music community, with a career spanning over three decades.
Sarah has worked across the Australian music industry as a broadcaster, MC, music writer, publicist, event organiser, stage manager and DJ. She presented Roots N All and Weekend Lunch on triple j, Stir It Up on Double J, and has written for The Australian, Rhythms, street press, and recently contributed to APRA's book '100 Years of Australian Songwriting'.
Now a presenter with ABC Sunshine Coast, Sarah uses her platform to champion local artists, venues, events and music stories, helping connect the region’s talent with wider audiences.
Sarah is currently Vice Chair of the Sunshine Coast Music Industry Collective (SCMIC), where she plays an active role in strengthening the region’s music ecosystem. She has helped deliver initiatives including the Sunshine Coast Music Awards, The Next Set youth program, industry networking and professional development opportunities.
Sarah is passionate about creating pathways for emerging artists, supporting the region’s established music community and advocating for greater recognition of the Sunshine Coast as a significant part of Australia’s music landscape.
Why would you like to join: I am passionate about the Sunshine Coast music scene and want to continue the great work that SCMIC has been doing to amplify the voices of local artists and music businesses, while advocating both publicly and behind the scenes.
I have loved being part of the committee for the past 2 years, and being part of the team bringing together things like the Sunshine Coast Music Awards, the Next Set youth event, the Solbar meetup and various networking opportunities. There is so much more opportunity for expansion, and I am extremely keen to be part of that.
I still think the talent on the Sunshine Coast is one of the best kept secrets in Australia, and I’m determined to see it recognised across the country.. and for the scene to be supported and thriving. Anything I can do to help that happen and I’m there.
I want to support the people already doing great work across our industry, while helping create meaningful development opportunities and pathways for those coming through. Building capacity across all aspects of the industry will allow artists and music businesses to grow, develop and expand.
Basically, I am very, very passionate about Sunshine Coast music. And I reckon actively working on the SCMIC committee is a great way for me to help in any way I can.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: I am passionate about seeing the Sunshine Coast recognised and respected as a place where music is created, careers are built and music businesses thrive. I want to help create a strong, sustainable live music scene and support the people working hard to make that a reality.
For me, that means building the profile of the region while also strengthening the industry from within - creating meaningful development opportunities, connecting people across the industry and supporting the artists, businesses and organisations already doing great work here.
I’ve been actively involved in SCMIC’s work over the past two years. Creating and delivering the Sunshine Coast Music Awards for the past two years has helped shine a light on the incredible talent in our region and get people talking about our music scene. Our networking events and industry get-togethers have created more opportunities for people to connect and support each other, while The Next Set has provided a dedicated space for young musicians to develop and connect with the industry.
These are just some of the things I’ve been proud to contribute to, and I want to do more.
I want SCMIC to be ambitious about what the Sunshine Coast can become: a place artists want to tour, record, collaborate and create, and a region recognised nationally and internationally for the quality and diversity of its music community.
We have all the ingredients. I want to contribute my 30 years of music industry experience, knowledge and national connections to help make this scene the best it can be.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience:
I have been an active member of the SCMIC committee for the past two years, serving as Secretary and Vice Chair.
SHANNON CARROLL
Working Musician Chair | General Committee Member
Organisation: Band of Frequencies
Role: Musician. Educator.
Do you work within the SC Music Industry: Yes
No. of years in Industry: Over 35 years
I am a musician and songwriter with a diverse discography of albums, collaborative projects, and surf film soundtracks, including Band of Frequencies, Afro Dizzi Act, and more. I am also a casual academic tutor and course coordinator at the University of the Sunshine Coast. I recently graduated with a Master of Creative Arts, and I am part of an amazing team at UniSC coordinating and delivering performance, songwriting and music business subjects for the Bachelor of Music degree in the School of Business and Creative Industries.
Why would you like to join: I'd like to remain on the committee to further the collective's goals and continue the good work already done.
Passions / Proposed Contributions: I'm passionate about ensuring that Sunshine Coast musicians and artists have the opportunity to contribute to a thriving local scene that reflects our coastal location and lifestyle. I'd like to continue serving on the committee as Working Musician's Chair, representing musicians' interests as the industry navigates a challenging time.
Previous Committee/Volunteer Experience:
I am currently the Working Musician's Chair on the SCMIC committee.