Announcing the 2026 Finalists!
What an incredible year! We received 22 entries, and we were blown away by the quality, creativity and calibre of our regional talent. Choosing our finalists was no easy task—but after much deliberation, we’re excited to reveal our Top 14!
Aaron Mason
Arabella Gilbert
Barry Dean
Ben Mcclenahan
Bronwyn Leal
Deih Hudson
Graeme Bell
Jaime Charlton
Marijke McLoughlan
Marisa Dial
Michael Loos (Mooks)
Mo McMorrow
Nate Boylan
Robbie Tyler
Join us on Saturday 22 August as our finalists take to the stage to perform their original songs live. It’s set to be a spectacular evening celebrating local talent!
🎶 Congratulations once again to all of our finalists—we can’t wait to see you shine!
Want to come and watch and support amazing local talent? The 2026 Finalist Showcase of the Regional Songwriting Contest is now on sale.
Experience the next wave of local talent as our competition finalists hit the stage with their brand-new original songs. Each performance is amplified by a top-tier band of local musicians, bringing depth, energy, and serious vibe to every moment.
Don’t miss this celebration of creativity, community, and the thrill of live music. Grab your friends, lock in your tickets, and meet us in the Showroom for an unforgettable night!
Want to Enter your own song? Find out more.
The Regional Songwriting Contest is an opportunity for songwriters from across the Central West and surrounding regions to share their original music on a professional stage.
Open to emerging and established songwriters alike, the contest celebrates original voices, storytelling, and the diversity of music being created in our region. Finalists will be selected to perform their songs live at BMEC, supported by professional musicians and technical production, giving artists the chance to present their work in a high-quality performance environment.
The contest is designed to nurture local talent, build confidence, and create meaningful pathways for regional artists to develop and showcase their work. Whether you write folk, pop, country, rock, or something entirely your own, BMEC encourages you to apply and be part of a vibrant celebration of regional creativity.
Key Dates:
Friday 15th May 2026 – Entries Open
Friday 10th July 2026 @ 11:59pm Entries Closed
Monday 20th July 2026 Finalists Announced
Saturday 22nd August 2026 Rehearsal and Regional Songwriting Contest Top 14 Finalists in the BMEC Showroom.
Event and Ticket Details
Tickets
BMEC Members $22
Adult $25
Junior (Under 16) $16
* A $3 booking fee applies. BMEC Members do not pay this fee.
Age: 14+
Tickets are general admission. Foyer doors open at 6:30pm, Showroom doors open from 7pm.
Take a seat of your choosing in the Showroom, there’ll be a range of cabaret style seating (with small tables, plus bar stools) to choose from.
Come in from the chill and enjoy a relaxed evening of live music amongst friends.