The Regional Sessions

Oscar Dawson - Keynote + Workshop Mentor

Whether in league with the innovative Holy Holy, or on retainer for some of the most exciting acts rotating now, Oscar Dawson is always looking to connect. His art as a musician, engineer and producer is the manufacture of a sonic arc that extends from the heart of the author to that same affecting muscle in the receiver.

In the studio, Dawson is sought for his high definition, textured approach to sound, not only adding requisite sheen and focus, but a deeper nuance, so the feeling shines through. This same attention to detail extends through to the final mix, where he brings height, depth, width, punch and clarity to the sound, communicating the musical message - in any listening environment.

KLP - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Born and bred in Eora, KLP is a highly accomplished songwriter, performing artist, DJ, broadcaster and multifaceted producer who has worked professionally in the music industry since the age of 14. KLP earned 2 ARIA nominations for collaborations with Stace Cadet, ‘Energy’ & ‘People Happy’, with ‘Energy’ also placing #21 in Triple J’s coveted Hottest 100 countdown in 2021.

As one of Australia’s most in-demand songwriters and DJ’s, she is a mainstay in Australia’s studios, clubs, dance parties and music festival stages. She has also received 2 APRA Award nominations for ‘People Happy’ and ‘Honest’ by Peking Duk respectively.

Jem Siow (SPEED) - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Jem Siow is the lead vocalist of the Australian hardcore punk band SPEED. Formed in 2019 in Sydney, SPEED quickly gained recognition for their intense energy and passionate performances. Before SPEED, Jem was involved in the band Endless Heights. SPEED's music often addresses social and political issues, with their debut EP "Gang Called Speed" tackling various societal challenges. Their debut studio album, "Only One Mode," released in 2024, further solidified their place in the hardcore punk scene. Jem's dedication to the hardcore punk ethos has made SPEED a prominent name in the genre.

Mr Rhodes - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Mr Rhodes blends soulful future hip-hop with unmatched energy, earning recognition on major platforms and on radio. From early hits like "Wonderous" to the latest release "The World is Mine," he continues to push boundaries. Tours with Winston Surfshirt, Horrorshow, and ILLY cement his position at the forefront.

Elana Stone - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Elana Stone is a multi ARIA Award-winning musician. She has released 4 solo studio albums under her own name. Elana has been a member of Missy Higgins’ touring band since 2018.

She has supported and performed with Washington and Donny Benet, Urthboy, Hermitude, John Butler, Tripod, Josh Pyke, Ngaiire, Bluejuice and Midnight Oil. Her band award winning band All Our Exes Live in Texas has toured with The Backstreet Boys (USA), Passenger (UK) and Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats (USA).

She is a Tour and Events Producer at Craft Music, podcast maker, writer of musicals and mum of two humans.

Agum - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Agum is a Ugandan born, Sydney based artist, with a soulful blend of Soul/R&B with ethereal and captivating Afro themes.

Likened to acts such as Erykah Badu, Nina Simone, and Lianne La Havas, Agum’s ability to enchant an audience with her staggering talent and melodic vitality has been proven on the airwaves (Triple J’s Soul Ctrl with Tyrone Pryor) as well as across the nation touring with Delta Goodrem (Bridge over Troubled Dreams), and opened up for Cap Carter's headline tour, Bella Taylor Smith's national headline tour, Muroki Sydney show and featured on Great Southern Nights festival in Sydney. Agum is building a reputation (and a catalogue to prove it) of being Australia's Soul Queen.

Ange Kent - Keynote Moderator

Ange Kent is a passionate individual with a deep love for music. This passion has opened numerous doors and allowed Ange to explore various avenues within the music industry. With a decade-plus-long career as a music broadcaster at BayFM Community Radio in Byron Bay, Ange has been a familiar voice on air, and currently hosts the Northern Rivers Music Box, a show dedicated to the incredible talent of musicians from the Northern Rivers region.

Ange's passion for music shines brightly both on and off the airwaves! In 2024, she took on the role of judge for the prestigious Bluesfest Busking Comp and is currently judging the ‘BaySounds’ Song Writing Competition, a fantastic collaboration between BayFM and SAE Byron Bay. She's also made waves with media teams at top festivals like Bluesfest, Splendour in the Grass, Falls Festival, and Mullum Music Festival. Not stopping there, Ange has organised gigs for local talent at the Brunswick Heads Picture House and Bangalow Bowlo, all while rocking the role of President of BayFM for the past three years!

Caroline McKnight - Panel Moderator

Caroline is the National Manager, Education & Outreach at APRA AMCOS where she hosts regular webinars and events all designed to educate and guide music creators through the music industry, and also creating professional development and networking opportunities. With a background in visual art, Caroline has previously worked within public programs, arts festivals and art galleries.

Ben Lee - Keynote + Workshop Mentor

Discovered in his teens during the 90s as part of the Aussie lofi punk act Noise Addict, Ben Lee's prolific career has been nothing short of astonishing. Turning his gaze to a solo career in the mid 90s, Ben Lee has established himself as one of Australia's bona fide finest, whether penning chart-smashing hits ('Cigarettes Will Kill You', 'Gamble Everything For Love' and 'Catch My Disease'), instrumental albums (Ayahuasca: Welcome to the Work) or children's albums (Ben Lee Sings Songs About Islam For The Whole Family).

Billie-Jo Porter - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Billie-Jo Porter, known for her rootsy sound that blends Country, Americana and Indie Folk, creates music that heals. After a transformative experience at a Canadian yoga festival, she returned to Australia to work on her debut album with producer Shane Nicholson. The album, which radiates positivity, earned her several accolades and charted at #4 on the ARIA Country Albums chart. Billie-Jo's near-constant touring schedule includes support slots for Thirty Merc, Tim Freedman, and The Sunny Cowgirls, as well as performances at festivals like Groundwater Country Music Festival and Tamworth Country Music Festival.

MO'JU - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

MO’JU is a third gender, third culture kid (Filipino/Wiradjuri) and a multi-disciplinary artist, most widely known for their work as a songwriter and musician.

Recent years have seen them enter new realms of renown, receiving multiple ARIA nominations and much critical acclaim for both their 2023 album ‘Oro, Plata, Mata’ and their 2018 album ‘Native Tongue’, but it is their visceral brand of storytelling which has struck at the heart of audiences far and wide, in a country whose social and cultural climate has been manoeuvring a particular state of unrest and change. Equal parts experimental and soulful, their music traverses a full spectrum of emotion and sonic textures. Marrying together glitchy electronic neo-soul production and masterful songwriting, unbound by genre.

ROSHANI - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Hailed as the 'Breakthrough Artist' of the 2022 Byron Bay Bluesfest, ROSHANI is a genre-blurring artist with a voice that leaves audiences spellbound. Born in Sri Lanka and adopted at six weeks old, she grew up inTamworth, NSW, with her extraordinary life story featured on 60 Minutes Australia, amassing over 10 million views worldwide. ROSHANI crafted her one-woman show while living in her van, busking across the country and following her musical journey wherever it led. Seamlessly shifting between blues, soul, folk, and electro house, ROSHANI creates a truly unique sound using foot pedals, loopstations, guitars, synths, harmonica, and lush harmonies.Her powerful voice and deeply emotive storytelling offer a transformative musical experience that uplifts the soul and captivates listeners from all walks of life.

Nate Weatherall - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Nate Weatherall, a proud Gumbaynggirr and Gamilaroi man, is a music producer, storyteller, and the founder of Mad Proppa Deadly. Passionate about creating opportunities for regional youth, Nate uses music as a tool for empowerment, cultural connection, and personal growth. Through his leadership and creative vision, Mad Proppa Deadly has become a platform for young people to express themselves, build confidence, and share their stories

Ash Sambrooks - Keynote Moderator

Ash lives in the Bellingen area, where he hosts The AU Eclectic, a weekly all-new, all-Australian music show on 2 Triple B FM and nationally across the Community Radio Network. Before choosing a life among the gum trees, Ash owned and operated Higher Plains, a bespoke Melbourne-based PR agency that supported and worked with too many amazing artists and labels to mention.

Nikki Tuckwell - Panel Moderator

Nikki Tuckwell has been with APRA AMCOS for over 10 years, starting as a singer-songwriter and dancer before earning a Music Performance Degree at JMC Academy. Now as the National Education & Outreach Representative, Nikki guest lectures, hosts APRA AMCOS' Insights webinars, and organises member events like Connect Sessions and Equalize.

Romy Vager - Keynote + Workshop Mentor

Romy Vager is the songwriter and front woman of acclaimed Melbourne band RVG. Releasing their third album ‘Brain Worms' in June 2023 the band continued their streak of Feature Album status across radio stations Double J, RRR, PBS and 2SER as well as landing in the Top 5 Vinyl ARIA charts. ‘Brain Worms’ won the Australian Music Prize, AIR Independent Album of the Year & Music Victoria Award for Best Group and received 4 Music Victoria nominations, 4 AIR Award nominations and a J Award nomination. Romy herself was shortlisted for APRA AMCOS Song of the Year for album track ‘Nothing Really Changes’.

Jenny Morris - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Jenny is an acclaimed songwriter, performer and recording artist.Jenny’s musical accomplishments include being inducted into the New Zealand Music Hall of Fame in 2018, winning back-to-back ARIA awards for best female artist, releasing nine albums that achieved gold, platinum and multi-platinum status, and numerous top 5 and top 20 charting singles in both Australia and New Zealand.

Jenny is a passionate advocate for the advancement of music makers and their rights. She is a strong supporter of diversity and inclusion across all areas of the music industry and is actively involved in helping create an equal, safe and secure working environment to that end. Jenny is also a supporter of Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy Australia, presenting the organisation’s biennial ‘Art of Music’ fundraising gala event

Travis Collins - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Travis Collins is a nine-time CMAA 'Golden Guitar' award winner and CMA (America) 'Global Artist Award' recipient. He is as known for piloting country-rock fuelled party bangers as he is sophisticated, thought provoking ballads.

His last album release 'Any Less Anymore' debuted at #3 on the ARIA all-genre chart - the highest by an Australian country artist in over 5 years. He's signed with Universal Music Publishing and frequently collaborates with Nashville's best and brightest songwriters.

Becca Hatch - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Becca Hatch, a Kamilaroi/Samoan Sydney songwriter and musician, first captured the Australian music industry's attention at 16. Known for her intimate yet engaging music, Becca's style has evolved beyond a single genre. In 2024, she released her debut EP, MAYDAY, a project born from a need to redefine herself. The EP features vibrant, raw tracks created in Melbourne in early 2023. Becca's journey includes ARIA chart recognition, a NIMA Award for Best New Artist, and nominations for ARIA and APRA Music Awards. Her music reflects her resilience and refusal to be boxed in by genre or public perception.

Imogen Clark - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Imogen Clark is a Nashville-via-Sydney singer-songwriter known for her storytelling, fighting spirit and dreams. She began her career playing Western Sydney bars and has since performed on global stages. Her songs, like diary entries, capture moments, memories, and confessions from her journey, including battles with anxiety and insecurity. Her new album, "The Art of Getting Through," was recorded in iconic studios like Abbey Road and East West. Imogen has collaborated with notable artists and toured with acts like Dan Sultan and Shania Twain.

Setwun

Setwun is the musical brainchild of singer-songwriter, producer, multi-instrumentalist, and DJ Josh Panakera-Molony. His music, a blend of contemporary jazz, beats, sound system lineages, and electronica, is a medium for self-exploration. Based in Eora (Sydney), Setwun is a respected figure in Australia's music scene. His debut EP "Our World" and collaboration project "Yeah Definitely" showcased his versatility. Setwun's live band project, The Soulstranauts, debuted in Europe in 2022. In 2024, he directed Nu-Dialects at Sydney Festival and performed in Kenya. Setwun remains an in-demand DJ across Australia.

Bonnie Anne - Keynote Moderator

Bonnie Anne is a passionate producer, presenter, media personality, DJ, audio engineer, and MC based on Awabakal land (Newcastle). Through their work with Newcastle Live, they have become a dynamic force in the local music scene, with a strong focus on live event coverage, showcasing emerging talent, and fostering meaningful connections within the community and music industry. Known for their engaging interviews with national and touring icons like Abbie Chatfield, Lime Cordiale and Josh Thomas, Bonnie is dedicated to amplifying other people’s stories.

Nikki Tuckwell - Panel Moderator

Nikki Tuckwell has been with APRA AMCOS for over 10 years, starting as a singer-songwriter and dancer before earning a Music Performance Degree at JMC Academy. Now as the National Education & Outreach Representative, Nikki guest lectures, hosts APRA AMCOS' Insights webinars, and organises member events like Connect Sessions and Equalize.

DOBBY - Keynote + Workshop Mentor

DOBBY is a true force of nature, with his electrifying live performances leaving audiences spellbound. As a rapper, drummer, composer and producer, he brings a dynamic and powerful energy to his live shows delivering an experience like no other. Proudly identifying as a Filipino and Murrawarri musician, DOBBY's roots run deep in the Aboriginal lands from Brewarrina and Weilmoringle in New South Wales.

Karen Lee Andrews - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Karen Lee Andrews is a powerhouse performer known for her soulful blend of blues, gospel, and soul music. Her EPs, including "Far From Paradise" and "EDIN," showcase her unique artistry and storytelling. Karen's live performances are a testament to her dedication, having graced stages at major festivals like Woodford Folk Festival and WOMAD. Her music is deeply influenced by her Polynesian background and her passion for connecting with audiences.

Odette - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Based in Sydney, Georgia Sallybanks, known as "Odette," is an English-born singer/songwriter acclaimed for her soulful and smart pop songs. Her debut album, "To a Stranger," and its follow-up, "Herald," showcase her unique blend of confessional piano-led balladry and spoken-word poetry. Odette's music explores themes of growth and mental health, and she continues to captivate audiences with her powerful performances and genre-bending style.

Darren Middleton - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Songwriter and guitarist with award winning, much loved band, Powderfinger. Following Powderfingers conclusion, Darren has pursued a solo career releasing 4 albums, also working as a composer for film and television. He continues today working in many aspects of our music industry including mentor programs.

Lance Gurisik - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Lance Gurisik is an ARIA Nominated and Multi APRA Screen Award-winning composer from Sydney Australia. Both of his albums Cull Portal and Proffer were The Guardian UK's Contemporary Album Of The Month 4/5 stars in 2023 and 2024. John Lewis wrote: Gurisik’s startling album – think Aphex Twin meets Keith Jarrett – combines jazz, electronica and contemporary orchestral music to compelling, coherent effect.

Hau Lātūkefu - Keynote Moderator

With 30 years of writing and performing under his belt (the majority of those years as the front man for ARIA award-winning duo, Koolism),a former presenter of the triple j Hip Hop Show, current radio presenter on ABC’s Double J and Radio Australia, a record label director (Forever Ever Records via Sony Music Australia), and now a published author of ‘King’, Hau has lived on all sides of the performing arts worlds.

Hau is a pioneer of the local hip hop scene and has featured on over 40 studio releases outside of his work with Koolism providing guest vocals for local legends like The Hilltop Hoods, Urthboy, Resin Dogs and Hermitude, as well as the new generation including Remi and Briggs. Hau’s collaborations also extend to overseas artists including Rodney P, Casual and Oddisee. In 2015 Hau ventured into solo territory with his mixtape, “Football, Feasts & Funerals” and his solo debut album “The No EndTheory".

Caroline McKnight - Panel Moderator

Caroline is the National Manager, Education & Outreach at APRA AMCOS where she hosts regular webinars and events all designed to educate and guide music creators through the music industry, and also creating professional development and networking opportunities. With a background in visual art, Caroline has previously worked within public programs, arts festivals and art galleries.

Montaigne - Keynote + Workshop Mentor

Montaigne is one of Australia's most accomplished and eclectic music artists with award-winning work spanning the recording, theatre and games industry. Notable work includes representing Australia at Eurovision, collaborating with Austin Wintory and Tripod on the AGDA Game of the Year winning Stray Gods, and performing on viral hit Red Flags with Tom Cardy, among many more things!

Lachlan Stuckey - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Lachlan Stuckey is an ARIA-nominated guitarist, DJ and label operator based in Coburg, Victoria. Splitting his time between playing in instrumental group Surprise Chef and running his College Of Knowledge Records label, Stuckey remains committed to supporting the progress and growth of instrumental soul music in Melbourne. Stuckey's playing can also be heard on recordings by Ella Thompson, The Pro-Teens, Let Your Hair Down, The Lahaar and Cantrips.

Jem Cassar-Daley - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Jem Cassar-Daley, a rising star in Australia's indie-pop scene, has captivated audiences with her celestial vocals and timeless songwriting since her 2021 debut. A proud Gumbaynggirr/Bundjalung woman, her accolades include NIMA New Talent of the Year (2022), QMA Artist of the Year, and AIR Song of the Year (2024).

Dallas Frasca - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

Dallas Frasca, an award-winning songwriter from North East Victoria, has forged a globally acclaimed career spanning almost two decades. With over 1,100 performances worldwide, including the Sydney Opera House and 40,000-strong crowds in France, her electrifying stage presence is undeniable. Her 2024 independent release, Force of Nature, debuted at #2 on the ARIA Charts, while her song “All My Love” earned 3rd place in the International Songwriting Competition from over 16,000 entries. Frasca has released four studio albums, 2 EP’s, each highlighting the depth and artistry of this accomplished songwriter. Frasca blends electrifying guitar riffs, bold acoustic waves, magnetic melodic vocals, and modern gospel hues, crafting a rich and enduring musical legacy.

L-FRESH the LION - Panel Discussion + Workshop Mentor

L-FRESH The LION is an ARIA Award and Double J Artist of the Year nominee who has shared the stage with icons Nas, Dead Prez and Sir Elton John. He is Artistic Director of Campbelltown Arts Centre’s Conscious, and founder of Village Boy Entertainment, a creative facilitation company that serves as a bridge between artists and the music industry.

Sosefina Fuamoli - Keynote Moderator

Sosefina Fuamoli is an award winning Samoan-Australian music journalist, broadcaster, and content producer. Since 2010, she has worked in Australia and overseas markets; covering artists and events, while championing Australian music, emerging artists and above all, a more diverse and culturally enhanced music culture. She is also an industry speaker and facilitator, having appeared on and hosted keynote discussions at events including Splendour in the Grass, Melbourne Writers Festival, Melbourne International Film Festival and BIGSOUND.

Her work has been featured in titles including Rolling Stone Australia, Junkee, NME Australia, The Age, The Australian and more, while she can currently be heard hosting weekly music interview show ‘On The Record’, for ABC Pacific / Radio Australia, as well as ‘Sista Sounds’ - a dedicated radio show on the network to amplifying women’s voices throughout the Oceanic region.

Tim Eilenberg - Panel Moderator

Tim is an Account Manager at APRA AMCOS within the Writer Services team. In his role, he provides support to a select number of members, including high-profile and emerging songwriters. Tim works closely with his accounts to help them connect, collaborate and strengthen relationships across the music industry. Tim provides information to member inquiries – typically relating to royalties, licensing, copyright and performing rights.

Tim is passionate about Australian music and his extensive knowledge and experience include venue booking, festival programming, radio hosting, and performing as both a musician and a DJ.