Hinterland musos strike a cord as award finalists and performers on the night
By Sonia Isaacs
TWO hinterland musicians will take centre stage at this year’s Sunshine Coast Music Awards, with Glass House Mountains’ 8 Ball Aitken and Mooloolah’s Chris Cobb both named finalists and performers for the June 7 celebration of the region’s thriving live music scene.
Hosted by the Sunshine Coast Music Industry Collective (SCMIC), the pair will join a stellar lineup of Sunshine Coast talent at The Shed in Palmview, where the 2026 Sunshine Coast Music Awards will recognise artists, venues and industry figures helping shape the region’s creative identity.
Award-winning roots and blues musician 8 Ball Aitken has been nominated for both Live Act of the Year and Musician of the Year, capping off a huge year that has included two American tours, a major Australian tour and extensive studio session work for other artists.
Aitken said the recognition reflected not only his own work, but the strength of the Sunshine Coast music community. “I’m very excited to get to play live there and be nominated for two awards,” he said. “It’s really nice to be acknowledged by the local music industry, and I think everyone’s a winner for being a part of the music scene here on the Coast.”
The veteran performer said creativity remained vital in an increasingly challenging industry. “Being creative is our highest purpose, and you’ve just got to follow your heart with your art,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mooloolah musician Chris Cobb has also earned finalist recognition after nearly four years building his career on the Sunshine Coast music circuit. Cobb, who relocated to the region for its lifestyle and creative culture, said the Coast had become far more than simply a place to live. “I chose the Sunny Coast as my home, my stage, my refuge, and my family,” he said.
Describing the nomination as both humbling and rewarding, Cobb said the honour recognised the hard work of local artists across the region. He said performing on awards night was “the icing on the cake” and encouraged the community to support the event and celebrate local talent.
Finalists span 11 categories, including Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Rising Star, Young Artist of the Year and Live Act of the Year. The awards ceremony will be held at The Shed, Palmview, on Sunday, June 7, with gates opening at 4pm and the main event beginning at 6pm. Tickets via Moshtix.