The Queensland Music Awards (QMAs) are shaking things up in 2026! For the first time ever, the music awards are ditching Brisbane's city beat—embrace the coast vibe as they head down to Miami Marketta on the sunny Gold Coast.
Why the move? Last year’s event stirred the pot over at Fortitude Music Hall, and let's just say, it caused a wave of drama. But this time, the focus is back where it belongs: on killer music and good vibes!
Kris Stewart, CEO of QMusic, couldn’t be more hyped: “We’re keeping it real by prioritizing music and mates! Think of it as a back-to-roots move that’s all about the tunes.” And while Brisbane’s support waned, Gold Coast and Mayor Tom Tate are totally buzzing to host! “Why wouldn’t the Queensland Music Awards be in Australia’s very own Hollywood?” says Tate. “It's like Miami with beaches!”
What’s new? The star-studded affair boasts a lineup like no other: Jem Cassar-Daley, Dami Im, The Jungle Giants, Amy Sheppard, DZ Deathrays, GLVES, Young Franco, and Meg Washington are just a few of the hot names competing for top honors. And don't forget the major awards: lifetime achievement, album of the year, and song of the year, which even get their own plaques in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley.
Plus, there’s a whopping A$60,000 ($43,000) up for grabs in scholarships—remember the names: Billy Thorpe, Carol Lloyd, Dennis ‘Mop’ Conlon, and Grant McLennan are leading the legacy train, supporting rising stars at critical moments in their careers.
Squares this March 25 on your calendars for the Parliamentary Friends of the Music Industry event, where scholarships winners will get their time in the spotlight. It’s a chance to see who’ll be rocking the charts next!
So, are you ready to dive into this musical extravaganza at the Gold Coast? Save the date for April 22, and join us as QMusic cranks up the volume and celebrates Queensland’s booming music scene in true rock 'n roll style!