Turn Up brings the music industry home to Nambour

Musicians, producers and music lovers will gather in Nambour on Thursday October 23 when the Sunshine Coast’s leading music industry event, Turn Up, returns for its twelfth year.

Held at The Presynct on Ann Street, the 2025 Turn Up Sunshine Coast Music Industry Conference promises an evening of inspiration, connection and live music for everyone involved in the regional music scene.

Presented by Turn Up Event and Oztix, the program includes two lively “In Conversation” panels designed to spark dialogue and share real-world experience. Topics this year are Cultivating Success: Growing Your Music Career and One Stage, Many Journeys: Festivals & Industry Impact.

Speakers include some of the nation’s best-known names in music and events — Barry Bull OAM, Ian “Dicko” Dickson, Amanda Jackes (Woodford Folk Festival), Mark Pico (Big Pineapple Festival), Melissa O’Bryan (Solbar), Brodie Popple (Oztix), Andrea Smith, David Dean and Eloise Brock.

Eloise Brock, Program Director, said Turn Up offers a rare opportunity for local creatives to connect directly with national leaders in an informal setting.

“Turn Up is an evening of celebration and education, gathering the Sunshine Coast music community together face-to-face with some of Australia’s most inspiring industry leaders,” she said. “This year, we’re focusing on career sustainability and the role festivals play in shaping music culture.”

The event also features roundtable networking and a live showcase by rising Gympie singer-songwriter Elke Louie, known for her heartfelt acoustic style and evocative lyrics.

Music industry legend Michael Chugg praised Turn Up as a vital regional event. “It’s a good thing, and I’m sure there are a lot of people still finding out about it who will really enjoy it,” he said.

• Tickets: $20 + bf pre-sale or $25 at the door via www.turnupevent.com or Oztix.

Ian “Dicko” Dickson.