From Ipswich to the industry: local artists seize growth opportunity

From Ipswich to the industry: local artists seize growth opportunity

27 August 2025

Seven Ipswich trailblazers will represent the city's music scene at Australia's leading music industry event, thanks to a council initiative.

Five musicians, a music educator and a manager have been selected to represent Ipswich at BIGSOUND 2025, set to be held in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley between 2-5 September.

Musicians Damien Johnson, Sam Wylie, Dustin Schmidt, Paulina Schueman, Levi Podlich and manager Nicole Schueman were selected along with musician and music educator Michael VanderPutten.

Ipswich City Council Economic and Cultural Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said the initiative was supported by the Queensland Government's Regional Arts Development Fund and delivered in partnership with Arts Queensland.

"I congratulate those selected to represent Ipswich on the national stage, they represent a diverse cross-section of our local music industry from performers through to those who support, mentor and build networks for others," Cr Augustine said.

"The attendees will receive networking support from QMusic and connect with regional musicians from other parts of Australia - which can be vital in the development of musicians given the nature of the industry.

"Music is a collaborative art form, so representing Ipswich's thriving music scene at the nation's leading industry event is not only a great opportunity for the artists attending, but for our music scene as a whole. The artists attending will share their learnings and insights from BIGSOUND to the broader Ipswich music community at November's Westside Scramble at Studio 188.

"This initiative not only strengthens the careers of individual creatives, it also builds capacity and visibility for our city's music sector.

"We are very proud of the Ipswich arts scene as a whole, and initiatives like this demonstrate council's commitment to help develop not only individual talent, but the collective diverse arts sector we have in our city."

To learn more about the opportunities from the Regional Arts Development Fund, visit creatorsofipswich.com.au