Performers and host unveiled for the Gold Coast Music Awards in May

Gold Coast rising stars Casey Barnes, San Mei and Peach Fur will perform at the Gold Coast Music Awards, held on May 2 on the beachfront of Surfers Paradise.

Also announced this morning was that Double J’s Sarah Howells will MC the night.

Howells, who graduated from Griffith University on the Gold Coast said, “The Gold Coast is full of amazing talent, with artists like Bobby Alu and Amy Shark absolutely killing it overseas after getting their start here.

“The industry and community in the area have birthed a slew of brilliant venues and music events, cultivating even more talent year after year.”

Since setting up, the awards have put a focus on the region’s music talent, and brought national and international recognition for Shark, Grammy nominee Fisher, Hollow Coves and Paces.

Nominations close 5pm on Wednesday (Feb 27) with finalists announced on April 4.

All finalists have the chance to be included in the People’s Choice Award, which will be celebrated with am industry launch event at Skypoint on April 16.

This year’s judges are Cindy Jensen (Buskers by the Creek), Dan Carroll (City of Gold Coast), Donna Weston (Griffith University Queensland Conservatorium), Julia Bridger (Bleach* Festival), Kirsty Abrahams (artist), Mark Duckworth (Blues on Broadbeach), Matt Webber (ABC Radio),  Ryan Van Gennip (Australian Music Week) and Trina Massey (Association of Artist Managers).

The Gold Coast Music Awards kick off the four-day Surfers Paradise LIVE festival (May 2—5) with sets from The Living End, Hoodoo Gurus and The Screaming Jets supported by Daryl Braithwaite, Jebediah, Reece Mastin, Thirsty Merc, Chocolate Starfish, Boom Crash Opera and Bachelor Girl.