Gympie singer-songwriter Linc Phelps is among the artists in the spotlight as the 2026 Sunshine Coast Music Awards prepare to take over The Shed, Palmview this Sunday.
Sunshine Coast Music Awards will take place on Sunday, June 7, bringing together local artists, venues, music workers and industry supporters for a public celebration of the region’s music scene.
The awards arrive as YELO continues to look further across Queensland’s music map, with the 2026 finalist list showing how much talent is moving through the Sunshine Coast, Gympie, hinterland and wider regional scenes.
One of this year’s Artist of the Year finalists is Linc Phelps, a Gympie singer-songwriter whose roots and Americana sound has grown from a childhood guitar habit into a national country music career.
Influenced by artists including Bruce Springsteen, John Prine and Bonnie Raitt, Phelps has built a reputation for honest, gritty songwriting and has co-written with names including Adam Brand, Matt Cornell, The Wolfe Brothers, Gavin Carfoot, Melody Moko and Jen Mize.
His second album, Faith & Sweat, debuted at number two on the ARIA Australian Country Albums Chart, with singles including “Dear Mind”, a duet with Melody Moko, and “Hundred Percent”.
He also recently released a reimagined version of Graeme Connors’ “Prodigal Son”, earning the Queensland country icon’s endorsement.
Live performers announced for awards night
The 2026 ceremony will feature live performances from Gubbi Gubbi Dance Troupe, Chris Cobb, Cora, The Phosphenes, 8 Ball Aitken and Buttermello.
The event will be held at The Shed at Palmview, with gates opening at 4pm, live music in the courtyard from 5.15pm, and the main awards ceremony beginning at 6pm.
Organisers say the ceremony is selling quickly, with limited VIP table packages remaining and public tickets available through Moshtix.
Sunshine Coast finalists show the region’s range
The night will celebrate finalists across categories including Artist of the Year, Live Act of the Year, Musician of the Year, Rising Star, Song of the Year, Venue of the Year and Young Artist of the Year.
Artist of the Year finalists include Katie Noonan, Linc Phelps, Minnie Marks and Nana’s Pie.
Venue of the Year finalists are The Presynct, Norton Music Factory, Kings Beach Tavern, The Nook and Mapleton Public House’s Green Room.
The evening will also include networking, finalist celebrations and a lucky door prize, with attendees going into the draw to win a double pass to Woodford Folk Festival valued at $1500.
The 2026 awards are presented with support from sponsors including Team Musicare, Project Olympus, Sunshine Coast Council, Moshtix, QuEvents, Blackflag Brewery, Mooloolaba Music, Bendigo Bank, Australian Venue Co / Kings Beach Tavern, Ray White Northern Corridor, Diablo and Banana Bender Hotel.
Tickets are available via Moshtix.
Photo: Supplied.
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