Young performers across Perth’s south east are being encouraged to step into the spotlight, with entries now open for the 2025 Underground Sounds music competition.
Run by the City of Gosnells and presented by the team behind Gozzy Rock, the annual contest gives young artists the chance to perform live and win part of a $5000 prize pool.
Thanks to support from the Cities of Armadale and Canning, the Town of Victoria Park and the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale, entries are now open to young people aged 12 to 25 who live or work in any of those local government areas.
Gosnells Mayor Terresa Lynes said the competition has helped many young musicians get their start.
“The Underground Sounds competition has long provided a platform for budding performers to showcase their talents to a live audience,” she said.
“It’s a great opportunity for young musicians to gain experience and pursue their passion.”
Mayor Lynes said expanding the event with help from neighbouring councils had boosted the prize pool and broadened the talent search.
“We have been incredibly impressed by the talent in past years. Expanding the competition means we’re set to discover even more emerging artists,” she said.
The expanded partnership has been welcomed by all participating councils, who see Underground Sounds as more than just a competition.
In Armadale, where many young musicians are already making waves, Mayor Ruth Butterfield said the event offered a valuable chance for young people to perform, grow and connect.
“The City of Armadale and surrounding areas are home to many talented young musicians, and events like this are a great way to nurture this talent,” she said. “We’re excited to support the event and encourage our young musicians to enter, and we are happy we can contribute to raise the prize pool for 2025.”
Canning Mayor Patrick Hall echoed the importance of backing local talent, saying the collaboration reflected a shared commitment to investing in young people.
“It’s exciting to see local governments come together to create more opportunities for emerging talent,” he said.
That same spirit is shared in Victoria Park, where supporting local artists is already part of community life. Mayor Karen Vernon said the Town was thrilled to be involved.
“We’re excited to expand the opportunities for residents in our Town to showcase their talents this year through the Underground Sounds competition, and to be doing this as part of a great collaboration with our neighbouring local councils,” she said.
And in the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale, where the youth population is growing fast, President Rob Coales said the event was a chance for young people to build real-world experience and confidence.
“Underground Sounds is a fantastic opportunity for young musicians in the Shire to be part of something bigger, and to gain real performance experience,” he said.
“We’re so proud to be part of an event that nurtures local talent, builds confidence and helps the next generation pursue their passion for music.”
“We’re so proud to be part of an event that nurtures local talent, builds confidence and helps the next generation pursue their passion for music.”
Young performers can enter online via the City of Gosnells website. Entries close Friday, September 19.
Finalists will perform live at the grand final on Saturday, December 6 at The Underground youth centre in Southern River.
