18/12/2025

Georges River Council is calling on young musicians to step into the spotlight at the 2026 Battle of the Beats event which forms part of the Georges River Youth Festival (GRYFest) held annually in celebration of Youth Week. Whether you're crafting hip-hop beats or shredding on guitar, this is your chance to compete for a share in a $5,000 prize pool.

In partnership with 3Bridges Community, expressions of interest (EOIs) are now open for young amateur musical acts aged 12 to 24 who have a connection to the Georges River area.

Five acts will be chosen to perform at Battle of the Beats. The event will be held at 3Bridges Youth Zone, Penshurst Park on Friday 17 April 2026 and Council will provide professional sound and lighting for all competing musicians.

Competing acts will have the chance to win prizes designed to support their musical journey and help take their talent to the next level.

• First place - $2,000 value.

• Second place - $1,500 value.

• Third place - $750 value.

• Fourth place - $500 value.

• Fifth place - $250 value.

Georges River Mayor Elise Borg said, "Now in its fourth year, Battle of the Beats has grown into a much-loved event celebrating the energy and diversity of our local music scene.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for young people to perform, gain experience, and be part of our vibrant community.

"We welcome every genre, so get involved and showcase your talent!"

Musical acts will be judged by a panel of community judges in accordance with five criteria: creativity, showmanship, audience engagement, musicality, crowd response.

The Battle of the Beats competition gives performers a chance to appear at Battle of the Bridges. This annual event, held in partnership with Sutherland Shire Council, brings together the top three performers from each Council's Youth Week event.

Expressions of interest are open until Sunday 1 March 2026.

To submit an EOI, visit the Battle of the Beats Expression of Interest Your Say page.