IPSWICH’S growing music scene stepped onto one of the Australian industry’s biggest stages last week, with a diverse contingent of local musicians and creatives flying the flag for the city at BigSound 2026.
Billed as the biggest week in Australian music, BigSound takes over Brisbane each September, bringing together emerging artists, established industry leaders and music lovers from across the country.
Across three nights, about 100 artists perform throughout Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, while the wider program provides opportunities for musicians and industry professionals to network, learn, discover new talent and forge connections capable of taking careers to the next level.
The scale of the event was evident in 2025, when BigSound attracted 14,142 spectators and recorded a total attendance of 34,466 across its sprawling festival and conference program.
Its reach extended well beyond Fortitude Valley, with BigSound reporting a media audience reach of 91.5 million and an estimated $20 million economic impact for Brisbane in 2025.
Against that national backdrop, Ipswich was determined to make its presence felt in 2026.
The contingent sent by Ipswich City Council were musician Angus “Just Gus” Brennan, chameleonic artist and creative Damien Johnson, Northern Lights lead singer Dustin Schmidt, 4ZZZ presenter Bill Storey Smith, Michael from Michael’s Guitar School and guitar repairs, and DJ and artist development professional Jay Collins.
For Brennan, being able to introduce himself as an Ipswich musician while mixing with artists and industry figures from across the country brought a particular sense of pride.
“It felt really special to represent Ipswich at BigSound 2026,” Brennan said. “I couldn’t help but feel a lot of hometown pride as I introduced myself to interstate travellers.”
Brennan took advantage of an important part of BigSound – meeting people.
“I feel incredibly inspired by the amount of talent, ambition and, most importantly, generosity of people in this industry,” he said.
“And I saw a whole band, drum kit and all, perform a show in a kebab shop. That was rad.
“Ten out of 10. A brilliant time was had.”
