Mid West muso stars give back to support next generation

On a chilly night in Busselton, Western Australia, the air was alive with energy as 15,000 people gathered for Triple J’s iconic One Night Stand on Saturday 24 May. The all-ages, drug- and alcohol-free concert brought big vibes and even bigger heart, showcasing the immense talent and spirit of Australia’s music community — and placing regional WA front and centre on the national stage. 

The last time this festival was held in WA, it was right here in Gero with local ‘Unearthed’ band Alex the Kid earning their spot on stage alongside Sampa the Great and Urthboy. With support from WA Music (WAM), Regional Sounds had the incredible opportunity to attend and connect with some of the most influential figures in the creative industries. Among them was Minister for Creative Industries, Simone McGurk, as well as representatives from national music bodies, festival organisers, photographers, sound and lighting technicians, live music venues, and of course, musicians from across WA. These meetings are a vital part of creating sustainable music pathways for regional artists and building stronger networks between metro and regional creative sectors. 

1. Roundtable with WAM and Minister for Creative Industries, Simone McGurk 2. Head of Triple J Lachie Macara 3. Busselton Jetty

OMG, it’s INKABEE! Surprise appearance as part of 3%’s set.

One of the most touching moments came from beloved WA band Spacey Jane, as featured panel speakers they reaffirmed their connection to regional WA — particularly Geraldton. Two of the band’s members, Caleb Harper and Kieran Lama, grew up in Geraldton, so being part of the event was especially meaningful. In a generous show of support for their hometown’s up and coming talent, the band decided not to accept payment for speaking on a panel at the event, and instead donated the fee to Regional Sounds.

Sarah from Regional Sounds got to personally thank Spacey Jane band members L-R Peppa, Caleb, Ashton and Kieran.

This generous contribution will support establishing a permanent lease for Regional Sounds at our hub where we deliver programs that nurture emerging musicians and creatives across the Mid West. It’s a full-circle moment for the organisation, with Spacey Jane’s success now helping the next generation find their own. 

“To be invited to One Night Stand by Triple J was one thing, but it’s through our great relationship with WAM (WA Music) and with their financial support that we were able to travel to Busselton for the One Night Stand concert.

To then be told that Spacey Jane want to donate their fee to our organisation was incredible!”  

Sarah Hinton, Arts Development Officer, Regional Sounds. 

With a rainbow breaking through the sky above the bustling festival grounds, it was a perfect visual metaphor: the storm may roll in, but the promise of something brighter is always near. Busselton’s warmth came not from the weather, but from the shared joy of community, creativity, and connection. As Australian music lovers of all ages filled the venue with song and movement, it was clear — regional music is not just surviving; it’s thriving.