BaySounds Winner 20 year old Levi Maxwell from Lismore
SAE Byron Bay College and University, in collaboration with BAYFM Community Radio, is proud to announce the winners of the inaugural BaySounds songwriting competition aimed at showcasing unsigned independent musicians residing in the Northern Rivers region.
This year’s competition received over thirty entries, highlighting the exceptional quality of original music produced in our area. The BaySounds judging panel consisted of industry professionals: Dirk Terrill, musician, composer, producer, and SAE senior lecturer; Ange Kent, BAYFM president and host of the local music show Northern Rivers Music Box; and Nathan Kaye, musician, songwriter, producer, and BAYFM radio presenter.
The winners were revealed during a special segment on BayFM’s Northern Rivers Music Box. First prize was awarded to Lismore songwriter Levi Maxwell for his poignant song “Dear Richmond,” dedicated to the Richmond and Wilson Rivers and the resilience of the community during the floods. Second prize went to the talented Filly Mack from Ballina for her soulful track “She.”
Levi Maxwell will enjoy a recording session at SAE’s world-class studios, accompanied by a filming session conducted by SAE students, as well as a songwriting workshop with renowned songwriter and performer Shelly Brown. The runner-up, Filly Mack, will receive a complete RODE studio kit generously donated by the crew at Broadcast Components, along with a songwriting workshop.
In addition to the main prizes, six recognition awards were presented to local artists: Sam Lily, Billie Skye, Yasmindi, Power Drill, Sam Darbyshire, and Parhelion, acknowledging their contributions to the vibrant music scene.
Excitingly, winners Levi Maxwell, Filly Mack, Power Drill, and Parhelion will perform at the SAE Open Day on Saturday, August 24 between 12 and 2pm. BayFM will be live broadcasting the performance and conducting interviews with the bands, hosted by Ange Kent and Nathan Kaye.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all local artists who entered the competition. Your dedication to your craft is inspiring, and we encourage you to continue honing your skills and to participate again next year.