Entertainment
24 September, 2026
Creatives take centre stage
MORE than 400 young performers have taken part in this year’s Innisfail Young Performers Competition, turning five days of music, speech and drama into one of the event’s most vibrant years yet.
Now in its 39th year, the competition once again showcased the region’s emerging talent, while offering invaluable guidance from highly accredited adjudicators.
Among the stand-out performers was Lochlan Collinson, who in his final year of eligibility, received five major awards along with numerous section prizes.
“This is truly a wonderful achievement by a very talented and versatile young performer,” said committee chairman Richard Graham said.
“Lochlan has demonstrated exceptional ability across both music and speech and drama – and our community is very proud of him.”
Participants, not only performed in a supportive environment, but also received expert feedback to help them continue developing their craft.
Many formed new friendships along the way, connecting with other young people who share their passion for the arts.
This year’s adjudicators brought a wealth of experience.
Arminelle Fleming, a speech and drama specialist from Townsville’s independent theatre company TheatreiNQ, spent two days encouraging performers with her deep belief in theatre’s power to connect, challenge and inspire.
The music sections were adjudicated by Louise King, an internationally-renowned cellist, artistic director and music education program designer.
Ms King is a guest tutor with both the Australian and Queensland youth orchestras and has collaborated with leading Australian artists, including Katie Noonan and Kate Ceberano.
Committee chairman Richard Graham said the event was “another highly successful competition,” supported by large audiences and excellent venues, including the shire hall, Conservatorium of Music and Good Counsel College auditorium.
He said the championship sections held at the shire hall were particularly special.
“Young people had the opportunity to perform on the Steinway piano, a magnificent, high quality instrument that would not normally be accessible to them,” Mr Graham said.
The choir event was also a highlight, with an estimated 200 students from multiple schools filling the hall with music.
Mr Graham acknowledged the essential contribution of volunteers, sponsors and supporters, as well as Cassowary Coast Regional Council.
“Local businesses, community organisations and individuals play a vital role in keeping the competition running,” he said.
“We are extremely grateful to the volunteers and committee members who worked tirelessly throughout the event. As the competition continues to grow, we will need more volunteers and we warmly encourage anyone interested to become involved.”
Placings for all sections are available on the Innisfail Young Performers website.
Major awards included: Mary Zahra Award: Gisele Jackson. Beavon Family Award: Penelope Blair. Bodnar Excellence Award: Lochlan Collinson.Parakas Family Trophy: Lochlan Collinson. IYPCA Vocal Award: Tiavianna Muir-Malu. Rachel Newcombe Encouragement Award: Gisele Jackson. George Kotzas Instrumental Award (Secondary): Daniel Anderson. George Kotzas Instrumental Award (Primary): Henry Thaggard. Junior Accompanist Award: Lochlan Collinson. Tina Patane Speech Award: Lochlan Collinson. Paronella Park Speech Award: Frankee Genocchio. Rose Selfe Award: Lochlan Collinson. Adjudicator’s Award (Music): Giacomo De Faveri.
Read More: Innisfail