On Thursday evening 27 August 2026, we welcomed 25 performers from across all year levels to compete on the stage for the coveted title of ‘Musician of the Year’. Our two sections were Contemporary and Classical, with the Classical section also incorporating Stage and Screen.

We were lucky enough to have two adjudicators who once again brought a wealth of knowledge and professional experience to the event. 

CCB alumnae, Alana Conway, returned to the Marian Theatre for the second time this year, having wowed audiences at the Sesquicentenary Performance Gala in May. She was joined as adjudicator at Musician of the Year by newcomer to Bendigo, Renee Boland. Renee has an extensive career in professional performance and Music Education from Alice Springs and Sydney. 

Alana and Renee offered fresh and inspiring perspectives on the students' performances, offering fantastic feedback for them to work on as they continue to move forward with their performance pathways.

The audience filled half of the Marian Theatre, and there was a great positive energy as students were engaged and very supportive of each other’s efforts.

Victoria Tomkins was awarded Musician of the Year - Contemporary for her stripped-back accoustic/unplugged version of 'Take on Me' by A-Ha.

Lily Hemopo was awarded Musician of the Year - Classical for her performance of 'The Girl Next Door' from the Musical Metro Street.

The winners will have their names engraved on the Musician of the Year shields, and will be awarded these at the Presentation Evening in December.

Thanks again to all families, staff and students for their support of the evening. It was wonderful to see such a variety of performances on show.

Contemporary

• First place – Victoria Tomkins (voice/piano)
• Second place (Tied) – Henry Hetherington (drums) and Tyler Martin
• Audience pick – Henry Hetherington
• Emerging Artist – Tyler Bumpstead
• Third place – Romulus Milsom

Classical

• First place – Lily Hemopo (voice)
• Second place – Lachlan Fitzpatrick
• Audience pick – Johara Mistica
• Emerging Artist – Imogene Sea
• Third place (Tied) Mia James and Johara Mistica