ENTRIES NOW OPEN FOR NEEDLE IN THE HAY 2026

ENTER NOW TO WIN FROM OVER $50,000 IN PRIZES INCLUDING A 7″ PRESSING OF YOUR SINGLE

Needle in the Hay is an annual competition and event run by Happy Mag which champions and empowers emerging bands and musicians at a time they need it most in their careers.

With a prize pool of over $50,000 including vinyl pressing, high quality recording gear, and plug-in packages, the competition has been carefully curated to give artists the shot in the arm their projects need.

Phil Jamieson

Phil Jamieson is best known as the frontman of Grinspoon, one of Australia’s defining alternative rock bands of the last 30 years. Outside of Grinspoon, Jamieson has continued carving out his solo path with 2022 debut Somebody Else and forthcoming sophomore album 10Charlie.

Vanessa Amorosi

In 2026, Vanessa Amorosi, returned to the stage for a national tour, celebrating 25 years of music, memories, and timeless hits including ‘Absolutely Everybody’, ‘Shine’ and ‘This Is Who I Am’. This milestone marks not only her extraordinary journey, but also the enduring legacy of one of Australia’s most powerful, recognisable and versatile vocalists.

Adrian Breakspear

Adrian Breakspear is a Grammy-nominated, ARIA-winning producer and engineer based in Sydney. After 11 years in London studios and a stint in-house at Sony Music, his credits have included Gang of Youths, Johnny Hunter, Ricky Martin and Pharrell Williams.

Jimi The Kween

 Jimi The Kween is a drag artist, DJ and rising pop force known for creating inclusive, high-energy club spaces. With multiple singles out and more music arriving in 2026, Jimi has shared stages with artists including Kylie Minogue, Kesha and Diplo.

Andy Trieu

Andy Trieu is a broadcaster and pop culture host best known for his work with SBS PopAsia. Across TV, radio and podcasting, he has interviewed global stars including BTS, Stray Kids and Bong Joon-ho, and now hosts The Andy Trieu Show.

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Tom Cameron

As artist and community relationships manager for Ableton, Tom Cameron works directly with many of Australia and New Zealand’s most exciting artists. He also plays keyboard in indie rock band Salarymen and produces his own music as THTC.

Fletcher Matthews

Fletcher Matthews is a Sydney producer, songwriter and mix engineer known for helping shape some of Australia’s most exciting rock and indie releases. Working with artists like Dear Seattle, Trophy Eyes, STUMPS and The Buoys, Matthews has built a reputation for huge emotional mixes, punchy production and pushing bands into bold new territory.

Lucy Blomkamp

Lucy Blomkamp is a Melbourne-based producer, songwriter and composer working across electronic pop, film and alternative music. Alongside her solo work and duo cookii, she has collaborated with artists including 6LACK, Khalid, Ninajirachi and Miiesha, earning an APRA Award and Grammy-nominated credits along the way.

Candace Krieger