The ROSS LIPSON
AWARD

The Ross Lipson Award is A JOINT INITIATIVE presented each year by Sweethearts Foundation and Queenscliff Music Festival

Since 2014, this award acknowledges and encourages a local female working within the music industry, who has/will continue to develop and support emerging artists in the local music scene and the region.

Ross Lipson founded Sweethearts in 1989. What began as a small after-school group grew into a nationally and internationally recognised program, with performances across Australia, Europe and the USA, and at festivals including Montreux Jazz Festival and Porretta Soul Festival. The band has also collaborated with renowned artists such as Gil Askey, Bernard Purdie, Vivian Sessoms and Pee Wee Ellis.

Ross created a unique world leading music program for young female performers from the region, linking learning and professional delivery in the industry through a Certificate IV Music qualification.

This award honours his vision and his commitment to creating opportunities for young women.

Nominations close on November 19th 2026, 5pm.

Apply Now


Award presentation

The award is announced and presented at Queenscliff Music Festival, immediately following the Sweethearts performance.

The prize

  • $1,000 cash (from the Sweethearts Foundation)
  • 2 tickets to Queenscliff Music Festival
  • Commemorative plaque

Eligibility

  • Lives in the Barwon South West region (Geelong, Surf Coast, Bellarine)
  • Identifies as female
  • Works in any area of the music industry (e.g. performance, production, management, teaching, promotion)
  • Actively supports and mentors young people in music
  • Contributes to the local music community

Selection process

  • A call for nominations will be advertised outlining dates for nominations to be received. – Nominations close 5pm Thursday November 19th.
  • Nominations open to the public (including self-nominations)
  • Closing date: 19th November 2026
  • A panel selects the recipient

After the award

Recipients are required to provide a short report within six months outlining how the award supported their work.

Content from the presentation may be used by Sweethearts Foundation for future promotion of the award.

The Sweethearts bring an exciting new energy to the soul genre, touring and performing globally.

Quick Links

Social