ENDFM Youth Radio Station wins Sound NSW grant to launch Band Enabling and Training Sound‑lab (BEATS)

The END FM and South West Arts are delighted to announce they have secured funding of $150,000 through Sound NSW’s Contemporary Music Development Grants – Industry Development program to deliver BEATS – Band Enabling and Training Sound‑lab.

Launching later this year, BEATS will pair early and mid‑career musicians, bands and budding live‑sound technicians from New South Wales with leading industry mentors for an intensive, hands‑on pathway into the live‑music and events ecosystem.

“BEATS is about equipping young artists and crews with the real‑world skills, networks and confidence to thrive in today’s music industry,” said Baron de Merxhausen, Station Manager of the END FM. “Thanks to Sound NSW’s support, participants will move from the rehearsal room to a world‑class festival stage in just a few months.”

Program highlights

• Skill development & career pathways – immersive workshops in performance, songwriting, stagecraft, tour planning, audio engineering and event production.
• Industry growth – experienced professionals receive mentor training, building capacity to nurture the next generation.
• Innovation & collaboration – “sound‑lab” residencies encourage experimentation with contemporary production tools and techniques.

• Engagement of regional audiences – high‑profile showcase event and the opportunity for the winner to perform at one of Australia’s most iconic outdoor music festivals – the 2026 Deni Ute Muster.

Benefits for NSW and Deniliquin

• Sustains and diversifies the state’s contemporary music scene by fostering emerging talent.
• Upskills artists, producers, technicians and event managers, supporting sustainable creative careers.
• Positions Deniliquin as a regional music development hub, leveraging the Deni Ute Muster site’s reputation for large‑scale live events.

Get involved

Applications for musicians, bands and production trainees will open in the coming months. Interested participants, mentors and industry partners can register their interest now here!

Media enquiries
Baron de Merxhausen
END FM Station Manager
☎ 0418895686 | ✉ radio@endfm.com.au