ZÖJ duo named best regional act

BALLARAT’S music scene received state recognition last week with intercultural experimental duo ZÖJ being named the Best Regional Act in the Music Victoria Awards.

Announced during a ceremony at Melbourne’s Federation Square last week, the group was one of two local artists in the running for the accolade.

ZÖJ consists of Iranian-Australian kamancheh player and vocalist Gelareh Pour, and drummer Brian O’Dwyer, the latter of whom said the award is an opportunity to reflect on the significance of place.

“Winning this award means a lot to us, but not just because of the recognition,” he said.

“Being named Best Regional Act got us thinking about what it means to be recognised for where you’re from, especially in a country like Australia, where almost everyone has a story tied to migration, dislocation, or colonisation.

“For us, this award feels like a moment to pause and ask ourselves, what does it really mean to belong somewhere? And how does the place we call home shape who we are, not just as artists, but as people?

“In Australia, we can’t talk about place without acknowledging the history and the ongoing presence of our First Peoples, and we also can’t ignore the subtle ways identity gets tied to where you’re from.

“So, to us, this award is as much a prompt for reflection as it is a celebration.”

ZÖJ were unable to receive the award in person due to being in the middle of a national tour.

The accolade follows on from the pair releasing their debut LP Fil o Fenjoon in November last year after more than a decade of performing together.

“It is inspiring to reflect on a Music Victoria Award’s impact on our artists, venues, and festivals,” Music Victoria CEO Simone Schinkel said.

“Previous winners have often shared how these honours elevate visibility and recognition, and this year’s nominees and recipients are worthy of it all.”