Personal tale takes out Surf Coast Song Contest

A YOUNG up-and-coming local singer-songwriter has taken out this year’s Surf Coast Song Contest, an initiative of Art of the Minds.

Zane Tullio, 20, reigned supreme with his heartwarming song Paint the Leaves, impressing an audience of more than 100 people during the finalists’ performances at the Torquay Bowls Club.

Designed to engage and inspire through creativity and self-expression, this year’s Surf Coast Song Contest once again was on the lookout for songs that reflected hope and wellbeing.

Mr Tullio’s special song was written about helping a close friend during a time of hardship, with his lyrics said to be “deeply personal and special”.

 

For his efforts, the local youngster was awarded $1,000 cash, a recording with professional producer Tin Hinwood, eight hours of studio time from Oxygen Music and a $200 voucher for Music Workshop.

Coming in second was Ian Dickson with Take Control, while third went to Farah with her song Swim.

Surf Coast Song Contest curator Lukey Luke said the night far exceeded expectations.

“Our ten finalists were incredible. It was really hard to whittle it down to the top three, who then played again before deciding a winner.

“There was a lot of emotion in the room, which helped contribute to its success.

“Out of the top 10, and top three, Zane’s songwriting was most in line with the theme… it was quite a personal song and delivered in the right way.

 

“Any of the top three really could have won, but it went to Zane because it was just a little bit more relevant.”

Mr Luke said the 40 entries the competition received this year was on par with the past five or six years of the event.

“It’s a great event, and there was plenty of people who want to keep it going for many years to come.

“The prizes were once again fantastic, and we are very appreciative of the support.”

For more information, head to The Art of the Minds website.