Brooke Seabrook named as 2026 Thornton Young Award winner

Lindsay Waddington Music and the Country Music Association of Australia (CMAA) are proud to announce Brooke Seabrook from Southeast Queensland as the winner of the 2026 Thornton Young Award.

The award will be presented to Brooke during the highly anticipated Back to the Bush Concert at Bicentennial Park as part of the 2026 Tamworth Country Music Festival.

The Thornton Young Award is dedicated to discovering and supporting emerging talent in Australian bush and heritage music. As part of the award package, Brooke will have the opportunity to record a brand-new single at the renowned LWM Recording Studio, courtesy of Lindsay Waddington Music. This collaboration will provide professional production support and the opportunity to further develop Brooke’s artistry and profile within the Australian country music industry.

Brooke Seabrook’s selection as the 2026 Thornton Young Award recipient marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. With upcoming recording, performance and development opportunities, she is well placed to make a strong contribution to the future of Australian country and heritage music.

Lindsay Waddington Music and the CMAA would like to commend all entrants for the exceptionally high calibre of submissions received this year. The depth of talent made the judging process both humbling and challenging. Sincere thanks are also extended to the specialist judging panel for their time, expertise and dedication in selecting the ultimate winner.

Lindsay Waddington Music and the CMAA also wish to acknowledge and thank the many businesses and individuals who have generously supported the Thornton Young Award through music services, guest appearances and other valuable contributions.

The 2026 Thornton Young Award winner will receive the following opportunities:

• Winner announced and trophy presented at the Back to the Bush Concert during the 2026 Tamworth Country Music Festival
• Recording of a new single at LWM Studio courtesy of Lindsay Waddington Music, including backing musicians, production, mastering and artwork
• Studio music video for the new release courtesy of Lindsay Waddington Music
• Distribution package for the new single courtesy of Blue Shamrock Music and LWM House
• Unique Thornton Young Award trophy featuring a handcrafted gum leaf by John Williamson
• Automatic acceptance into the prestigious 2027 CMAA Senior Academy, including tuition, masterclasses, graduation, meals and accommodation for the duration, courtesy of the CMAA Thornton Young Award Scholarship
• 12-month professional membership with the CMAA
• Complimentary entry into the 2026 Golden Guitar Awards
• Two complimentary 2026 Golden Guitar Awards VIP tickets and Red Carpet walk courtesy of the CMAA
• Special guest appearances at the following events:
* Clarence Valley Country Music Muster
* Gympie Muster
* Tamworth Country Music Festival – Back to the Bush Concert at Bicentennial Park