Get in the mix: UON’s DJ Comp Comeback

Twelve young and talented DJs of all styles, genres and skill levels are taking to the decks to secure a spot in the finals at the University of Newcastle’s annual DJ Competition.

Wednesday at the Bar on the Hill will the competition will make it’s first successful face-to-face return after last year’s live stream of the event.

Last year's competition winner, Samantha Mills (SMILLZ) says, “face-to-face DJ'ing is definitely better than live streaming in my opinion. You feel so much more connected to your audience.”

With the pandemic closing clubs and restricting dancing, many young DJs have been left “stuck and struggling,” Sam says.

“Many of us rely solely on the income of DJ'ing, personally the pandemic has closed off a lot of opportunity for me, my residency at a club I regularly perform at stopped and still hasn’t started again.”

The competition will give young DJs a chance to showcase their talent and get back behind the decks of some of Newcastle's most popular clubs.

They will be judged on their mixing, song choice, stage presence, set structure, flair, and audience engagement; the winner will also be taking away a paid headline set at Bar on the Hill, paid gigs for university events and a press pack (inc. photos, logo and a live stream set).

With last year’s setbacks, the competition is a catalyst for young DJs to get recognised and start networking with other professionals in the industry.

“It’s a great way to get your name out there, get new experience and meet other DJs,” Sam says.

“There are always agencies and clubs looking for the next great DJ to employ, so it’s definitely great to get out there and meet those people!” she says.

Sam encourages both experienced and aspiring DJs to compete as it's not only a great networking opportunity but lots of fun.

Another DJ competing in the finals on Wednesday, Neil Broome (XPOSED), says, “it's a very welcoming crowd and everyone from the MC to the judges, to the organiser (Hugh Gordon) are supportive and encouraging”.

“The judges are established DJs in Newcastle as well as club organisers, I’ve certainly benefitted from talking to these guys – both through getting gigs, general advice and help,” he says.

Get involved and join the crowd this Wednesday at Bar on the Hill to see who will take out this year’s title, or take the stage yourself and register for next year’s competition at https://www.newcastle.edu.au/