A Songwriting Showcase – Free Songwriting Workshop

Have you ever wanted to write a song, tell a story through music, or learn more about the creative process behind songwriting?

Join Townsville artists Sarah Lane, Joshua Lane (The Lanes), Rudy Matoy and Jimmy James for a free 90-minute interactive songwriting workshop designed to inspire creativity, build confidence and develop practical songwriting skills.

Suitable for all ages and experience levels, this hands-on workshop will explore the foundations of songwriting, including lyric writing, storytelling, song structure, melody development and creative expression. Whether you’re an aspiring songwriter, a musician looking to develop new skills, or simply curious about the art of songwriting, this workshop provides a welcoming and supportive environment to learn and participate.

Participants will gain insight into how songs are created, from the first spark of an idea through to a finished piece of music. Facilitators will share their own creative processes, songwriting techniques and personal experiences as working musicians, offering practical advice and encouragement throughout the session.

The workshop features four experienced local artists with diverse musical backgrounds. Sarah and Joshua Lane perform as The Lanes, a First Nations sibling folk-country duo known for their original songs and rich storytelling. Joshua Lane is the winner of the Townsville Folk Festival Amnesty International Human Rights Songwriting Competition for his song Let Him Run, which explores Indigenous youth justice. Participants will also learn from Rudy Matoy, recipient of the 2025 Dennis ‘Mop’ Conlon Scholarship, and Jimmy James, a respected Townsville performer and professional singing and guitar teacher at Sing Smart Studios.

Throughout the workshop, participants will have opportunities to contribute ideas, collaborate with others and experiment with songwriting techniques in a relaxed and inclusive setting. No prior musical experience is required, and participants are welcome to bring notebooks, instruments or simply their enthusiasm for music and creativity.

Complimentary catering will be provided by Blak Brew Haus, creating an opportunity for participants to connect with fellow creatives, artists and community members in a welcoming and supportive environment.

If you would like to attend the concert please register separately.

This workshop is part of A Songwriting Showcase, a community arts initiative celebrating original music, storytelling and creative participation in Townsville. The project aims to strengthen community connection, support artistic development and provide accessible opportunities for people to engage with the arts.

Date: Saturday 3 October 2026

Time: 3:00pm – 4:30pm

Venue: Riverside Gardens Community Centre, Townsville

Cost: Free

Suitable for: All ages and experience levels

Places are limited and registrations are recommended.

The Regional Arts Development Fund is a partnership between the Queensland Government and the Townsville City Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

Contact the host of A Songwriting Showcase - Workshop