Hills Shire Mayor, Councillor Yvonne Keane, has congratulated five talented musicians after they won individual categories in the annual talent competition, Zest Quest.
Mayor Keane, who presented the competition winners with trophies at a special presentation at Rouse Hill Town Centre on Thursday, said she and her fellow adjudicators (The Voice Australia contestant Brianna Holm and General Manager of Rouse Hill Town Centre Dave Moreton) had a tough time choosing the winners from the gifted talent pool.
“Congratulations to all the entrants, particularly the winners who emerged from the extremely tough selection process. I’m convinced this year’s competition could have unearthed our next Aussie superstar,” Mayor Keane said.
“These young people really have what it takes to make a name for themselves in their chosen music field and I can’t wait to see what’s next for each of them.
“I would also like to thank my fellow judges in helping with the award selections; event sponsors for making this talent competition possible; and audience members who came to watch these incredible artists perform at the Orange Blossom Festival. Without sponsors and audience members support, events like this wouldn’t be made available to help promote these talented musicians and dancers, and show off their gifts to the wider community.”
The award categories were divided into two age sub-categories, Junior 6 to 12 years, and Senior 13 to 18 years, to ensure people were competing against entrants of a similar age.
A People’s Choice and an Overall Winner’s award were also handed out on the night, while the Mayor’s Commendation Award was added to the awards line-up.
Mayor Keane said the introduction of a new category reflected the amazing talent on tap in The Hills Shire.
“I was absolutely blown away by the workmanship of these entertainers,” Mayor Keane said.
“I’m sure many hours of practice went into perfecting each of their pieces.
“I’d also like to thank these incredible members for making their works available to the community and adding to the vibrancy of our region,” Mayor Keane added.
The awards, supported by The Hills Shire Council, aim to encourage up-and-coming performers to achieve their musical dreams.
Prizes on offer included vouchers from Rouse Hill Town Centre.
Winners:
| Name | Category | Prize |
| Harry Alexander | Senior Category (Age: 13-18 years ) | Prize: $200 Rouse Hill Town Centre Gift Voucher |
| Stephanie Rose Milostic | Junior Category (Age: 6-12 years) | Prize: $200 Rouse Hill Town Centre Gift Voucher |
| Tyler Moodley | People’s Choice (All ages) | Prize: $300 Rouse Hill Town Centre Gift Voucher |
| Jayd Luna | Overall Winner | Prize: $500 Rouse Hill Town Centre Gift Voucher |
| Liam McDonald | Mayor’s Commendation Award | Trophy |
