• How to enter

    Developing your entry

    1. Choose a topic that links with biosecurity
    2. Write your song
    3. Type up your lyrics document (Microsoft Word, pdf)
    4. If your lyrics are in a language other than English, find someone to help you translate them to English
    5. Take some photos and videos of the process along the way
    6. Record your song – see our tips for recording below
    7. If you would like to also enter the Dance Video category, see the Dance Video page.

    Have a read of the FAQs to find out more about who can enter and what can be entered.

    Entering the competition

    Entries open 14 July and close 5 October
    You must reside in WA, QLD or NT to be eligible to enter.

    What you will need:

    1. Name and contact details of one person
    2. Song recording (.mp3, .wav or M4A file) OR the YouTube or Vimeo link to your Dance Video
    3. Lyrics document (.docx or .pdf file)
    4. Inspiration document OR video
      • Document: 300 words or less (doc. or .pdf)
      • Video: 2-minute maximum, file less than 350MB (.mov, .mp4 or .M4V format)

    How to enter:

    1. Register to create an account once entries have opened.
    2. If you’re under 18 years of age, include your parent/guardian’s name, phone number and email address
    3. Select the category you are entering
    4. Upload any photos/videos of you creating your entry
    5. Upload inspiration/story behind your entry
    6. Upload lyrics document (.docx or pdf file)
    7. Upload your song audio (.mp3, .wav or.m4V  file) OR insert link to dance video (for dance video category entries only)
    8. Submit your entry

    Tips for recording (songs)

    1. Choose the right recording environment
      • Find a quiet space with minimal background noise.
      • Turn off appliances, mute devices, and close windows and doors.
      • Soft materials (blankets, pillows, carpets) help absorb sound and reduce echoes.
    2. Microphone
      • Phone: The built-in mic on most smartphones is decent for casual recordings but not ideal for high-quality sound. Consider using a lav mic or a clip-on mic that plugs into the headphone jack or USB-C/Lightning port for better clarity.
      • Computer: Invest in a decent USB condenser mic or an audio interface with an XLR microphone. Popular options include the Blue Yeti or Audio-Technica AT2020 for USB mics, or Focusrite Scarlett for audio interfaces.
      • Microphone placement: Keep the mic about 6-12 inches from your mouth. Too close can create distortion, and too far can make the sound thin. Experiment with the distance to find the sweet spot.
    3. Use a recording app
      • Phone: There are several free apps for recording on phones:
        • GarageBand (iOS): Offers a lot of built-in instruments and mixing tools.
        • BandLab (iOS/Android): Free and full of features for multi-track recording.
        • Audacity (Android, with some limitations): A free, basic audio recording app.
      • Computer: You can use software like:
        • Audacity (Free, both Windows/Mac): Great for basic recordings and editing.
        • GarageBand (Mac): Excellent for beginners with lots of preset effects and loops.
    4. Take Your Time
      • Patience is key: Recording and mixing can take time, especially when you’re working with a limited setup. Experiment with different takes, and don’t rush the process.
      • Re-record if necessary: Don’t be afraid to do multiple takes. Sometimes the best recording comes after a few tries.

    See the Dance Videos page for tips on how to record and upload your a Dance Video entry.

    If you have any questions about the competition, you can contact us.

    Contact Us
    Competition Terms & Conditions