QMA2025: Norton Music Factory's Impact on Local Scene

Nestled in the industrial heart of Caloundra, the Norton Music Factory is a hub of passion and giving, and comes alive after dark on gig nights. Run by a dedicated duo, Liam and Renae Norton - Liam who juggles his day job as an electrician with his nighttime role as the venue’s lifeblood. Renae, a safety specialist by day, keeps the venue in order working across customer relations, and is instrumental in setting the venue up for live gigs.

The Norton family's commitment to creating a space where music and community thrive is nothing short of inspiring.

Norton Music Factory (NMF) has a deep connection to local charities. The venue regularly hosts benefit gigs and fundraising events, ensuring that the power of music extends beyond entertainment to make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s supporting local youth programs or raising funds for health initiatives, a focus of Norton Music Factory is giving back. The three charities NMF supports are: Inclusive Kids - a community fund for  supporting children who lack the necessary financial resources; Strong Women Talking - a First Nations program helping to break the cycle of violence; World Vision Young Mob - a First Nations youth program empowering the voices of First Nations youth.

NMF started out as a custom guitar workshop, born from a deep love for guitars. The journey began in 2010 when Liam, a former drummer, fell in love with his bandmate’s triple humbucker 1970s custom guitar. Unable to find a similar guitar within his budget, Liam decided to build his own. After several false starts, and trial and error, he finally crafted his first custom guitar. This passion project quickly turned into a business when a friend placed an order for a Norton custom guitar.

By 2012, NMF was officially born. Initially focused on creating unique guitars, the business soon evolved in unexpected ways. After hosting a few private parties and filming music videos, the demand for live shows grew. Local bands began reaching out to play at the venue, and the public eagerly awaited the next event. What started as a custom guitar workshop organically transformed into an intimate and thrilling live music venue. Supporting local charities like The Dunga Derby through these events became a core part of their mission. Today, Norton Music Factory is celebrated as "A Paradise for Music Lovers," offering an unparalleled live music experience that continues to resonate with the community.

This year, Norton Music Factory isn’t the only Sunshine Coast highlight making waves at the QMA. We’re also cheering for The Station SC, a finalist in the Accessible Venue of the Year category, and the ever-popular Big Pineapple Festival, which is up for Festival of the Year. Our very own The Dreggs, are in the running for Album of the Year with their latest release.

Caloundra has a proud history of shining at the QMA. Last year, Kings Beach Tavern took home the title of Regional Venue of the Year, and in 2023, the Caloundra Music Festival was crowned Festival of the Year. It’s clear that our town isn’t just a beautiful place to live; it’s a thriving hub of quality musical talent.

Good luck to Norton Music Factory and all our local finalists! The Queensland Music Awards are held at The Fortitude Music Hall on Tuesday 25 March.