With only about 5 weeks to go until the announcement of 6 finalists for the competition, the butterflies in my belly are making themselves more known as each day passes. Especially now that the first two judges have been revealed: welcome Ugly Phil and Kate Vale!

On Twitter the question was asked "Who would YOU like to see on the judging panel?", so here are my choices for the next two spots:

TONY MOTT - photograher

An obvious choice perhaps, but after moving to Australia in 1976, Tony quickly became Australia's premier rock photographer. He is testiment to the fact that sheer passion and unwaivering dedication are key to being successful in your chosen field - especially when it comes to the illustrious and growingly competitive world of concert photography. Tony Mott is the master of capturing any magical festival or concert moment and is, in fact, a very nice guy.

www.tonymott.com

CHRISTIE ELIEZER - music journalist

I read Christie's column weekly. If anyone has their proverbial finger on the pulse, it's him. Christie writes for approximately 23 various publications around the world and has written three music related books, his most recent being High Voltage Rock 'N' Roll (2007). Obviously, he'd be a fantastic addition to the panel of judges to help choose the budding journalists that have that special flair for writing and the dedication to research that is paramount to being a successful music journalist.