Grammy-nominated artist Post Malone has been officially announced as the headliner for Australia’s Strummingbird festival, a touring country event set to take place across three dates in October 2026. Presented by Kicks Entertainment, the festival will bring a star-studded lineup to Victoria Park in Ballarat on October 10, Newcastle Foreshore on October 17, and Kawana Sports Precinct on the Sunshine Coast on October 18, promising a premier experience for country music enthusiasts.

Post Malone’s headlining slot follows the significant success of his country crossover album, "F-1 Trillion," which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Country Album. This groundbreaking album featured an impressive array of collaborations with country legends and contemporary stars including Dolly Parton, Tim McGraw, Blake Shelton, Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson, and Jelly Roll. "F-1 Trillion" debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in 2024 and produced the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit “I Had Some Help” featuring Morgan Wallen, marking a pivotal commercial and artistic shift for Malone, who previously dominated charts in pop and hip-hop with hits like “Sunflower,” “Rockstar,” and “Circles.” His appearance at Strummingbird also signifies his return to Australia three years after a sold-out run at Splendour in the Grass, following recent acclaimed performances at Coachella and Stagecoach Festival.

Joining Malone as second-billed headliner is Bailey Zimmerman, one of country music’s fastest-rising acts. Zimmerman’s breakout run includes his highly successful debut album, "Religiously. The Album.," and its 2025 follow-up, "Different Night Same Rodeo," which featured a collaboration with Luke Combs. His captivating cover of Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb” at Stagecoach earlier this year became a viral sensation. Rounding out the top-tier international bookings is North Carolina singer Cooper Alan, known for his popular tracks “Plead the Fifth” and “Take Forever (Hally’s Song).”

The extensive international lineup further includes LA-based country act Stella Lefty, Texan outfit Dexter & The Moonrocks, critically acclaimed Cowboy Carter songwriter Cam, Cigarettes @ Sunset, CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2025 alumna Kaitlin Butts, and rising Californian artist Noah Rinker, alongside Brad Cox.

The Australian contingent is equally strong, featuring Sydney’s Sons of the East, back-to-back CMAA Female Artist of the Year Max Jackson, Central Queensland cattle station turned global streaming sensation Mack Geiger, Brisbane native and 2026 Countrytown Breakthrough Artist of the Year nominee Briana Dinsdale, and Sara Berki. These artists highlight the vibrant and diverse talent within Australia’s country music scene.

Beyond the main stage, Strummingbird 2026 will offer unique experiences. Country DJ Willie Pake is set to headline late-night sets across all three festival stops, ensuring the party continues well into the evening. Additionally, line dancing sessions will be led by the renowned Maddison Glover. Local artists will also have their moment in the spotlight, with Lewis Love performing in Ballarat, Gamilaraay artist Loren Ryan in Newcastle, and Sammy White on the Sunshine Coast, each at their respective hometown dates. Presale tickets for Strummingbird go on sale Wednesday, May 13, with general admission tickets becoming available on Thursday, May 14, accessible via strummingbird.com.au.