How local NT artists can win a spot on the BASSINTHEGRASS 2026 festival bill
BASSINTHEGRASS festival is hunting for homegrown talent to join its star-studded 2026 line-up, offering Territory musicians their shot at performing before thousands.
Territory musicians have the chance to perform in front of thousands and share the stage with the likes of Peking Duk and G Flip, as the BASSINTHEGRASS searches for local talent to join the line-up.
The BASSINTHEGRASS Territory Artist Competition returns for another year, providing a platform for local artists to grow their careers and gain national exposure with a performance slot at the beloved festival at Mindil Beach on May 16, 2026.
Two lucky winners will join the line-up alongside some of the biggest names in Australian and international music, including Peking Duk, G Flip, Kita Alexander, In Hearts Wake, Ball Park Music, Venjent (UK) and JessB (NZ).
Entries are open now to NT musicians across all genres and performing styles.
The winners will each receive a performance slot, artist accreditation, two general admission tickets and a performance fee.
Applicants will be assessed on recording quality, artistic development, and live performance experience.
“BASSINTHEGRASS has a proud history of supporting homegrown musicians, and the Territory Artist Competition continues to be an important pathway for emerging talent,” NT Major Events executive director Aimee Luxton said.
“Every year we see incredible local artists take the stage and prove that the Northern Territory is home to some of the country’s most exciting new voices.
“Our audiences love discovering new Territory acts, and the winners each year bring something unique to the festival. Sharing the stage with established national and international artists is an experience that stays with them for life.”
One of this year’s winners, Crystal Robins, encouraged everyone to enter.
“I think it’s really important to give local artists the opportunity to be on a big stage and part of a big line-up with national and international artists. It’s a great experience,” she said.
“I think we have a great local music scene. It’s really important to support (artists) and give them these platforms and stages to showcase their original music.
“Definitely get out there and enter. Have a go. I didn’t think that I would be chosen, but it happens, so yeah – definitely give yourself a shot.”
Entries close on April 10, 2026, and the winners will be announced on April 24, 2026.
More Coverage
Originally published as How local NT artists can win a spot on the BASSINTHEGRASS 2026 festival bill
Third arrest made over Tennant Creek crime spree, curfew calls grow
