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PARTY IN THE PADDOCK
app is live – set times now available

+ TRIPLE J UNEARTHED
winner announced:
SAM McMEEKIN

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The countdown to Party In The Paddock 2026 is officially on! Festival-goers can now access full set times by downloading the Party In The Paddock app and start planning their ultimate weekend. Supported by the Tasmanian Government through Events Tasmania, the festival returns to Quercus Park on the banks of the tilapangka/Liffey River in Lutruwita/Tasmania from February 5–8, 2026, promising four unforgettable days of music, community, and celebration.

From February  5–8, Quercus Park will come alive with a star-studded lineup across six incredible stages: The Paddock Stage, Vibestown Stage, The Bigtop, Silvertongue Stage, The Bullpen, and the home of local emerging talent, Little Island Rising.

The Paddock Stage features powerhouse Australian and international acts including Ocean Alley, Sophie Ellis-Bextor (UK), The Veronicas, Sofi Tukker (USA), The Temper Trap, Flight Facilities (DJ Set), Peking Duk, Ball Park Music, Peach PRC, Mallrat, Genesis Owusu, Baby J, Blondshell (USA), Dune Rats, Billie Marten (UK), Baker Boy, Sons of the East, Old Mervs, In Hearts Wake, The Preatures, Ruby Fields, The Terrys, Stüm and Pretty Girl. Vibestown Stage features alternative and indie favourites such as Glass Media, Krystal Rivvers, Radium Dolls, The Belair Lip Bombs, Mia Wray, Old Mervs, Dune Rats, and Ball Park Music. Silvertongue Stage keeps audiences entertained with comedy, artist interviews, and creative showcases. The Bullpen offers quirky, offbeat experiences, including drag shows, cosmic performances, and crowd favourites such as the Doof Stick Pageant and Bull Riding Comp. Little Island Rising spotlights emerging Tasmanian talent, giving festival-goers the chance to discover the next generation of artists.

From sunrise sessions to late-night headline sets, Party In The Paddock 2026 has something for everyone, a vibrant celebration of music, art, and community.

Download the Party In The Paddock App to navigate the festival with ease: access set times, a festival planner, event info, and a site map. Add your favourite acts, set reminders, and stay updated with live notifications.

Download now: [On iPhone] | [On Android]

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Sam McMeekin

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Tasmanian singer-songwriter Sam McMeekin has been crowned the winner of triple j Unearthed’s Party in the Paddock competition, a milestone achievement that cements her status as one of Australia’s most exciting emerging talents. Bursting onto the national scene with her heartfelt lyricism and infectious hooks, Sam has already built momentum with her debut EP, Tempest and a series of successful singles. Winning the competition not only gives her the opportunity to perform on one of Australia’s most celebrated festival stages but also highlights the growing recognition of her unique voice in the country/pop landscape.

“I am so incredibly thrilled to win the triple j Unearthed Party in the Paddock Competition! It is an absolute dream to perform on this stage, and it feels so incredibly rewarding to share Amelioration on a stage of this magnitude after years of hard work. I cannot wait to share these songs live with fans old and new in such an incredible setting, and cannot thank Unearthed and PITP for the amazing opportunity!”– Sam McMeekin

The win comes as Sam releases her highly anticipated sophomore EP, Amelioration, a 10-track project that delves deep into the personal journey of heartbreak and healing. With standout tracks like “Mental” and “Gazebo,” the EP showcases Sam’s refined songwriting and genre-blending sound, balancing nuanced country textures with indie-pop sensibilities. Produced by Adam Scott-McGuinness and mixed with care by Dan Frizza, Amelioration captures the raw honesty and emotional depth that fans have come to expect. Performing at Party in the Paddock gives audiences the chance to experience her music live, setting the stage for what promises to be a landmark year for Sam McMeekin in 2026.

Quercus Park is just 25 minutes from Launceston, with bus services to and from Brisbane Street and on-site parking for day visitors. Mellow Meadow offers a calm camping spot for families or anyone after a more relaxed vibe.

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Photo – @ZENNIESHIA

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Party In The Paddock celebrates music, community, and Tasmania’s stunning environment. Bring a reusable water bottle, no single-use plastics! Drop off recyclables for free drinks, donate non-damaged camping gear, or borrow a reusable cup with a small deposit. Keep your campsite tidy, and you could win merch or tickets for next year. Swap a bag of mixed recycling at the Recycle Centre (by The Bullpen) for a drink token; staff are there from 12 pm to 9 pm daily.

If you have a tent or unopened non-perishable food you don’t need, donate it on Monday morning to support people in need. This year, we’re partnering with Strike it Out Launceston and OzHarvest to reduce waste and help the Northern Tasmanian community.

Stay hydrated, eat well, and look out for each other. PartySMART staff in blue vests are roaming the grounds to help, ProMED is on hand for medical needs, and the Chill Out Zone has bean bags, couches, games, sensory features, and a private conversation space. The Link offers health and well-being support and self-care items, while Teach Us Consent provides education and support for anyone affected by harassment.

PITP doesn’t condone drugs, and police and security will conduct entry searches, but please stay safe if any are present.

With six stages of live music, emerging talent, and Tasmania’s breathtaking scenery, Party In The Paddock 2026 is set to be unforgettable. Download the app, pack your bags, and get ready for memories that will last a lifetime!

PARTY IN THE PADDOCK 2026

Quercus Park, 15 minutes from Launceston, Tasmania
5th – 8th 2025 February

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Follow PARTY IN THE PADDOCK
Facebook – Instagram – TikTok
YouTube –  Website

Follow SAM McMEEKIN
unearthed profile – Instagram
Facebook – Spotify 

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AMNPLIFY – DB