What’s Happening?
Entries are open for the Peter Blundell Memorial Talent Search, inviting emerging country artists to perform on Great Keppel Island.
The live competition will take place on Friday, 13 November, as part of the 2026 Sunset Sessions. Entries close 5 October, with no age restrictions for emerging performers.
Why It Matters
The competition honours the late Peter Blundell, a passionate supporter of emerging talent. He also started Country on Keppel, which previously brought live country music to the Great Keppel Island Hideaway.
The memorial talent search continues his commitment to creating opportunities for emerging artists. Performers can gain live experience, industry exposure and mentoring from established Australian country artists.
A panel of award-winning artists and music industry professionals will select the finalists for the live competition.
Local Impact
The talent search will kick off Sunset Sessions on Great Keppel Island, bringing emerging performers together with established artists and industry professionals.
Previous finalists have travelled from as far as Western Australia and New Zealand to compete. Last year’s winner, Lily-Grace Grant from Northern NSW, will return to Great Keppel Island this November to perform.
By The Numbers
- Five finalists will be selected to compete live on Great Keppel Island.
- 2026 marks the year the talent search will kick off Sunset Sessions on the island.
- 2025’s winner, Lily-Grace Grant from Northern NSW, will return to perform at this year’s event.
Zoom In
The winner will receive a Takamine guitar and road case, along with mentoring to support their development as an artist.
All finalists will also receive in-person mentoring from Australian country artists James Blundell and Lyn Bowtell. The sessions will give performers guidance from two artists with extensive experience in the Australian country music industry.
The competition welcomes emerging performers of all ages.
Zoom Out
The Peter Blundell Memorial Talent Search aims to continue Peter Blundell’s commitment to emerging artists. The competition provides a platform for the next generation of country performers while connecting them with established artists and music industry professionals.
Its reach has previously extended beyond the local region, with finalists travelling from across Australia and New Zealand to participate.
What To Look For Next?
A judging panel will select the finalists before they travel to Great Keppel Island for the live talent search.
The winner will also receive further mentoring opportunities after the competition.
