Ridin’ Starts Returns to Back Australia's Next Generation of Country Artists

Australia isn't short of talented country musicians. From regional pubs and small-town festivals to the growing number of independent artists writing, recording and releasing their own music, there's a new generation finding its feet.

The challenge has always been turning that talent into a sustainable career, and sometimes the difference comes down to getting the right opportunity at the right time.

While Ridin’ Hearts Festival is taking a break in 2026, its emerging artist initiative, Ridin’ Starts, is returning for another year, offering one independent Australian country artist the chance to gain valuable industry experience, develop their music and make connections that can be difficult to establish when you're starting out.

Launched in 2024, Ridin’ Starts was created to give emerging artists something beyond the usual competition prize. Working alongside APRA AMCOS and a network of Australian music industry professionals, the program focuses on the practical side of building a career, from songwriting and recording to marketing, distribution and understanding how the business works.

For the 2026 winner, that means one-on-one sessions with industry figures including artist Kaylee Bell, Katie Rynne from Wheelhouse Agency, Natalie Waller from ABC Music, the Ridin’ Hearts marketing team and Frontier Touring's legal team. There will also be music distribution and release strategy support through G.Y.R.O., an artist development session with True South and a day working in The Lock In, Mushroom Music's dedicated songwriting room. Professional publicity photographs, a $500 Love Police merchandise voucher and tickets to two Frontier Touring country concerts are also included, with APRA AMCOS providing return flights, accommodation and transfers to Sydney.

It's a package designed to give an emerging musician a clearer understanding of the industry and the people who work behind the scenes, something that can be just as valuable as time spent on stage.

‘Australia is home to some of the best up-and-coming country music talent’, says Frontier Touring Chief Operating Officer Susan Heymann. ‘Ridin’ Starts was developed to help shine a spotlight on the next generation. While the festival is taking this year off, we wanted to continue to support these local artists’.

The initiative has already helped introduce some promising names to a wider audience. Singer-songwriter Michael Honan became the inaugural winner in 2024, while Victorian artist Ruby Jane took out the competition in 2025 following its biggest year of submissions. Ruby went on to perform on the festival's Lone Spur Stage and has continued building her career through touring, releasing her single ‘Lucky’ and working on new material.

For Ruby, the experience extended well beyond the prize itself.

‘Ridin’ Starts has given me opportunities and exposure that money can't buy’, she says. ‘As an independent artist, being given a platform to share my music, connect with new audiences and do what I love most is invaluable. The prizes were incredible, but the opportunities and support that have come from winning have meant just as much’.

It's an important distinction. With more artists now able to record and release music independently, getting songs out into the world has become easier, but finding an audience and developing the business knowledge needed to sustain a career remains a challenge. Programs that provide access to experienced industry professionals can help bridge that gap, particularly for musicians working outside the major cities.

Ridin’ Hearts has built its reputation around introducing Australian audiences to rising country artists, with previous festival lineups featuring international names including Bailey Zimmerman, Riley Green, Megan Moroney, Sam Barber and Nate Smith alongside Australian performers such as Sara Berki, Lane Pittman and Lewis Love. Although the festival won't be held this year, continuing Ridin’ Starts keeps that commitment to discovering new talent alive.

Entries for the 2026 competition are open to eligible Australian country artists aged 18 and over who are independent and unsigned, with applicants required to be current APRA members. To enter, artists need to upload a video of themselves performing an original song to Facebook, Instagram or TikTok, tag @ridinheartsfest and complete the entry form through the Ridin’ Hearts website.

Entries close "Sunday 6 December 2026 at 11.59pm AEDT", with ten finalists to be announced through Ridin’ Hearts and Frontier Touring's social media channels before an industry judging panel selects the winner.

For an emerging artist with a collection of songs, a growing audience and ambitions to take things further, it's an opportunity worth considering. The Australian country music scene continues to produce remarkable talent, but talent alone doesn't always open doors. Sometimes it takes a little guidance, a few good connections and someone willing to give the next generation a chance.

"Ridin’ Starts 2026 entries close Sunday 6 December at 11.59pm AEDT."

Full eligibility requirements, competition conditions and entry details are available at www.ridinhearts.com.