Groundwater Country Music Festival Unveils Second Wave Of Artists For 2025

Groundwater Country Music Festival (CMF) is going all in for 2025, proving once again that the Gold Coast isn’t just where the beaches are, it’s where country lives.

ARIA Award-winner Casey Barnes, US alt-country queen Nikki Lane, and pop-turned-country powerhouse Amy Sheppard headline the second wave of artists announced today, further supercharging what’s already shaping up to be an unforgettable three-day celebration of country music, sunshine, and soul by the sea.

“Groundwater will always hold a special place in my heart for so many reasons,” said Casey Barnes.

“It was one of the first festivals to give the band and me a go when it all began, it's right here in my own backyard on the Gold Coast and some of my all-time favourite memories on stage have happened at Groundwater. We're beyond pumped to be part of the massive 2025 line up and can't wait to bring another huge show to fans this October!”

Barnes is set to deliver not just one, but two major moments on the Groundwater CMF stage, with a high-energy full-band performance and an intimate solo set. It’s another peak in what’s already been a landmark couple of years including Golden Guitar win, a chart-topping album Mayday, and a huge international showing at Stagecoach Festival in the US. 

Joining him is Nashville’s own Nikki Lane, returning to Australia for the first time in over a decade. With her vintage edge, bold attitude and unmistakable style, Lane has carved out a fearless path through country music. Fresh from opening for Chris Stapleton and releasing her latest single Mind Made Up, she’s a perfect fit for Groundwater CMF’s ever-expanding scope.

Festival Director Mark Duckworth says this latest announcement reflects the festival’s passion for showcasing the genre in all its rich and rebellious glory.

“Groundwater is more than just music, it’s about creating space where country can thrive, from traditional roots to bold new directions,” said Duckworth.

“We’re building a home for country on the Gold Coast that celebrates Aussie talent and welcomes the world.”

Also landing in this lineup drop are rising stars, award-winners and returning favourites: think The Pleasures, Central Coast’s own Ruby Shay, Texan songwriting standout Vincent Neil Emerson, Australian Idol 2024 winner Dylan Wright, The Voice breakout artist Duncan Toombs, and country-rock trailblazer Abbie Ferris.

There’s also news of an expanded festival footprint in 2025. Hayley Jensen will bring her powerhouse vocals to The Star Gold Coast part of a growing venue and artist offering that’s making room for even more country across the city.

And in a first for the festival, local legends The Pickups have been announced as Groundwater CMF’s house band, supported by the EGC Arts Fund a move that signals continued investment in local and emerging talent.

With over 40 artists set to perform across the beachfront precinct from 17-19 October, Groundwater CMF is not your average country music festival, it’s a coastal takeover, where country beats meet ocean breezes, and stages pop up in parks, bars, balconies and beyond.

Now in its twelfth year, Groundwater continues to deliver world-class country music in one of Australia’s most iconic holiday destinations. And with support from Experience Gold Coast and the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland, it’s a key date on the calendar for fans, families, and anyone keen to experience the genre’s next evolution.

SECOND ARTIST ANNOUNCEMENT

Casey Barnes

Nikki Lane

Amy Sheppard

Vincent Neil Emerson

The Pleasures

Dylan Wright

Hayley Jensen

Duncan Toombs

Abbie Ferris

Col Finley

DJ Colonel’s Country Music Cottage

Sykamore

Emily Grace Taylor

Michael Honan

The Pickups (official Groundwater CMF house band)

Ruby Shay

Aaron Darcy

Brewn

Country Music Cocktails

Ally Row

Andy Penkow

Greer Sullivan

Don Rogers Band