In a bold and welcome evolution of its programming, Triple J is launching Country Club in 2026, a dedicated country music show that signals the broadcaster’s growing commitment to diversifying its sound and audience.
Announced as part of the ABC’s 2026 content slate, the show will be fronted by Yorta Yorta man Tom Forrest, better known as Outback Tom, who will broadcast weekly from the remote Kimberley region.
The station has built its reputation on being a champion of youth driven, alternative music but now with Country Club they’re recognising that country music deserves a space within that narrative.
Under Outback Tom’s guidance, Country Club promises more than just chart topping country hits. The show is expected to spotlight both fresh voices and established artists, with Forrest’s unique perspective rooted in First Nations culture and his ties to the land. Broadcasting from the Kimberley region is also a statement and offers listeners a window into a region that is deeply tied to country music’s stories of place, tradition and identity.
Beyond the music, the show aligns with Triple J’s broader 2026 agenda; keeping its focus on finding and supporting new local talent and making content that feels fresh for young audiences.
As Triple J approaches its 50th anniversary, Country Club could be one of its most culturally significant launches offering a fresh frontier for country music fans and the country curious, positioning the station as an even more inclusive hub for music diversification.
