In 2026 we are proud to present two incredible Artists of the Year!

ARTIST OF THE YEAR : Emma Donovan

Emma Donovan is a celebrated Aboriginal Australian singer and songwriter, known for her powerful voice and heartfelt storytelling. A proud Gumbaynggirr and Noongar woman, Emma began her musical journey at the age of seven, performing with her family’s band, The Donovans.

In 2025, Emma launched her new project, ‘Take Me To The River’, at the Darwin Festival. This show pays tribute to the Black American artists who have influenced her journey, reimagined through an Australian lens.

Emma Donovan’s music is deeply rooted in her cultural heritage, often featuring songs in Gumbaynggirr and Noongar languages. Her work continues to inspire and resonate, making her a vital voice in Australia’s musical landscape.

“Port Fairy has always welcomed me with open arms. To be named Artist of the Year is an honour I’ll carry with me for a long time. I feel incredibly thankful to the festival, the audiences, and to the community for the love and support they continue to show.” – Emma Donovan

We are grateful to have Emma’s ‘Take Me To The River’ as part of our 2026 program and delighted to extend this award to honour her long-tenured career in the Australian music industry and her body of music which continues to connect to its listeners beyond the sound.

emerging artist of the year : Rupert Bullard

Rupert Bullard is an emerging, independent folk artist from Lutruwita/Tasmania. At just 19 years of age, Rupert’s genuine stage presence and resonant songwriting have quickly seen him marked as a rising voice in Australian music. He blends folk storytelling with shades of country and blues, drawing deeply from the rugged coastlines, ancient forests, and layered histories of his island home. 

Rupert recently toured the UK and Ireland and performed a duet with James Vincent McMorrow at the iconic Ruby Sessions in Dublin. The trip was funded by Australian Folk Alliance after Rupert recently became the recipient of the Youth Artist of the Year Award. 

Currently, Rupert is crafting his first full-length album with acclaimed producer John Castle. The quiet unfolding of their creative partnership, in a sleepy corner of Lutruwita/Tasmania, marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Rupert’s rapidly expanding career.

“What a privilege and a pleasure it is to be awarded the Emerging Artist of the Year Award. Playing the Port Fairy Folk Festival has forever been a dream of mine, for I feel that it captures the true essence of what folk music is, a way of sharing stories and bringing people together. To be supported by the festival in this way is truly humbling; I feel extremely excited to perform, and to connect with the broader folk music community at this year’s festival as a Future Folk recipient.” – Rupert Bullard

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