New country music festival Longhaul cancelled in its first year

Longhaul Festival has cancelled its inaugural events, just a month after it was announced for early 2027.

The new country music festival, launched by TEG Live and headlined by Kacey Musgraves and Kane Brown, was set to take place in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane in January.

The festival's line-up also featured international names Charles Wesley Godwin, Margo Price, Maddox Batson, Ava Hall and James Barker Band, alongside local acts like Beau Shearer, Denvah, Nathan Lamont, Taylor Moss and Tyla Rodrigues.

A TEG spokesperson shared a statement on the festival's cancellation on Wednesday morning, saying the company was "disappointed in this outcome".

"Despite our excitement to bring this brand-new format to the market for fans, we have realised that unfortunately it's not the right time to launch a new country music festival in Australia," the statement reads.

"We have made the difficult decision to cancel the festival sooner rather than later, to provide certainty to our valued fans and talented artists."

The festival's cancellation arrives days after TEG cut its country music touring department, just six months after its formation.

The Ticketek owner announced in February it would capitalise on the recent boost in country music fans with a dedicated touring brand.

Following the departure of former chief executive Brad Banducci and entrance of replacement Cameron Hoy, the department was axed in cost-cutting measures, according to the Australian Financial Review.

Ticketek has confirmed all tickets will be automatically refunded to the original purchaser. Ticketholders are encouraged to check their email for more information.

Longhaul Festival's cancellation comes as the latest in a string of festivals collapsing.

Longtime events like Bluesfest and Splendour In The Grass have ceased operating in recent years, while regional festival Groovin The Moo returned this year in a reduced capacity.

Newer festivals like Harvest Rock, Souled Out and Park Waves have also been cancelled in recent years.

Annual touring festival Laneway also announced it would be paring back its tour dates for 2027 amid logistical and cost pressures.

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