Published on Wednesday, 12 August 2026 at 12:36:59 PM
Golden Guitar winner Lane Pittman will headline a packed two-day program when the Outback Fortescue Festival returns to Capricorn Oval on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August.
Presented by the Shire of East Pilbara and Newman Lions Club, the free, all-ages festival will feature nationally recognised performers, emerging artists and local favourites, alongside carnival rides, markets, food trucks and family activities.
Entertainment across both days will be hosted by comedian and actor Peter Rowsthorn. Saturday’s live performances will feature Luritja singer-songwriter Keanu Nelson, Arnhem Land’s Drifting Clouds and Western Australian indie rock trio Fool Nelson, with DJ Richmore closing the opening night.
Sunday’s program will feature the Bluey Live Interactive Experience, Stars of the East Pilbara – Outback Karaoke, local performer Darren Field and headline artist Lane Pittman, followed by a fireworks display and DJ Viv.
Shire President Cr Anthony Middleton said the festival would bring the community together for one of Newman’s biggest weekends of the year.
“This is an outstanding line-up for Newman,” Cr Middleton said.
“Lane Pittman is one of the brightest young names in Australian country music, while Saturday’s program brings together exceptional First Nations performers and exciting Western Australian talent.
“The festival is about much more than the stage. Families can spend two full days enjoying free entertainment, rides, activities, markets and food, with something available for every age.
“Events of this scale take an enormous amount of work. I thank our event partners, sponsors, staff, volunteers and everyone involved in bringing another fantastic festival to Newman.”
Around the grounds, festivalgoers can enjoy a chill zone marquee, food trucks, market stalls, Shire activities, free inflatable amusements, sideshow alley, carnival rides, craft workshops and more.
The Bluey Live Interactive Experience will be held at 11am and 1pm on Sunday. Meet-and-greet sessions will be held at noon and 2pm, with bookings required.
Event details:
Location: Capricorn Oval, Newman
Date: Saturday 15 August: 2pm to 10pm and Sunday 16 August: 10am to 8pm
Entry: Free
The Outback Fortescue Festival is an alcohol, drug and smoke-free event.
The festival is supported by Lotterywest, Tourism WA, Fortescue, BHP, National Group, Cleanaway and North West Alliance.
For the full program and event information, visit eastpilbara.wa.gov.au/events.
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