Jem Cassar-Daley

Performers

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  Jem Cassar-Daley

  Jem Cassar-Daley is the enchanting siren of Australia’s indie-pop scene, captivating audiences with her soulful voice, heartfelt storytelling, and magnetic stage presence. Since her debut in 2021, Jem has carved out a distinct space in the music industry, collecting an array of accolades and cementing her place as one of Australia’s most exciting emerging artists.

  Her evocative songwriting and celestial vocals have earned her widespread recognition, including the prestigious NIMA New Talent of the Year award in 2022 and the QMA Indigenous Artist of the Year award that same year. In 2024, she was crowned the Queensland Music Awards’ Best Pop Award winner and took home Song of the Year for her poignant track "King of Disappointment." Further solidifying her status, she also claimed the AIR Music Awards’ Song of the Year title in 2024 and the 2025 Queensland Music Awards’ Indigenous Artist of the Year.

  Jem’s music has resonated far and wide, propelling her into the spotlight on major stages across the globe. She captivated audiences at The Great Escape in the UK in May 2023, where she graced five coveted showcases. That same year, her spellbinding rendition of "The Sweet Escape" on triple j’s Like A Version left listeners in awe. Continuing her live performance streak, she lent her ethereal presence as a supporting act for Busby Marou, Kita Alexander, King Stingray, Thelma Plum, Peter Garrett, Tina Arena, Jess Mauboy, Tim Finn and Dan Sultan.

  Beyond her musical brilliance, Jem proudly embraces her heritage as a Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung woman, infusing her artistry with a deep sense of storytelling and cultural richness. Her sound is shaped by the influence of iconic artists such as Missy Higgins, Phoebe Bridgers, Angus & Julia Stone, Joni Mitchell, and Carole King, creating a signature blend of indie-pop with a timeless allure.

  As she continues to rise, Jem Cassar-Daley remains an undeniable force in the Australian music landscape. With each performance, she delivers an ethereal experience that lingers in the hearts of listeners, making her an artist you won’t want to miss.

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  Paul Kelly

  Over forty years and across thirty albums, Paul Kelly has made himself unique among world songwriters by the sheer range and innovation of his work. Few songwriters find ways to keep that creative fever burning for as long and as brightly as Kelly. From St Kilda To Kings Cross, from the bus ride through the cane in To Her Door to the span-of-life sweep of Deeper Water, Kelly has written the soundtrack to Australian life. He has penned songs about the country's greatest cricketer in Bradman and its most infamous bushranger in Our Sunshine. Some songs take their time to make their mark - How To Make Gravy, a message from a prisoner who can't be home for Christmas, wasn't a hit when released in 1996 but is now recognised as an Australian classic. Kelly's artistic restlessness has led him down fascinating paths. He's set Shakespeare sonnets to music (Seven Sonnets And A Song), created albums ranging from bluegrass (Smoke) to experimental dub (Professor Ratbaggy), and collaborated with jazz pianist Paul Grabowsky (Please Leave Your Light On). His 2017 album Life Is Fine became his first No 1 album and that year Kelly won two ARIA Awards. He has received 17 ARIA awards for recording and five APRA awards for songwriting and was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 1997. His Order of Australia in 2017 acknowledged distinguished service to the performing arts and the promotion of the national identity.