Returning to lead the charge are festival favourites Kane Pollard, Banjo Harris Plane and Meira Harel, who will again serve as Festival Curators, bringing their deep knowledge and love for world-class food and drink experiences. Joining the team for 2026 are two high-profile additions: Jessica Ducrou, a giant of the Australian music festival scene, and Duncan Welgemoed, the celebrated chef behind Adelaide’s beloved Africola.
Jessica Ducrou, co-founder of Secret Sounds, has been named Festival Advisor. With decades of experience across major events such as Harvest Rock, Splendour in the Grass and Falls Festival, Ducrou brings a fresh perspective to South Australia’s most iconic food and drink celebration.
Award-winning chef Duncan Welgemoed, known for his bold, South African-inspired flavours and long-standing involvement with Tasting Australia, will now officially join the creative team as a Festival Curator. Most recently, he cooked alongside the Parwana team for the Tasting Australia by Train experience.
The new structure will see the four Festival Curators bring their own unique flair to the 2026 program, working collaboratively to push boundaries and create memorable experiences. The Festival Advisor will work in tandem with the curators to ensure the festival continues to evolve while keeping the immersive, guest-first experience at its heart.
Festival Advisor Jessica Ducrou is excited to work alongside the creative and event team to deliver a program “infused with the best in show offerings and fab South Australian hospitality”
Festival Curator Duncan Welgemoed believes the festival is a rare platform that champions both emerging and established voices in food and drink.
The magic of this festival is the way it brings people together – often in new or unexpected ways – to share stories through the plate and through the glass.
Earlier this year, Tasting Australia featured more than 150 events across the state – from Tasting Australia Airlines trips to the Flinders Ranges and the Murray River, to the popular new Aperitivo Hour series. The bustling Town Square at Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga drew over 65,000 visitors, and the festival supported 280 local businesses.
With the 2026 program set to be revealed in the coming months, now’s the perfect time to start planning your next culinary adventure. Whether you’re a long-time foodie or simply looking to experience something new, Tasting Australia promises connection, discovery, and unforgettable flavours.
Visit tastingaustralia.com.au for updates and the full program when it drops.
Tasting Australia presented by Journey Beyond 2026 is on 8–17 May 2026. More at tastingaustralia.com.au
