What is the Tamworth Country Music Festival?
The Tamworth Country Music Festival is Australia's largest country music event, held each January in Tamworth, New South Wales. It has run since 1973 and includes the Golden Guitar Awards.
The festival began in 1973 with the first Australian Country Music Awards, organized by local radio station 2TM. It has grown into one of the largest music festivals in the world, with thousands of performances over ten days.
Tamworth is known as the country music capital of Australia. During the festival, streets, pubs, clubs and parks are filled with performers, from established stars to buskers.
The Golden Guitars
The Golden Guitar Awards are the highest honors in Australian country music. Winners have included Slim Dusty, who won a record number of Golden Guitars, as well as Lee Kernaghan, Kasey Chambers and Troy Cassar-Daley.
The town is home to the Big Golden Guitar, a 12-metre-tall statue that is a popular photo stop. The Roll of Renown recognizes country music artists who have made a significant contribution.
The festival attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year and is an important source of tourism for the region. It also includes a cavalcade parade, line-dancing and talent contests such as Toyota Star Maker.
Did You Know?
Peel Street, the main street of Tamworth, is famous for its busking during the festival.