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CONGRATULATIONS, ASHLEY COOK !
Ashley Cook has been voted BY THE PEOPLE as a FINALIST for BEST BUSH BALLAD for A BUSHMAN’S LIFE in the 2008 AUSTRALIAN COUNTRY MUSIC PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS
Awards will be announced and presented from 2 PM THURSDAY, JANUARY 24 at the REGENT THEATRE in TAMWORTH

THE 2007 GIDGEE COAL BUSH BALLAD AWARD WINNERS!
MARKED WITH *► Trophies made by John Staunton
MALE VOCAL
Peter Coad - Banjo And Henry
Jeff Brown - Old Ringer Sam*
Reg Poole - A Tribute To Slim
FEMALE VOCAL
Jenny Bennetts - Cold Wind
Dianne Lindsay - The Local Mary Magdalene*
Denise Brooks - The Vanishing Breed
SONGWRITER/S
Jeff Brown/Glenn Perrett - Beneath The Green And Gold
Peter Coad - I Heard A Hillbilly Song*
Wave Jackson - The Augathella Fella
ALBUM
Peter Coad - Outback Chapters
Jeff Brown - Harvest Time Again*
Dean Perrett - Return Of The Stockman
GROUP/DUO
Dean Perrett/Peter Pratt - Riding Down The Valley
Barry K & Lin Chandler - We're From This Land
Terry & Jenny Bennetts - I Miss The Good Old Days*
INSTRUMENTAL
Lindsay Waddington - By A Fire Of Gidgee Coal*
Peter Simpson - The Man From Snowy River
COMEDY/NOVELTY
Graham Rodger - There's A Hole In The Mossie Net
Neil Buttsworth - Couldya, Would Ya, Do Ya Wanna
Reg Poole - Ode To A Bull*
NEW TALENT
Leigh Moneghetti - Dusty Guitar
Denise Brooks - A Scene From Long Ago*
Evan Platschinda - Travelling Australia

ENCOURAGEMENT AWARD
Leigh Moneghetti - Dusty Guitar*

Featuring a wide array of bush ballad artists, the awards were staged at the Pittsworth (near Toowoomba) Town Hall on Sat 17th & Sun 19th NOVEMBER.  For Information on Awards Ph 0427731088 or 0749340950.

Akubras Hurled High in the Air to Celebrate the Announcement of Six Million Dollars to Slim Dusty Centre!
The Slim Dusty Centre has taken a giant step forward with the announcement in Kempsey on Saturday night (3rd Nov.) by Deputy Prime Minister, Leader of the Nationals and Member for Lyne, Mark Vaile that a Federal Government grant of Six Million Dollars would be made to the project under a re-elected coalition. He was accompanied by local MP for Cowper, Luke Hartsuyker.
Concept, planning and architectural designs for the Centre on the 35 acre site on the southern outskirts of Slim's home town, Kempsey NSW, are already well advanced.
The funding will be made available through an extension of the Northern Rivers and North Coast Sustainable Regions programme. The Sustainable Regions advisory committee recently wrote to Mr Vaile seeking an extension of funds to accommodate this commitment.
Chair of the Slim Dusty Foundation, Joy McKean hailed the grant saying it would enable the project to get underway in the near future and she paid tribute to those who had worked so hard to make Slim's vision a reality.
Joy said the Foundation wanted to thank the Prime Minister John Howard and Deputy PM Mark Vaile for their strong, on going support of the Slim Dusty Centre project and she also singled out the Minister for Defence, Dr Brendan Nelson for his unwavering commitment over many years.
"There are so many people to thank for their part in bringing the project to this point", said Joy. "In the fore front are the vast number of fans of Slim Dusty, who have contributed so much enthusiasm and support for so long".
"The people and Council of Kempsey, have played a huge role, and the release of Crown Land under lease from the NSW State Government, has also been very important in moving the project forward."
Finally said Joy, "The Slim Dusty Foundation's CEO Kathryn Yarnold deserves a special accolade for the dogged determination, unflagging energy, boundless optimism and vast skill she has shown in steering the project development through such a complicated maze over the past few years. Kathryn and her dedicated staff have earned our heartfelt appreciation".
"There is still so much to be done, said Joy, but with this grant we now have the means to make the Centre a fitting and outstanding memorial to Slim Dusty and his music."
Kathryn Yarnold, echoed the work that lay ahead. "The fundraising does not stop here. We still await a final decision from the State Government for our application for $1.5 million in funding, and continue to progress by moving into the Construction Certificate phase. We are undertaking ongoing involvement with potential exclusive sponsors of some of our exciting and innovative internal displays.”
Speaking from Kempsey after the announcement, Kathryn paid tribute to the team and the incredible positive effect being felt by everyone involved. “This funding announcement will certainly pump new life into a dedicated team, and a little closer to home, we could never have reached this stage without the dedication and hard work of the Slim Dusty Foundation Board and Patrons, and the inspiration and commitment of members of Slim’s own family. Equally important are our Foundation Donors, who have generously donated funds and services from the crucial initial stages.
The Grant was announced at the Slim Dusty Country Music Memories Show, organised by the Rotary Club of Kempsey West, and held in Kempsey on Saturday 3rd November. In excess of 600 people attended and the concert raised over $14,000 for the Slim Dusty Centre appeal.
For information regarding the Slim Dusty Foundation and its aims, please contact Kathryn Yarnold, General Manager on (02) 6562 6533, or
1800 18 SLIM, or visit the website at www.slimdustycentre.com.au
Photos courtesy of Laurie Bullock, The Macleay Argus, Kempsey

>>Pic 1: Joy McKean with Luke Hartsuyker, Anne Kirkpatrick, Mark Vaile, and Dr David Kirkpatrick.

<< Pic 2: The Slim Dusty Foundation Team:Sonia Fingleton, Kathryn Yarnold, Bruce Woods (Events Co-ordinator, Rotary Club of Kempsey West) and Melissa Killmore.
 

2007 New South Wales Gold Medallion Awards For Country Music FINALISTS!!!!
For the third year running the NSW Gold Medallion Awards for country music will be presented in Hexham as part of a gala concert at the:Hexham Bowling Club, Saturday 24th November - 7.30pm
The concert will feature Golden Guitar winners Slim Newton and Lindsay Butler as well as Tom Maxwell, Karen Lynne, Sharnee Fenwick, Dianne Lindsay, Shaza Leigh, Lindsay Waddington, Ian Betteridge, Peter Simpson & The Sideys with Compere Mike Kennedy.
Awards finalists are also invited to appear during the awards presentation.
Several radio presenters from local radio stations will generously assist in presenting the awards in the following categories.
Male Vocalist of the Year
Neil Buttsworth, Steve Ford, Brian Letton, Drew McAlister, Peter Pratt
Female Vocalist of the Year
Kirsty Lee Akers, Felicity, Nikki Gillis, Lynette Guest, Dianne Lindsay
New Talent of the Year
Greg Bain, Lou Bradley, Dean Johnson, Amber Lawrence, Mistin
Musician of the Year
Charley Boyter, Lindsay Butler, Peter Horan, Bob Howe, Nev Malloy
Bush Balladeer of the Year
Peter Coad, Tom Maxwell, Amos Morris, Slim Newton, Charmaine Pout
Touring Artist of the Year
Lindsay Butler, Peter Coad & The Coad Sisters, Brian Letton, Tom Maxwell, The Sidey's.
Songwriter of the Year
Peter Coad, Dianne Lindsay/ Peter Simpson, Drew McAlister/ Alan Caswell, John Seers, Geoff Sidebottom/ (Shaza Leigh), Wendy Wood

Bookings at the Hexham Bowling Club phone: 02-49648079. For Media information contact Kay on (07) 5562 1292

New bust of legendary Australian guitarist to be unveiled in January
The fifth bronze bust of an Australian country music pioneer, Barry Thornton, will be unveiled in Tamworth’s Bicentennial Park on Monday, January 21, 2008 at 11am.
Barry is widely regarded as the creator of the bush ballad style of guitar picking, a unique sound he conceived while touring Australia’s highways and byways with Slim Dusty. Who could forget that famous riff in Slim’s recording of the Shorty Ranger tune, Winter Winds?
This is the fourth bust in the park sculpted by Canberra artist Peter Latona, whose amazingly realistic images of pioneers Tex Morton, Stan Coster and Gordon Parsons stop many a tourist in their tracks while wandering through Tamworth’s leafy heart.
The first bust to be erected in Bicentennial Park was that of Buddy Williams, and is the only bust in the park not created by Peter.
The unveiling ceremony is set to be a major event of the 2008 Tamworth Country Music Festival, which the public is more than welcome to witness.
There will be speeches and formalities prior to the unveiling, as the Country Capital Bronze Bust Committee, chaired by tireless country music supporter Lorraine Pfitzner, officially hands over the bust to Tamworth Regional Council for safekeeping – and for posterity.
“To install a bust of this quality, which is so life-like, takes a lot of hard work and skill by the sculptor, but it also takes a lot of giving by the country music fraternity of Australia, who willingly donate to the cause,” Lorraine said.
“For the past four years we have been fundraising for this event. A number of individuals have donated sizeable amounts, while other money has come in via competitions and concerts.”
Lorraine said how vital it was for the country music fans who come to this city to become familiar with the faces and stories of our pioneers.
“It was these hard-working entertainers who forged ahead and paved the way for the country music industry of today, so they should always be honoured. In that way, their memory lives on forever,” she said.
For further information, please contact Lorraine Pfitzner email: lorijoy@tpg.com.au

STAN COSTER MEMORIAL BUSH BALLAD AWARDS FINALISTS 2008!
NEW TALENT
GREG BAIN - Can I Sing Trumby
DENISE BROOKS - A Scene From Long Ago
LEIGH MONEGHETTI - The Shakedown On The Floor
MALE VOCAL
BRIAN LETTON - Driving Through A Postcard
AMOS MORRIS - Follow The Footsteps
GRAHAM RODGER - Woman On the land
FEMALE VOCAL
LYNETTE GUEST - Murray River Blues
SHAZA LEIGH - You Can't wrap Your Arms Around A Memory
DIANNE LINDSAY - Local Mary Magdalene
GROUP OR DUO
LINDSAY BUTLER - Ramblin' Guitar
TOM MAXWELL/LYNETTE GUEST - A Bushman Can't Survive
DEAN PERRETT AND PETER PRATT - Riding Down The Valley
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
JEFF BROWN - Harvest Time Again
DEAN PERRETT - Return Of The Stockman
GRAHAM RODGER - Thunderbolt
SONGWRITER
TREVOR DAY - An Empty Plate
LEX KUNST - Lakes Creek Judas Bullocks
GRAHAM RODGER - Woman On the Land
COMEDY
TREVOR DAY - The Homemade Chair
KEITH JAMIESON - Old Pete's Yellowbelly
PETER PRATT - Mary Kathleen

WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT THE 2008 AWARDS!!
CONTACT: Maureen Gordon, PO Box 460, Bungendore NSW 2621 . Phone/Fax
(02) 62380224  EMAIL ENQUIRES:  bungendorecountrymuster@yahoo.com.au
 

T



ASHLEY COOK - Second Single - A Bushman's Life.
Ashley’s has enjoyed great success with the launch of his second album “Beneath The Queensland Moon”.
The first single, “Big Cod Fishing Hole”, written by Wave Jackson and Ashley, made the Country Charts reaching #28.
The second single, “A Bushman's Life” written by Ben Jacobs and Shaza Leigh, could have been written about Ashley.
Most bushman from the land have identify with this song. They would all rather be home on the farm mustering the cattle or would driving the tractor ploughing rather than being in the Rat race of the towns and cities.

Kimberley Cook- Debut Single
Kimberley has been singing Country Music and Bush Ballads since she was seven.
Born in Biloela and living on her family property at Scoria, Thangool Central Queensland, Kimberley preforms at shows with her father Ashley and has recorded a duet with him on his “Cattle Dust And Leather” album.
The song was the old Coster classic Lead Me Down To The Stockyard recorded by Slim Dusty.
Kimberley was sponsored by The Bush Balladeers Association to be a graduate in Camerata in 2006. There she learnt a lot on mandolin, lead guitar and songwriting from other leading musicians.
Kimberley has co/written a song with Shaza Leigh and recorded with Lindsay Butler at LBS Studio’s in Queensland “Remember The Anzac”. As Shaza says in the Country Collection, "Kimberley comes with a pedigree for performing bush ballads. Whilst her counterparts pursue contemporary careers, Kimberley is content and focused on the style of music that she loves and respects".
Contact Ashley or Kimberley Cook via ash.toni@bigpond.com

The Slim Dusty Country Music Memories Show - 3rd November
Slim’s Family give rare performance to raise funds for Slim’s Museum in his home town!
All eyes will be on Kempsey Racecourse on Saturday night, the 3rd of November, for a very special and extremely rare concert.
Lined up on stage will be the family of Australia’s most celebrated and awarded Country Music Legend, Slim Dusty.
The Slim Dusty Country Music Memories Show is headlined by his life long partner and fellow performer Joy McKean. Joy and her family, who will take this opportunity to spend some valuable time at the Nulla, Slim’s boyhood home, is excited by the prospect of being on stage with the Slim Dusty troupe once again.
“I am looking forward to a really enjoyable evening of music and meeting friends. Anne and David will be onstage with some of the Travelling Country Band members, and even I am going to join them for some songs. The two young balladeers, Amos Morris and Nathan Charlton, will be great entertainment for everyone because they are both such good interpreters of Slim’s songs. Altogether, there will be a lot of favourite ballads sung, and a lot of memories for all of us” she said from her Sydney home today.
Proceeds from the Slim Dusty Country Music Memories Show will help fund construction of the Slim Dusty Centre on the Pacific Highway at Kempsey. The Centre will not only create employment and economic prospects for the region, it will provide a uniquely Australian experience and promises to be one of the most significant of its kind, destined to become a National Icon in its own right. It will incorporate a museum dedicated to Slim's achievements and will house an incredible collection of precious memorabilia collected by Slim and Joy during a lifetime on the road.
The Centre will also help keep Australia's country music and bush ballad traditions alive by nurturing up-and-coming performers, giving them the encouragement they need and deserve through Scholarships.
An exquisite Red Cedar coffee table made from timber originating from Slim’s Nulla Nulla property and handcrafted by Mr George Crossingham, along with various other items will be auctioned on the night, with all proceeds being dedicated to Australia’s exciting Slim Dusty Centre project.
What started out in 2004 as a simple local tribute to the memory of Slim Dusty who had passed away just one year before, is now a fully-fledged concert set to attract legions of fans of the man himself, and his style of music.
Now organised and run by the Rotary Club of Kempsey West, the Slim Dusty Country Music Memories Show, was originally initiated by local Rotarian, Bruce Woods, holding a small evening on his Kempsey farm. Who would have imagined that a fun night with a few mates would develop into such a significant and popular event?
Event Co-ordinator, Bruce Woods is ecstatic about the growing success. “I have been overwhelmed by the many phone calls and widespread interest received for the Concert. Ticket sales have been strong not only from the local community, but as far afield as Toowoomba, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Bribie Island, South Coast, Sydney and inland New South Wales. This will be an opportunity to hear Slim and Joy’s son David and their daughter Anne sing on stage together once again.
On stage, Slim and Joy's daughter Anne Kirkpatrick, an award-winning performer in her own right and son David Kirkpatrick, taking time off from his busy duties as a doctor, will be joined by fellow award-winning young bush balladeers Amos Morris and Nathan Charlton.
Amos, a local, first sang at the original Memories show when just 16 and is going from strength to strength. Nathan, from Junee, also continues to keep the bush ballad tradition alive for the next generation. And who better to play the Slim Dusty sound to perfection than past members of his Travelling Country Band: Rod Coe, Mike Kerin, Charley Boyter, Michael Tyne and Doug Bligh.
As would be expected from a show featuring such well loved artists, bookings are already booming, with the show just 10 days away. Tickets are just $25, with school-age children admitted free; they are available from In Harmony Music (Centrepoint Arcade, Kempsey) and Travelscene (Belgrave Street). You can also purchase tickets and get further information by contacting Event Co-ordinator, Bruce Woods on (02) 6562 4795 or on his mobile 0418 491 499.
The Racecourse, at North Street, West Kempsey, will be open from 3pm with plenty of entertainment leading up to the main show at 6pm. Patrons are advised to bring their own chairs and drinks; BBQ facilities, soft drinks, tea, coffee and cakes will also be available.
With such a star-studded line-up to celebrate the memory of Australia's father of Country Music, this year's show is set to be a sell-out, particularly given the larger venue, so make your bookings now!
For information regarding the Slim Dusty Foundation and its aims, please contact Kathryn Yarnold, General Manager on (02) 6562 6533, or 1800 18 SLIM, or visit the website at www.slimdustycentre.com.au


ELEVENTH AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS RESULTS - MILDURA 2007
APRA/AMCOS Australian Independent Country Music Single of the Year
BIG BLACK CLOUD — FELICITY URQUHART
2. One Stop Entertainment Independent Album of the Year
LEAP BEFORE YOU LOOK — CARTER & CARTER
3. Australian Independent Heritage Track of the Year - Traditional
WOMAN ON THE LAND — GRAHAM RODGER
4. Capital News Australian Independent Rising Star Male Award
MARKUS MEIER — MATILDA ROAD
5. Capital News Australian Independent Rising Star Female Award
CASEY WATT — I DON'T WANT TO WORK THIS HARD
6. Australian Independent Male Vocalist of the Year
PAUL COSTA — A LOVER'S QUESTION
7. Australian Independent Female Vocalist of the Year
AMBER LAWRENCE — THINGS THAT BRING ME DOWN
8. Australian Independent Group/Duo of the Year
CARTER & CARTER — RUNAWAY
9. Australian Independent Artist of the Year
CARTER & CARTER
10. Barry Thornton Memorial Service Award
JOY LAURIE
Winners were announced on Saturday 6th October 2007 at the Awards presentation concert in the Mildura Arts Centre Theatre, Cureton Avenue Mildura.
For more information, contact John Arnold on 0418 303 206

A.B.B.A.  - CMAA ACHIEVER WINNERS 2007!
The A.B.B.A. was the proud recipient of the "Club or Association of the Year" award at the prestigious CMAA Achiever Awards Gala concert held at the Waters Edge Function Centre in Sydney on September 10th.
Congratulations A.B.B.A! (<< Pic: Lorraine Pfitzner (A.B.B.A. Secretary) with CMAA award)
A.B.B.A..Background...
In the space of only 7 years, the Australian Bush Balladeers Association Incorporated has welcomed approximately 900 members. The quarterly ‘Balladeers Bulletin’ magazine and website services not only members, but radio stations and offices of Country Music with updates from the bush ballad movement. The annual Bush Balladeer Star Quest winners receive a firm start, via promotional single and major appearances for 12 months. A.B.B.A presents showcases and concerts promoting bush ballads, seeking to work and achieve in harmony with other country music bodies, whilst continuing to build a strong future for the bush ballad.
The A.B.B.A. would like to thank all who voted for us. Your support is appreciated.


GREG BAIN – CAN I SING TRUMBY
"Can I Sing Trumby' written by one of Australia's top bush ballad songwriters Ian Quinn has been recorded by Greg Bain A.B.B.A BUSH BALLADEER STAR QUEST WINNER 2007. The storyline is built around 'Trumby' a song written by the late legendary Joe Daley, which was recorded by the late Slim Dusty in the late 60's and the Ian Quinn composition 'Can I Sing Trumby" reflects on the ongoing popularity of the song at a show. The song showcases Greg’s vocal perfectly and is a standout release from this popular Star Quest winner. The single was released on the August NFS Radio Compilation. Webpage: www.bushballadeers.com.au/bain.htm


A.B.B.A. The Balladeers Compilation album No. 9!
"The Balladeers Vol. 9" is now being compiled. Balladeers wishing to submit a track must do so by the 31st of September.  Submitters please note:  There is no cost to submit a track, but if the track is accepted for inclusion $330 (Inc GST) per track applies. Tracks submitted are subject to quality and suitability appraisal  before inclusion. For more details you may go to www.bushballadeers.com.au/compilation.htm or email the A.B.B.A. info@bushballadeers.com.au
 

BUNGENDORE AWARDS 2008
The 2008 Stan Coster Memorial Bush Ballad Awards entry closes October 1st.
One small change has been made to the conditions of entry. Nominations will be restricted to material recorded and released within the qualifying period i.e. 1/10/06 - 30/9/07. Re-releases will no longer be eligible. Nomination forms are now available.
Ph: (02) 62380224 or Email; bungendorecountrymuster@yahoo.com.au

BALLADEER FINALISTS AT MILDURA C.M. Awards!
The 2007 Mildura Country Music Awards see finalists WOMAN ON THE LAND Graham Rodger, CAN'T CUT GIDGEE Ian Quinn, BUSH GIRL'S HEART Anita Ree, DAYS ROLL BY Tom Curtain in the AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT HERITAGE TRACK OF THE YEAR ­ TRADITIONAL section. Congratulations to those balladeers. Mildura will feature over 100 artists at the 21st Festival including balladeers; Greg Bain, Matt Manning, Ian Quinn, Tracy Coster, Anita Ree, Jeff Brown, Trevor Day, Slim Newton, Peter Pratt, Julie Perandes, Dean Perrett, Camp Oven Country, Nathan Charlton and Tom Maxwell. Warren Mahoney of Camp Oven Country will again be hosting his popular Camp Oven Country Showcase at the Apex caravan Park.
For a full awards finalist listing or online program of Mildura Festival go to  www.milduracountrymusic.com.au

WONDARA WOOLSHED DO
The Wondara Woolshed Do held 9th - 16th October down Logan's Road via Tumbarumba Road, Carabost NSW. Artists featured: TOM MAXWELL, PETER HORAN, PETER PRATT, AND GARY GOUGH plus Walkup artists. Food and drinks available from Tuesday to Sunday night. Join them for a great week of bush camping (no power or showers) Camp Oven Cooking, Sheep Shearing demonstration, Camp Fire Sing –a -long. Compere/Stage Manager Sam Burgess. Bring Your Own Chairs. Contact Gary and Gloria (02) 6948 6128 gazglo@bigpond.com or Ailsa and Ron (07) 4927 7282.

THE BLACKTOWN DOROTHY POYCK MEMORIAL BUSH BALLADEERS CONCERT 2007
The Dorothy Poyck Memorial Concert will now be held at the Blacktown RSL Sydney on the Sunday 21st of October. Featuring... Peter Coad & The Coad Sisters, Ron Sadler, Greg Bain, Dianne Lindsay, Peter Simpson, Chicka Daniels, and the Charley Boyter band. Blacktown RSL Club Blacktown. 11am Start. For more details contact Ron Sadler: ronjsadler@optusnet.com.au

The Bush Balladeer Star Quest 2008
Entry Now Open!
Are YOU an aspiring Bush Balladeer artist looking for a break? You could be the next winner!
The Bush Balladeer Star Quest encourages; Upcoming Bush Balladeers to be part of the Bush Ballad Industry and preserve Bush Ballad music for future generations. The Bush Balladeers Star Quest is a prestigious achievement on which the winner can build his/or her bush ballad career. Recording time & Appearances at Major Festivals; e.g., Tamworth Country Music festival (Major Bush Ballad Concerts), Bungendore Muster, the Gympie Muster, and the Mildura Country Music Festival, along with publicity support throughout the 12 months, ensures the Winner becomes established within industry and public circles.
The Bush Balladeer Star Quest purpose is to offer direction to young artists, a greater understanding of the industry, media, and to give them an opportunity to develop a solid foundation on which to build their career in Bush Ballad music.
2008 STAR QUEST ENTRY DETAILS      ENTRIES CLOSE 31st of October 2007.


WIDGEE BALLADEERS MUSTER
  The Widgee Balladeers Muster 26,27,28 October at the Widgee Sports Grounds - 20 minutes out of Gympie. A variety of bush ballad artists featured at this popular annual event... Terry Gordon, Reg Poole, Tom Maxwell, Chainsaw Lindsay, Les Lawson, 2007 Star Quest winner - Greg Bain, Nathan Charlton, Laura Downing, Lindsay Waddington, Matt manning, Julie Perandes, Dan Manning, Charmaine Pout, Ian Cridge, Neil Buttsworth, Jeff Gibson, Pete Smith, Kate Botfield, Jeff Brown, Dianne Lindsay, Peter Simpson, Ashley Cook, Wave Jackson, Clyde Cameron,  Kimberley Cook, Buddy Thomson, Lynne Bennett, Dorrie Muller, Nev Molloy, John Colville, Alan Luscombe, Alex Beckett, Graham Parfitt, Web Bros, Lex K, Bruce Bell, Kev Groves, Keith Jamieson, Alisha Smith, Ricky Shipp, Bob Easter, Gary Smith.
  POETS
  Merv and Chris Webster, Gary Fogarty, Noel Stannard, Ray Rose, John Best, Ron Leikefeet, Rod Crome...
  Walkups during weekend...
 ADMISSION:  2 people for weekend $80, 1 person for weekend $40, Weekend pass p/person $40, Daily pass p/person $20, Night Shows p/person $10, primary students Free,
  No Need To book A site
  Food available at all times, Bar open daily after lunch from Thursday night to Sunday night.
  Contact: Lex K. (07) 41 293145 Mobile: (0428) 293145  >> PROGRAM PDF
 

JULY

BALLADS FROM THE BUSH FUNDRAISER

THE AUSTRALIAN BUSH BALLADEERS ASSOCIATION proudly present the annual 'Ballads From The Bush Fundraiser'.
This function is an event that fundraises for the Barry Thornton Bronze Bust.
<< See jpeg ad to left....(loading..)

This will take place at the Scully Room- Southgate Inn
Tamworth Hat's Off Weekend Saturday the 7th of July 4pm.

For more information contact
Lorraine Pfitzner lorraine@bushballadeers.com.au
 

DINKI DI COUNTRY ON TOUR
Reg Poole, Keith Jamieson & Alisha Smith will commence their 2007 Dinki Di Country Tour in June. The tour will cover all seven states of Australia starting at the Kyogle Bowls Club on 28th June, Tenterfield Bowls Club on 29th June and Pittsworth Town Hall on 1st July and they will finish at the Widgee Balladeers Muster on 28th October. Full tour dates available soon.
You can also check Keith's website

www.bushballadeers.com.au/jamieson.htm

NEW ALBUM AVAILABLE 1ST OF JULY!!
Keith Jamieson and Alisha Smith are releasing a new album at their Pittsworth show on 1st July coinciding with their around Australia tour. The album is dedicated to all of the bush ballad fans around Australia and is titled "Our Bush Ballad Family". It features eight bush ballads from Keith and seven instrumentals by Alisha, one of which she recorded as a guitar duet with the legendary Charley Boyter. The album was produced by Lindsay Waddington at Krosskut Records and features some of the best musicians in the industry.
www.bushballadeers.com.au/jamieson.htm

VALE - SHORTY RANGER OAM
Shorty Ranger – one of Australia's most prolific country music songwriters – has passed away, aged 81.
Shorty died Friday afternoon 22nd June at the Kempsey Hospital surrounded by his family, wife Ruby, John, Glen, Meryl, June and Dale, after suffering a severe stroke.
Born Edwin Haberfield in Kempsey on October 9, 1925, Shorty's early country music career mirrored that of his singing mate David Gordon Kirkpatrick (Slim Dusty). After success in such quests as Australia's Amateur Hour, Shorty concentrated on songwriting.
Having written and co-written more than 400 songs, many of which have been recorded by some of the big names in country music, Shorty recorded more than 250 of his own songs on more than 20 albums.
He was one of the first to be inducted into Australia's Country Music Hands of Fame in 1977, was named Tamworth Songwriters' Association's Song Maker in 1989 and elevated to the Country Music Roll of Renown in 1993.
Best known perhaps for his iconic song Winter Winds, Shorty – nicknamed "Bob" by family and friends and also as "The Singing Wanderer" on his records – was the eldest of six children. His parents were engaged in mixed farming on the Nulla Nulla Creek in NSW just three miles from the original Slim Dusty homestead.
Shorty and Slim attended the Nulla Nulla school and were friends from the first day. He and Slim went together to take their thirty shillings ($3) across the creek to purchase their first guitar from Jack Kyle (Clem Rogers). Shorty was there When the Rain Tumbled Down in July and was the first to hear the song. He took part in the early trips in which they tried to make a start in entertaining.
The boys busked in the streets of MacLean and Coffs Harbour, each taking his turn at passing around the hat. They were engaged to sing at the Mayfair Theatre, Kempsey for two pounds ($4) and enthusiastically plied their chosen careers in the early broadcasts of radio station 2KM Kempsey.They travelled Queensland with Hayden's Circus and Zoo and again with Dante the Magician.
All these experiences paved the way for the many successful Shorty Ranger songs to be recorded later by artists of the calibre of Slim, Buddy Williams, Reg Lindsay, Rick & Thel, The Singing Kettles, Barry Thornton, Lindsay Butler and many others.
Some Shorty's other classic compositions included My Old Aussie Homestead, Somebody's Mother, Somewhere Up In Queensland, Willy Willy, Song of the Macleay, Old Rusty Bell, Toy Telephone (written with Ivy Waters), The Big Banana Land, Buggy And Pair, Queensland Texas Rose and Old Kentucky Rig.
Shorty recorded 10 sides for the Rodeo label in 1951-2 after coming runner-up to Reg Lindsay in a mammoth talent quest in the Sydney Town Hall. Through the 1970s, he recorded albums for Hadley Records and, in the 1980s, formed his own record label, Wildwood Records, to continue to release and market his own material.
For some years, Shorty devoted himself to country gospel songs, sometimes co-writing with Jim Wesley and, in 1978, an album called Heaven Country Style was released. However, the pressure continued upon Shorty to write bush ballads, so he once again embraced the task of creating songs in this genre.  In 1968/9 Shorty wrote all of the material used by Buddy Williams on his Big Banana Land album and half of the songs for Buddy's Along The Outback Track.
Although Shorty performed on many major country music show in Australia, he made the decision early on in his career to give his first priority to being a family man. This has meant that life was too full for him to go out on the road for any length of time, so he put the major effort into being a songwriter.
Shorty's funeral will take place at the Presbyterian Church, Rudder Street, East Kempsey at 11am Thursday (June 28).
Article courtesy  Bob Kirchner  http://www.countrymusicbulletin.com.au/   website.

Young Bush Balladeer Amos Morris signs to Nulla Records
Australian country music legend Joy McKean officially welcomed young Kempsey bush balladeer Amos Morris to Nulla Records, the label Slim Dusty started back in 1981. Amos, a very popular new artist on the bush balladeer scene, is committed to introducing the bush ballad to his generation and preserving its heritage.
It is a happy coincidence that this young balladeer comes out of Slim Dusty’s hometown and will continue Slim’s legacy through Nulla Records. The influence of the master is still strong throughout this project with Amos recording his debut Nulla album in Slim’s Columbia Lane studios, while having production by Anne Kirkpatrick with the assistance of longtime Slim Dusty Travelling Country Band member Mike Kerin.
Amos’s highly anticipated second album will be released early August on Nulla Records through EMI Australia.
Pic << Joye McKean and Amos Morris

 

WAVE JACKSON - LAUGHTER IN THE HILLS SHOW AT INJUNE
On Saturday 23rd June at the Injune RSL hall there will be a tribute to Wave Jackson. All artists who wish to perform must sing a Wave Jackson song. For more info contact: injuneic@tpg.com.au


CABOOLTURE URBAN COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL FEATURES BALLADEERS IN 2007
The Caboolture Urban Country Music Festival has expanded to include bush ballad shows as part of the festivals gigantic lineup of country music. The bush ballad shows will be staged in the Caboolture Town Hall on Sat 5th and 6th of May with two shows per day at 11am and 5pm.
ARTISTS APPEARING;The balladeers featured are Julie Perandes, Anita Ree, Graham Rodger, Jeff Brown, Star Quest winner Greg Bain, and the Young Balladeers, (Matt Manning, Amos Morris, Nathan Charlton and Dan Manning). Jeff Brown will perform on the Saturday only and Anita Ree only on the Sunday. For more information contact: Donna Donovan Email: donovand@caboolture.qld.gov.au

BROXBURN COUNTRY MUSIC BASH MAY
The Broxburn Country Music Bash is gearing up for another big weekend in May. Keith Jamieson, Alisha Smith, Tapping Teddy Thompson and Sharon Smith will be presenting a Bush Balladeers Dinki-Di Show on the evening of Friday May 4 between 6 and 9pm.
Our Talent Quest will run Saturday and Sunday. We have a Broxburn club members show on Saturday night hosted by Gazza Watson and on Sunday night our entertainers are Jeff Brown, Tom Curtain, Paul Costa Tom Lee-Archer and Laura Downing.
The Poets Breakfast hosted by Peter Riddle and Gary Fogarty will be on the Sunday morning. we will also have a Ute Show .
A camp kitchen, food and drink stalls, bar and barbeque will keep everyone well fed. Camp sites are available.
For enquiries please phone Pam Postle
07 4693 1530.
www.broxburnbash.com

MULWALA MAY LONG WEEKEND 11-13th May  . jpeg ad, please allow time to load...
Contact Ron Morgan rmj00@optusnet.com.au



ANNUAL EVENT; Stan Coster Birthday Celebration
On the Saturday closest to MAY 27TH at Tent Hill Hotel, via Gatton there is a concert to honour Stan Coster, featuring Tracy Coster and various bush balladeers. Contact; tracycoster@bigpond.com


The Stockman Returns
After a spiral of success with his ‘New Traditions’ album, multi award winning artist Dean Perrett has released a new album ‘Return of the Stockman’.
This album had been in Dean’s mind for many years, and something his fans have been requesting of him for a long time. This has spurred Dean to record an album of Bush Ballad songs that have inspired him as an artist. Once again Stuie French and his Swingin’ Door Studio were Dean’s choice for the project. Dean says “It was a privilege to co-produce the new album with a musician and producer of the caliber of Stuie”. “‘Return of the Stockman’ was recorded as a ‘live’ studio album”, which has given the album a character all of its own.
The songs on this CD run with a theme of stockman, horses, cattle or in other words songs that are the essence of a real Bush Ballad song. Songs like ‘Blackened Quarts are Boiling’, ‘Return of the Stockman’, ‘Arcadia Valley’ and ‘Banjo’s Man’, are some of the great songs that grace the record among some well known classics like ‘By a Fire of Gidgee Coals’, ‘Camooweal’ and ‘Plains of Peppimenarti’. There is also an original song titled ‘Songs Like These’ a co-write between Ian Quinn and Dean. The song nicely sets the mood for the album and explains Dean’s heritage and love for this style of music.
This special album has hit the mark and has been selling well at Dean’s shows since its release. Dean has been out and about promoting the album and just recently completed a very successful tour with Peter Pratt and Charley Boyter.
www.deanperrett.com

RACHEL RICHARDS - RECORDING
 Queensland balladeer artist Rachel Richards (Grand Finalist of the 2007 Bush Balladeer Star Quest) will be recording her debut album with  Lindsay Waddington of Kross Kut Studios. Rachel will be in the studio in June and will hope to launch the album in November. It will consist of 12 tracks, 7 of which are Rachel Richards originals, including the award winning song, The Drover and crowd favourite Weeping Willows, and the tribute song to the Great Stan Coster co-written with Rachel’s great mate and talented balladeer, Barry “Bazza” Salkeld, Coster….You’re A Legend, as an added bonus there will be one original song written for Rachel by the exceptional songwriting talent of Keith Jamieson, a couple of Coster Classics and Rachel’s rendition of Slim’s, When The Rain Tumbles Down In July.

“BLUE WATER COUNTRY”Music Festival at Port Stephens -Bringing Country to the Coast- 7th to 11th June 2007
Last year a new Festival was introduced into the Australian Country Music Calender on the June long weekend at Port Stephens and Nelson Bay, just north of Newcastle on the NSW North Coast.
The Festival kick started in 2006 with 15 venues and already in 2007 has attracted a total of 30 venues, many of them located and overlooking beautiful Port Stephens supported by over 100 artists and bands.
In some cases, they are on Cruise Boats which pass the day sailing amongst the dolphins in the Port Stephens waterways. It is something of a unique concept in Country Music with the efforts of the organisers to ‘Bring Country to the Coast’.
Last year a new Festival was introduced into the Australian Country Music Calender on the June long weekend at Port Stephens and Nelson Bay, just north of Newcastle on the NSW North Coast.
Following the outstanding success of the inaugural event in 2006, it was identified by Tourism NSW as a future Flagship event for the State of NSW and accordingly supported the 2007 event with funding to market the Festival. The organisers have decided to substantially extend the duration of the Festival to five days and also significantly enhance the appeal of the Festival, particularly by conducting a range of Country Music activities.
The organisers, Nelson Bay Town Management Inc, has been overwhelmed by the level of interest from both performers and potential visitors for the 2007 Festival. There will be at least 30 venues which has virtually doubled the 2006 event and there will be at least 100 ‘gigs’. Most of the Festival venues will be serviced by a shuttle bus service supported by Port Stephens Coaches and most venues will be entry free. It is anticipated that over 200 performers will be participating.
The organisers of this event is Nelson Bay Town Management Inc supported by Nelson Bay Chamber of Commerce Inc.
Enquiries can be made to [02] 4984 4751 or website www.nelsonbaybusiness.com Accommodation can be booked online through the above website or by phone on [02] 4980 6900.

APRIL

MARCH
PETE SMITH - BACK IN THE STUDIO
After a very busy time in Tamworth, performing full time, Yodelling Pete Smith is not letting time get away from him, as he gears up for another big year. Pete is back in the studio to record his new album with Lindsay Waddington at Kross Kut Studios. With eight new songs , 2 Tex Morton and a couple of old favoutites, it is without doubt Pete’s new album will follow in the success of his previous releases.
Pete Smith is also including a rendition of Nth Queenslander Rachel Richard’s composition ‘The Drover”.
For his many fans, Pete wishes to advise he will be appearing at the Tent Hill Hotel on the 3rd of March.

OUTBACK COUNTRY MUSIC SATURDAY 10TH MARCH 2007 , FORRESTDALE WA.
Contact: Peter or Jan (08) 9397 0877. please allow time for pic below to load....

BIG MAL COAD AT WARWICK HALL
On the 1st April Big Mal Coad www.geocities.com/bigmalcoad will be appearing at the Railway Institute Hall Warwick. More details contact meegancoad@bigpond.com

BOONDOOMA MUSTER APRIL 2007
The 25th - 29th of April will see the annual Boondooma Spirit Of The Bush Heritage and Balladeers Muster take place featuring some of Australia's top Balladeers & Poets including;
Brian Young - Gary Fogarty - Graham Rodger - Lindsay Butler - Johnny Greenwood - Laura Downing - Dean Perrett, Lindsay Waddington - Peter Pratt - Kelly Dixon - Denise Brooks - Daisy May Wegner - Roy Garland - Bill Jensen - Lynne Bennett, Katie Sempf - Harry Pickering - Kate Botfield - Shaza Leigh - Harry Early - Neil Buttsworth - Clyde Cameron - Les Lawson, Ted Thompson - Wave Jackson - Reg Briskey - Alec Beckett - Dorrie Muller - Pete Smith - Chris & The Grey - Graham Parfitt, Buddy Thomson - Marc Lea - John Colville - Barry Offer - Col Edmonds - Charmaine Pout - Lex K - Anita Ree - John Kilcullen, Ashley & Kimberley Cook - Ron Peters - Peter Simpson - Charlie Boyter - Dianne Lindsay - Warren Nielsen - Ray Essery , Julie Perandes - Gordon Larkin - Nev Molloy - Keith Jamieson - Alisha Smith - Bob Magee - Sarah McMonagle - Rod Parry, Jeff Gibson - Viv & Shirley Kehl - Slim Jones - Zeta Burns - Ian Hands - Bruce Bell - Ray Rose - Pam Thomasson, Plus Walkup Artists and Balladeers Competition, Australiana Art & Poetry Competitions, Historic & Photographic Displays -, Vintage Cars & Engines, Broad Axe & Adze Displays - Kids Whip Cracking Comp & Poo & Spoon Race, Camp Oven Food (By Boondooma's Camp Oven Cooking Team) - BBQ - Hot Chips - Snacks - Drinks - Licenced Bar, Market Stalls, Bush Camping (No shower facilities available, please bring own water for shower as we are running short due to drought conditions.)
Bookings and Enquiries to: Secretary: Lyn Seiler Ph: 07 4168 0161.


FEBRUARY 2007

DEAN PERRETT NEW ALBUM! - RETURN OF THE STOCKMAN
"The focus this year is the release of my ‘Return of the Stockman’ album. I have been wanting to record an album of some of the all time classic bush songs that have been an influence to my music. So we have recorded and released this album with just me and a core band of some of Australian Country Music’s greatest pickers. Our old mate Charley Boyter on acoustic guitar, Stuie French playing electric guitar, Mick Albeck on Fiddle, Rod Coe on Bass and Brad Bergen keeping the beat on snare drum. We where able to feed off each others vibe and enthusiasm and I’m sure the listener will hear this feel, groove and energy when they slip the new album in the C.D player.
Myself and the boy’s had a great time recording classics like “The Return of the Stockman”, “Blackened Quarts are Boiling”, “The Ballad of the Drover”, “Arcadia Valley”, “Axe Mark on a Gidgee” and “Banjo’s Man” just to name a few. Peter Pratt joins me for a duet on the old Buddy Williams classic “Riding Down the Valley." Dean said.
During late March and early April Dean Perrett, Peter Pratt and Charley Boyter will be touring the Queensland Coast as well as shows in Kyogle and Wauchope.
www.deanperrett.com

SLIM DUSTY - ARCHIVE FIND
In 1942, the 15-year-old son of a cattle farmer from Kempsey had the foresight and ambition to copyright a song he had composed. It was called ‘Beautiful Aussie Land’.
The songwriter’s name was David Gordon Kirkpatrick, but he had been going by the stage name of Slim Dusty since he was 11.
Initially, the application was not processed correctly and the copyright office had to ask the young composer to resubmit his song with the music score.
Three years later Slim released his first record and the rest is Australian music history.
Article/Pic and items courtesy of The National Archives Of Australia.
http://www.naa.gov.au/about_us/find-of-month/default.html

GRAHAM RODGER - THUNDERBOLT
A big achiever at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Graham Rodger, has officially launched his latest CD, “Thunderbolt”. Featuring a ballad which tells the tale of the notorious New England bushranger, ‘Captain Thunderbolt’ (Frederick Ward) and twelve other original tracks inspired by our heritage.The acclaimed singer / songwriter, took out three major awards at the Tamworth Songwriters’ Association Salute Awards of Australia held at the West Tamworth Leagues Club during the 35th annual Festival.
Graham Rodger is passionate about the character and history of Australia, particularly in the bush; that passion is evident in his approach to song writing. “I think we are losing a lot of the stories from our past, and songs can help keep that history alive.”
For further information, contact Graham Rodger: 0427 130 853
Article & Pic supplied by Gary Fry Armadale

Vale Jack Munting;
On January 23rd 2007 Tasmania’s living legend Jack Munting passed into the realm of legends at the George Town hospital. Jack had been ill having suffered a stroke some time ago.
For over sixty years Jack had entertained Tasmanians with his country music singing around the state, on radio and through the medium of television. He had performed with some of the best in the business, Burl Ives, Tex Morton and Tim McNamara and the like.
Some of his honours included, induction into the "Hands of Fame" in Tamworth and citizen of the year for Launceston. He appeared on "Australia’s Amateur Hour" back in the forties.
He also appeared on the channel 9 program, "Showcase", compered by Gordon Boyd. Jack spent a lot of his time entertaining with the late Dawn Cooper and their troupe around the nursing homes of Tasmania as well as singing at various country music clubs.

NEWS FROM GREG BAIN  - G’Day Everyone
Well Tamworth was an amazing start to what I am assured will be a very busy and exiting year for me. The Star Quest was an incredible experience and I was very honoured when I was announced the winner for 2007.
Firstly, I would like to congratulate all the finalists and it was a pleasure to meet you all. I would like to thank the great crowd that was on hand at West Diggers to support the Quest and also a big thank you to the fantastic Charlie Boyter band who brought all the performances to life. To Tracy Coster and Lynn Manning thank you for trying to keep us all calm (it didn’t work, but thanks anyway) and also to my family and friends who made the trek to Tamworth with me to support me during the day.
Thanks to everyone involved with the Australian Bush Balladeers Association, especially Peter Coad and the committee for making this Quest possible and giving someone like me a great opportunity like this. Without the support and the push from members of the Bellbird Country Music Club, the Singleton Country Music Club, the Hunter Valley Country Music Association and the Australian Country Music and Bush Ballads Association I would never have gained the confidence or ability to enter this Quest.
www.bushballadeers.com.au/bain.htm





NEW CD FROM SLIM CONNOR OF SWAN HILL VIC.
G’day,
2007 and another Tamworth Festival over and I was pleased to have my long awaited new CD called "You'll Do Me Mate" ready.
Thanks to Redwood Studio Ballarat who worked hard to get it out and send it up to me. Great to catch up with many artists and friends.
Thanks to Peter Coad, Warren Mahoney, Graeme Coats, Lex K and Reg McLeod for the opportunity to perform on their shows.
Again I had the support of friends performing in the street with Heather and Phil, Delia and Kevin, Lyn and Barry K Chandler, Fireberg family, Warren Mahoney plus the many others. Thank you all.
After Tamworth we went on to Bungendore, and had a great time with friends. Great to catch up with Maureen Gordon. I won 1st prize in the Busking competition at Bungendore, which was a great thrill.
Then Gwen and myself travelled over to Wellington S.A. to perform on country music show called the "Alcheringa Shindig" in aid of the Royal Flying Doctor Service." - Slim Connor


 

JANUARY 2007
GREG BAIN TAKES OUT 2007 QUEST!
Greg Bain of the Hunter Valley New South Wales took out the 2007 A.B.B.A. Bush Balladeer Star Quest held at Tamworth West Diggers Club on the 23rd of January.
Greg will be recording a single as part of his win and will be appearing at many festivals over the next twelve months.
Greg now has a webpage www.bushballadeers.com.au/bain.htm  with more details.
Congratulations Greg!

 

AWARDS…and MORE AWARDS…

It was pleasing to see Lindsay Butler and Kevin King named 2007 Rock of Renown recipients. Lindsay Butler has certainly been a great ambassador for Australian and bush ballad music, whilst veteran Kevin King is a true pioneer of Australian country music with songs such as ‘Rub A Dub Dub”, and many others on 78rpm record. Kevin King recently released a new CD.

◄Eric Watson, Peter Coad, Fred Bowen, Col Edmonds, Ken Cameron (CM Records) and James Blundell were inducted into the Hands Of Fame, in a ceremony held at the Hands Of Fame Park on the 27^th of January.
Congratulations also to Lorraine Pfitzner, named a finalist in the Tamworth Citizen Of The Year, and to Ron Peters►(with peter Coad & Lorraine Pfitzner) on receiving the A.B.B.A. Life Membership award. This presentation was held at the Balladeers Homestead.

Of the many awards during the Tamworth festival, Matt Manning’s Tiara win in the Stan Coster Bush Ballad section with “Timeless Country” gave everyone reason to congratulate this young balladeer, who has been constantly touring throughout 2006 and also took part in the 2007 College Of Country Music course. Matt Manning won the A.B.B.A. Bush Balladeer Star Quest in 2004.

Congratulations to TSA and Golden Guitar winners, in particular Anne Kirkpatrick for her win with Peppinarti Cradle in the Bush Ballad section.

BALLADEER HOMESTEAD  SUCCESS
Now in it’s third year the ‘Balladeers Homestead’ otherwise known as The Salvation Army Hall Goonoo Goonoo Road Tamworth, once again embraced excellent crowds for the many Balladeer concerts and showcases put on by the A.B.B.A. during the Tamworth festival week. The Salvo’s ran a canteen ▼daily, providing top tucker at the hall so there was plenty to eat and drink as well as enjoying the music of the bush ballad artists.

▲ Tracy (centre) with the Charley Boyter Band.
 

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