Reigning queen Lucinda Whitehorn and princess Susie Coombes have served as Tamworth’s ambassadors for the past year, and together with mayor Col Murray, they hoped a new group of “amazing” entrants would contend for the crown. 

Both Miss Whitehorn and Miss Coombes said they didn’t pick themselves being crowned, but were astonished at how much work goes into the annual Country Music Festival. 

Tamworth born and bred, Miss Whitehorn said the quest had given her a different perspective on her city and its festival. 

“You’re not only a representative for Tamworth, you’re an icon,” Miss Whitehorn said. 

Miss Coombes said she had enjoyed helping locals and visitors alike with linedancing, ushering and charity fundraising; and relished the chance to represent Tamworth in Gore, New Zealand. 

Cr Murray said the much-loved tradition stretched back 30 years, and he thanked The Northern Daily Leader for sponsoring the quest. 

“It is great to have The Northern Daily Leader continue its commitment to this key community event,” Cr Murray said. 

“It is the third year our local newspaper has been the major sponsor – the quest could simply not happen without its ongoing support.” 

The 2015 Queen of Country Music Quest is open to 15 women between the ages of 18 and 35, who are nominated and sponsored by their employer, a local business or community organisation.

They undertake orientation sessions to develop their public speaking skills, with the crowning gala dinner set to take place at Tamworth Jockey Club on January 23.