TAMWORTH’S frosts couldn’t stop the music this weekend, with locals and fans turning out in droves for the Hats Off to Country Festival in Australia’s country music heart.
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More than 100 artists took to the stage to thrill local and visiting country music fans for a winter fix.
One of the stand-out events of the festival was the CCMA’S All-Women Salute to Anne Kirkpatrick, who was the guest of honour at yesterday’s concert.
Performer Tracy Coster said the South Tamworth Bowling Club venue was packed to capacity for the tribute, which celebrated four decades of the country trailblazer’s songs.
“It was wonderful to hear the various interpretations of Anne’s work – some sang it to the letter, others played their version,” Coster said.
“She was an icon to all aspiring female country singers ... she broke down so many barriers.
“Everyone that spoke before they sang said, ‘You are the reason I sing; you taught me country could be more than really traditional stuff’.”
In Nundle, The DAG songwriter showcase, featuring Felicity Urquhart, Kevin Bennett, Allan Caswell, Lachlan Bryan, Aleyce Simmonds, Karl Broadie and Tamara Stewart, was another highlight.
They warmed the audience with original songs while a Christmas in July meal was served up.
Tamworth Regional Council country music unit manager Barry Harley said he had high hopes for the future of the flourishing festival.
He said there had been a record number of songwriters at The DAG and most venues had reported good crowds.
“There were lots of out-of-towners and a good, positive vibe ... half of them hadn’t been before,” Mr Harley said.
“It’s a slow but steady race to grow the scene ... all in all, we’re pretty happy.
“Council may take a bigger and better role in the future.”
This year’s Toyota Starmaker winner Mickey Pye launched his debut single – When She’s Drinkin’ – at the Longyard Hotel during the weekend festival.
Songstress Beccy Cole wowed spectators in Blazes at Wests on Saturday night, delivering a heady concoction of laughter, tears and entertainment.
The Jimmy Little Bronze Bust Fundraiser, hosted by Lyn Manning, also drew big crowds.