Friday marks a week until the official Tamworth Country Music Festival events begin and organisers are all systems go across the city.

With organisers all saddled up and ready to get the event started, officials have announced a new and charitable take on the highly sought after Toyota Hat Giveaway.

For the past few years a unique supply of ‘Tamworth Proud’ hats has been available solely to residents of the Tamworth region prior to Festival starting and at no cost. This year, Festival organisers have decided upon a solution that will provide greater benefit to the reason behind the hats – the McGrath Foundation.

Residents will still be able to collect Toyota hats prior to Festival, but will be asked for a $2 donation which goes directly to the McGrath Foundation that raises funds to place breast care nurses in communities across Australia. “The change for residents ultimately means a greater amount will be donated to the McGrath Foundation, which is a win for everyone,” Tamworth Regional Council Event Manager Barry Harley said. The hats are also available to visitors for a $2 donation during the Great Toyota Hat Giveaway events held daily.