Lee Kernaghan flew into Tamworth this week to farewell long-time mentor, country music stalwart John Minson, who died following a long battle with illness.

In an emotion-charged tribute to Mr Minson, Kernaghan called for the festival’s founding fathers to be permanently recognised in the city.

“He should be acknowledged in the form of a building, a road, or a part of TRECC, or a physical structure that bares his name,” Kernaghan said at the funeral service.

He added fellow festival-founder Max Ellis should also be acknowledged.

“They are two great men and founders of the Australian Country Music Capital,” he said.

“...Future generations should come here and know how it happened and where it happened.

“His spirit lives on in this town.”

Kernaghan told those gathered at the funeral service he had known Mr Minson for more than 40 years and he was the “most humble man” he’d ever met.

Tamworth Regional Council has confirmed to The Leader that it had considered a “fitting tribute” to John Minson some time ago.

General Manager Paul Bennett said there had been preliminary discussions with the Country Music Association of Australia, and other industry leaders, about a tribute before Mr Minson’s death.

Mr Bennett said discussions will continue and a range of options will be presented to Tamworth Regional councillors for their consideration in the coming months.

“Mayor Col Murray, who is currently on leave, had been leading the discussions with industry stakeholders and I know he is keen to progress the matter on his return to duties early next month,” he said. “Of course, Council will also seek the advice of Mr Minson’s loved ones and respect their wishes.”

Where would you like to see a tribute to John Minson? Email us at mail.ndl@fairfaxmedia.com.au