TRIBUTES are flowing from right across the country music world as the industry mourns the tragic death of David 'Woody' Woodward.
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The artist manager and industry executive died suddenly earlier this week at just 40 years old.
Mr Woodward worked with country music royalty, managing artists like John Williamson, Beccy Cole, Shannon Noll and Andrew Swift.
John Williamson took to Facebook to pay tribute to his "true blue tallest mate".
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"Tamworth and the music industry has lost a great man," he wrote.
"He was a vibrant young soul of 40 years. We will miss his encouragement but most of all his company."
Mr Woodward spent many years working in Tamworth, and was heavily involved in the city's annual Tamworth Country Music Festival, Hats Off To Country event and the famed Golden Guitar Awards.
The Country Music Association of Australia delivered a tribute on Facebook on Tuesday for the man they called 'Woody'.
"He is remembered as someone who always spoke his mind, stood up for who and what he believed in, and was never short of useful advice to those needing it," the association said.
"Woody will also always be remembered as a loyal friend and a member of the country music industry with a work ethic that was second-to-none."
His family released a heart-wrenching statement on social media, thanking people for their support and kindness.
"It is with broken hearts that the Woodward family grieve the sudden loss of their son, brother, uncle and friend, David Woodward. Thank you for the messages, thoughts and prayers," the statement said.
His family said they plan to share plans for a celebration of Mr Woodward's life at a later time.