“This is a fantastic time,” mayor Col Murray said.

“It all seems to be falling into place (with the Country Music Awards and festival). I’m looking forward to a great awards in 2013.”

Major festival sponsors are expected to be announced within a week or two with negotiations finalised, but the deal is awaiting the final approval of the overseas head of the organisation.

The Tamworth Country Music Festival runs from January 18-27 and features the cream of Australian country music and a few international guests including Craig Campbell.