ARTISTS APPEARING – 2009 – SUBJECT TO CHANGE
CLICK ON ARTIST'S PHOTOS FOR THOSE WITH WEBSITES
CORRECT AS AT JULY 2 2009
8 BALL AITKEN * CLELIA ADAMS * PIXIE ANNE * VICTORIA BAILLIE * RICK BARTLETT * SHARON BENJAMIN * OLIVE BICE * OWEN BLUNDELL * AARON BOLTON * KIMBERLEY BOWDEN * LOU BRADLEY * CAHOOTS BAND * CAMP OVEN COUNTRY * CARTER & CARTER * NATHAN CHARLTON * PETER COAD & THE COAD SISTERS * DON COSTA * TRACY COSTER * TORI DARKE * DONELLA * NELLIE DONOVAN * LAURA DOWNING * JOHNNY DOYLE * DWAYNE ELIX * COL FINLEY * LEE FORSTER * PAUL GIBBS & BIG SKY * CRAIG GILES * TERRY GORDON * BEC HANCE * SAM HAWKSLEY * ANGELA HAYDEN * JIM HAYNES * DALE HOOPER * SANDRA HUMPHRIES * TRACY KILLEEN * ADAM KILPATRICK * LINDSAY LAURIE * AMBER LAWRENCE * MICHELLE LITTLE * GRANT LUHRS * KAREN LYNNE * CAMERON MASON * JOHN MATHEWSON * TOM MAXWELL * NEIL McARTHUR * GRAEME McCARDLE * AMOS MORRIS * IAN MUIR * SLIM NEWTON * JOHN O'DEA * DEAN PERRETT * REG POOLE * AMBER JOY POULTON * PETER PRATT * DAVE PRIOR * ANITA REE * RACHEL RICHARDS * GRAHAM RODGER * MITCHELL SHADLOW * GARY SMITH * STREAMLINE BAND * CAMILLE TE NAHU & STUIE FRENCH * THE HARMONATORS * THE KUNG FU PANDAS * SHANDELL TOSONI * RODNEY VINCENT * SALLY-ANNE WHITTEN AND RUMOUR MILL * THE WILDCARD BAND * CHOOKA WILLIAMS
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MORE ABOUT SOME OF THE ARTISTS APPEARING |
* 8 Ball Aitken
8 Ball Aitken is authentic – a real deal Aussie character who rattles the roof, stomps
the planks, and gets his audiences whooping and hollering along in a frenzy of fun. A
2009 Toyota Star Maker grand finalist and 2007 CMAA Australian College of Country Music
graduate, he has become Far North Queensland’s best loved banana picker (turned full-time
guitar picker). His new album, Rebel With A Cause, was produced by Garth Porter, and his
latest single Cyclone Country is set to give him his first Top 10 chart success.
8 Ball is the 2008 Capital News Australian Independent Rising Star Male
CLELIA ADAMS *
2008 LBS Wall of Honour inductee Clelia Adams' new album, Wildflowers, is the summation of her career to date & that is a pretty impressive career – both here in Australia and overseas. With its complimentary blend of originals, favourites and Clelia’s secret weapon – the FFF – "family and friends factor", her latest studio album is sure to entice quite a few listeners to pause and smell the Wildflowers.This, her fifth studio album was released in February 2008, and the first single Wildflowers has gained many accolades on radio throughout Australia. Clelia has been at the forefront of the Aussie invasion into the European charts, which brought her much international acclaim. Wildflowers is Clelia’s own way of paying her respects to tradition and in gathering songs for it, she turned the full circle.
* VICTORIA BAILLIE
Over the past few years, Victoria has established herself as an important rising star in Australian country music, supporting major artists such as Lee Kernaghan, Felicity Urquhart &, Adam Harvey. There have been many times over the past few years when Victoria has woken up and longed for her life to change. She has been holding her breath waiting for that moment when she didn’t have to wake up in the morning and head off to a day job — when she could just sing and write songs and focus on her music. That day has come, thanks to Victoria’s stunning debut album, Start Brand New. The album is aptly titled. Victoria sees it as the beginning of a whole new phase in her life. One where she’s in control and can blossom as a performer and a writer. The album is an expression of who she is, both personally and musically
RICK BARTLETT *
Rick is a former graduate of the CMAA College of Country Music in 2006. Since then, Rick has been presenting his very own Rick Bartlett Cabaret show, with "sold out" results at every venue. Incorporating an individual style of country-rock-blues, favourites, original compositions and good fun humour, Rick's performances display the most in exciting entertainment value. Rick's first album Wanted: Outlaw, was released in 2005, was a huge success and his latest album is Acoustic: People. It has been recorded and presented "acoustically" and is break away from country-rock. Capital News review describes the album as a surprisingly satisfying acoustic album. Rick continues into 2009, with the release of his first DVD Rick Bartlett and the Outlaw Band, Bootlegged as well as a whole line up of shows and festivals through the year.
* SHARON BENJAMIN
In 1993, Leeton based singer/songwriter Sharon Benjamin she released her debut album Something For Everyone. In 1997 Sharon and husband Mark Hillier formed a duo called Strike Two which recorded a self-titled album followed by her six track EP As the Crow Flies. In 2006 Sharon released her acclaimed album Perfect Little World 13 tracks written by Sharon, and co-produced with Mark in their new Redbak Recording studios. In 2008 Sharon released The Picture, an album of covers drawn from old favourites of hers and the most requested songs from her live shows, and the title track gave her a Top 20 chart hit.
OLIVE BICE *
Olive has been writing, performing and recording country music for many years. she was inducted into Rocky Page's Avenue of Honour in 1989 and the Hands of Fame, Tamworth, in 1990. Olive won "Battle of the Indies" as Most Popular Independent Recording Artist in 1991; was presented with the The Morton Memorial Award in 1994 and was named 1998 Victorian Professional Female Vocalist and Entertainer of the Year. Olive works solo and with her own band, Magnum and with her daughter Andrea.
* OWEN BLUNDELL
Owen is described by many as the best kept secret in Australia and one of our most versatile and talented entertainers today. A feature of his show is his impersonations of many well-known people - the most popular being Frank J Spencer. Owen has numerous albums and three videos to his credit, he has appeared many times on radio and television, and regularly tours with Reg Poole and Terry Gordon as The Gunbarrell Highwaymen. Owen won a Most Outstanding Entertainer Award in 1995 and, in 1998, he was named winner of the TSA Songmaker Award.
AARON BOLTON *
Aaron is a graduate of the inaugural Tamworth Camerata and a Qld Champion of Champions. He has twice been a Grand Finalist in Toyota Star Maker. He started his career touring the outback as part of the Brian Young Show. Aaron has been chosen to perform at the Gympie Muster and Mildura Country Music Festival. Tourism Tamworth used his track, Rockin’ Up, as a promotional tool to advertise the Tamworth Country Music Festival. He has recorded his first album for a 2008 release, and the first single Just A Lie was released to radio in August.
* KIMBERLEY BOWDEN
Since graduating from the Camerata College in 2004, Kimberley has performed at Festivals nationally, including the QUT Urban Country Music Festival, further developing her on stage performance skills. Hailing from North Queensland, Kimberley was one of the first artists to volunteer her time to perform at benefit concerts after Cyclone Larry hit the tropical north in March 2006. She performed at concerts in both Innisfail and Cairns, alongside Graeme Connors, Lee Kernaghan, Sara Storer and John Williamson. Before starting on the venture of creating her first release, Kimberley was honoured to be one of the 6 grand finalists for Toyota Star Maker 2008. During the 2009 Tamworth Country Music Festival she released her self-titled EP.
LOU BRADLEY *
From the hills behind Mullumbimby, singer-songwriter Lou burst on to the scene with her captivating debut album Love Someone, which earned her rave reviews from country music’s best judges, who called her folk-influenced style a breath of fresh air. Lou had won the inaugural John Butler’s Seed grant in 2005, and her talent was confirmed with a final 5 nomination at the 2007 ARIA Awards, and 2 nominations at the CMAA Country Music Awards for APRA Song of the Year and Best New Talent for her song One Shoe. Her latest album will be released to prior to the Festival.
* CARTER & CARTER
Golden Guitar Winners Carter & Carter have created history as independent artists with their multi-award winning albums and chart topping hits. They received honours in 2004 with the APRA Most Performed Country Work. Carter & Carter have been voted CMAA Independent Entertainers of the Year and Australian Independent Country Music Artists of the Year at the Southern Stars Australian Independent Country Music Awards three years running, plus numerous other awards for Single of the Year, Album of the Year and more. They have released 11 singles, all of them making the National Top 10, including six #1's, and four albums to date, Dance Away The Night, Every Minute, Acoustic Gospel and their latest Leap Before You Look.
NATHAN CHARLTON *
The teenage bush balladeer from Junee in NSW has been a real hit at the Mildura Festival with his amazing grasp of the pioneering music genre. Nathan was the winner of the 2002 Bush Balladeers Star Quest and the 2002 NSW/ACT Champions Showcase which saw him gain entry to the 2003 Toyota Star Maker where he was a grand finalist. He also released his debut album Sounds Of The Bush in 2003 followed by What I'm All About, Slim, You've Done Us Proud, and his 2008 release Heading Down the Highway. When not presenting his own solo show, Nathan tours with The Young Balladeers.
* PETER COAD & THE COAD SISTERS
Versatile multi-instrumentalists, vocalists originally from the isolated northern outback of SA, PETER COAD & THE COAD SISTERS now reside in NSW. Peter (originally part of the popular Coad Bros), and his sisters VIRGINIA and LYNETTE (COAD SISTERS), are PETER COAD & the COAD SISTERS, full time professional entertainers with over 20 years experience working in the music industry. The Coad Sisters are Multi talented musicians and songwriters and started performing as the Coad Sisters in 1989. Their popular duo act then joined Peter as PETER COAD and The COAD SISTERS in 1991. They still perform as a duo occasionally. Their show features Traditional Country style Music, Ballads, Originals, Standards, Yodelling, touching on Contemporary Music, Irish and other influences, with a bit of Bush Poetry and Comedy thrown in as well.
DON COSTA *
Don Costa, has broadened his horizons with the release of his new EP - Measure of a Man. His first single off the EP is a song Don has written himself, with a little help from one of Australias Legendary Guitarist, Stuie French, who also produced the EP. Don is now based on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, where he has received a very warm welcome performing at most major venues and festivals, but still leaves time on his calender to tour Australia Wide. With the release of Measure of a Man Don has highlighted the depth of his talent as an Australian Country Music Artist.
* TRACY COSTER
TRACY COSTER was born into country music. Daughter of the legendary Stan Coster she grew up performing as a vital part of her father Stan's traveling show. One thing you can say about Tracy is that she is determined and passionate about her heritage and the heritage of country music as she continues to take her music out on the road. This is one young lady who knows where she came from and where she wants be, and she just keeps on getting better. The award winning album Coster Country is a collection of her Dad’s finest songs. Now with the release of her brand new album, Moving On Tracy is keeping the spirit of tradition alive with a new generation of songs that express her love of Australian country music and clearly signifies her as an artist in her own right. Moving On is where Tracy Coster is right now. It’s a journey of integrity, inspired honesty and joy, reflecting the past and embracing the future.
TORI DARKE *
Born Victoria Darke in Paddington, NSW, on July 19, 1990, this young lady has set her sights on international recognition as a professional singer-songwriter. In 2008 Tori won the Toyota Maton Talent Search in at the Gympie Muster & was awarded a scholarship to attend the CMAA Australian Senior College of Country Music, that is held in Tamworth each January, as well as an all expenses paid trip to Canada to be the Australian Ambassador to perform at the Merritt Mountain Country Music Festival in July 2009. More recently Tori's greatest achievement was being announced as a 2009 Toyota Star Maker Grand Finalist. Tori has now gone on to release her debut single Crawlin February 2009 and her Debut Self Titled EP was launched in March 2009. Her Debut Single resulting in being in the Top 30 Australian Country Music Charts.
* DONELLA
Donella first impacted on country music releasing her debut album Remember the Dance in 2000, performing as Donella Plane. This album produced three successful national radio hits. On releasing her second album in 2001, Donella toured Australia and New Zealand extensively with the top country music artists until 2007. She also won numerous nominations and awards as well as appearing on national television. Following a break from 2007, Donella is back in demand at festivals across the nation to coincide with the release of her new album The Colours of Me, which is a fine mix of up-tempo impact songs and beautiful ballads to re-establish her as a top quality country music performer. This first single Stubborn is captivating, foot tapping, and radio friendly, and a fine entree to an excellent album.
NELLIE DONOVAN *
There's something special about Nellie Donovan that draws you in the moment that you hear her sing or witness her perform. Perhaps it's her rich, soulful voice delivering every song with absolute conviction and emotion. When she closes her eyes and sings you feel every word, every line, and embark on a journey with a songwriter not afraid to expose her life openly and honestly. 2006 was a hugely successful year for Nellie with the release of her album Steppin’ Out, a Finalist in the MusicOz Awards, and 2 successful radio singles Sing Me An Angel and Cruisin’. In 2007 Nellie attended the Australian College of Country Music, and was a finalist in Toyota Star Maker.
* LAURA DOWNING
Laura, a firm crowd favourite at Mildura, now resides in Brisbane, Laura has worked extensively throughout Australia and New Zealand. A talented award winning singer, comedian, balladeer and yodeller, she is a sought after entertainer, and has supported such names as Lee Kernaghan, Beccy Cole and Adam Brand. She toured with the Brian Young Show in 2000, and is becoming well known as a strong songwriter. Laura now has 5 albums and a "live in concert" DVD and Video.
DWAYNE ELIX *
Dwayne performs clubs, festivals, and special events throughout Australia and New Zealand, as a singer and multi- instrumentalist. He is known for his banjo-playing floorshows and also presents a fully costumed tribute to Hank Williams. Dwayne Elix & The Engineers work the Sydney club scene, where they have a large ‘50s rock’n’roll dance following. Dwayne was recently inducted into the South Australian Walk of Fame, and received the SA Great Award. Dwayne has 15 albums to date.
* COL FINLEY
Col Finley’s single Get Your Country On debuted on the ARIA singles charts in January 2008. Col is held in high regard by his peers and fans, With a string of successful albums in his wake and the creative expertise and talent of his band and Tommirock Records, you can expect to hear bigger and better things as Col and his music continue to grow and evolve.
LEE FORSTER *
Lee Forster is a country boy through and through which inspires his original songs about cars, girls, dogs, trucks and life on the road. He was named 2007 TIARA male vocalist, 2007 Independent Rising Star Male, a Golden Saddle grand finalist and hit #4 on the charts with A Fire In The Bar and #8 with Drinkin’ Bone. In January 2008, he released his debut album, Keep Safe On The Track with the hit 1000 Headlights and the popular duet with Travis Sinclair The Good Tones. Lee loves life on the road touring and continually travels all over Australia.
* PAUL GIBBS
Following a finalist spot in Star Maker, singer/keyboardist Paul released an album in 1994 and made the finals for New Talent of the Year at the 1995 Toyota Country Music Awards. Paul is the Musical Director for the The Southern Stars The Australian Independent Country Music Awards band.
CRAIG GILES *
Years of constant touring, a string of successful albums and hit singles plus endless awards and accolades have earned this artist a place among the cream of Australian entertainers. Craig is acclaimed as “Mr Versatile” by media and fans alike owing to his expansive repertoire and ability to entertain everyone from seniors to dedicated country fans or enthusiastic rock‘n’roll crowds. In 1998 Craig was inducted into both the Australian and New Zealand Hands of Fame. In 2007 Craig notched up his 20th consecutive chart single. 2008 brought the release of his 12th album Heart of Australia.
* TERRY GORDON
Terry’s remarkable versatility as a balladeer, songwriter, and comedy performer and television host has established him as one of Australian CM’s most popular entertainers. Since beginning his distinguished recording career, he has released more than 25 singles and EPs and 20 albums. Terry has toured with The Seekers, Tom T Hall, Slim Dusty, Col Elliott, Normie Rowe, Jade Hurley and Wally The Worker and just about all of the greats in the industry. In 1995, Terry was named Queensland Entertainer of the Year, and in 1981 was inducted into the Tamworth Hands of Fame. In 2005 Terry received an OAM for services to the entertainment industry.
BEC HANCE *
Bec Hance has been described as a breath of fresh air when it comes to upcoming country music artists. Accompanying herself as a solo artist, she is a vibrant on the guitar as well as her own voice, adding harmonica when she feels suits. Bec’s interest in country music was derived from her upbringing listening to traditional country music influenced by Slim Dusty, Shirley Thoms, John Williamson, Loretta Lynn and Johnny Horton. Her modern influences today are Sara Storer, Troy Cassar-Daley, Norma O’Hara Murphy and Graeme Connors. Bec now lives in Blackwater QLD with her partner and has a passion for farming, country living and old fashioned values and continues to grow as an upcoming country music artist. Her latest Single I'll Cry was recently released for radio.
* SAM HAWKSLEY
Sam Hawksley is unquestionably one of Australian music’s best-kept secrets. If you’ve never heard of Sam Hawksley before, prepare yourself for something very special and unique as this record is set to change everything. Sam Hawksley’s self-titled album is a distinctive and diverse collection of lilting songs, immediate and regularly intimate, occasionally heart-broken but more often joyous and full of life. It’s an uplifting showcase of Sam’s beautiful and gentle songwriting approach, delivered in his always soothing vocal style and backed by world-class musicianship. The Album without doubt the defining new work in what’s already been a magnificent career.
ANGELA HAYDEN *
Angela began her career at the age of 11 and in two and a half years time had been awarded over 100 trophies and awards. By the ripe old age of 18, her CD and Cassette sales had exceeded 22,000 from her three albums, and she's earned the title the "Yodelling Sweetheart". Her fifth album is due for release in 2008. Angela is well known for her ability to yodel and her live performances show a versatile and talented singer with a passion for entertaining that easily comes across to every audience she performs for.
* JIM HAYNES
Although he claims to be from the outback town of Weelabarabak (it’s on the NSW/West Australian border and is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘hard place to find’) rumour has it that Jim Haynes is the son of British migrants who grew up reading Paterson and Lawson and he was educated at Sydney Boys’ High School. Over the course of his working life, Jim has been an author, songwriter, performer, recording artist, academic, sapphire dealer, nurse and teacher - often several of them at the same time. Since Cheryl Went Feral was No 1 on the Australian Country Airplay Charts for 5 weeks and spent 26 weeks on the charts. Jim has had 5 other top 5 hits on Country Charts Including Don't Call Wagga Wagga Wagga and I’ll Watch Anything. The author of twelve best selling books of stories and verse, Jim is currently writing three more with the latest to be released at The Mildura Festival this year.
DALE HOOPER *
Dale Hooper’s drive, ambition, and stage presence, has gained him the admiration and respect from his many fans and peers alike. Although Dale has been working as a professional entertainer since the mid 1980’s, it wasn’t until 1993 when he took out the major prize in the inaugural “Banjo Paterson Country Music Festival Talent Quest” held in Orange that his career in Country Music took a huge leap forward. Dale is a dynamic well polished entertainer who has also had a very successful solo & duo career and is very much in demand. Dale’s Complete Tribute to Johnny Cash production shows have been playing to packed houses in & around Sydney. With his deep rich tone and precise diction Dale performs the songs just like The Man himself.
* SANDRA HUMPHRIES
In 2003, Sandra released her first solo album Every Road, produced by Bill Chambers winning independent album of the year in the Tasmanian & New Zealand Independent Awards. In 2004, Sandra won Independent Female Vocalist of the year at the TIARAs and, in 2005, took out vocal collaboration at the same awards with Bill Chambers. With the release of her second album Take The Pain Away again produced by Bill Chambers, Sandra has established herself as a well respected CM artist on the Australian and international scenes.Her latest
TRACY KILLEEN *
Tracy Killeen , a vivacious redhead, is known for her integrative songwriting, heartfelt singing & dynamic stage presence. She has had huge success, stemming from graduating from the Australian College of Country Music, to her years of performing, & as part of the award winning duo SweeneyKilleen. Releasing her debut solo album Back There at the 2007 Toyota Gympie Muster & having the #1 selling album out of all other artists appearing at this massive national event, meant industry and fans alike took this country born and bred girl into their hearts. Her second single All Kinds of Beautiful was a proven radio favorite, reaching #5 on the Country Tracks Charts, along with her music clip hitting the TOP 30 on CMC (Country Music Channel). Her follow up release, the self penned track with good mate Drew McAlister, Good Friends & Good Times was another Top 10 favourite , reaching #8. Tracy is one artist not to be missed.
* ADAM KILPATRICK
With a lot of talent and a big personality, a true entertainer “The Big Man” Adam spends much of the year on the road. From the Toyota Muster and Tamworth to some of the smallest pubs and festivals in Australia, Adam performs at them all. Adam has won many awards for his vocals and songwriting at festivals all over Australia and is a graduate of the 2002 College of Country Music.
AMBER LAWRENCE *
After releasing her long awaited debut album The Mile in July 2007, things have gone from good to great for singer/songwriter, Amber Lawrence. Amber hit #1 on the CMC charts with her clip Things That Bring Me Down as well as securing #3 on the Country Tracks Top 30. She also had huge radio and video hits with follow up singles Gonna Fly and Good Girls. Amber was a 2008 Golden Guitar finalist in two categories - female artist and Maton new talent of year. From entertaining the troops in East Timor to shows with Chic Frontier and The McClymonts, 2008 has seen Amber tour extensively and grow her fanbase.
* MICHELLE LITTLE
Michelle Little has the country firmly in her heart and the Country Music Industry firmly in her sights. With her big voice and "stand and deliver" style of performing, Michelle continually mesmerises audiences wherever she goes. Whether its with a heart felt ballad like Crazy or a raunchy rendition of her latest single Forty Degrees this girl knows how to sing and will draw you in! 25 year-old Michelle hails from Mendooran in NSW and grew up listening to her parents' country music collection which included a large helping of traditional american country like Patsy Cline, Marty Robbins and Dolly Parton, as well as the great pop music of the 80's and 90's. Michelle's tribute to her long-time idol, Patsy Cline, at the 2009 Tamworth Country Music Festival was a great success.
GRANT LUHRS *
Once Upon a time, in the little town of Tabbita (40 km west of Griffith), Grant and two of his friends stayed up all night and wrote a song called Let's Get A Cow. The next day, flushed with success (and the song), Grant created the Tabbita Record Company. The year was 1981 and Let's Get A Cow became Tabbita's first single release. In 1982 he moved to Wagga Wagga, established The Flying Fox Recording Studio and teamed up with Hugh Crawford. You Gotta Laugh! was released in 1997 (through EMI) and featured Nude Bootscootin' which spent a number of weeks on the charts at Number One. It was taken off air by one radio station but still became Ian McNamara's (Australia All Over) 1997 Song Of The Year. It also took Grant and the Chook Raffle Band to the River Island Retreat in February of 1998 to perform the song to 64 nude line dancers, creating the World's First Nude Boot scooting Record. A compilation album called Pick Of The Bunch was released in 1999. It featured the best songs off the first four albums.
* KAREN LYNNE
Karen has delivered seven quality albums, ranging from Labour of Love in 1988 through to the 2008 release, Long Journey Home. This latest CD is her second in collaboration with respected singer/songwriter Pat Drummond. An aficionado of bluegrass music, Karen can often be found working with Acoustic Shock, a band of exciting bluegrass musicians, with her soaring vocals out front. Karen has won numerous accolades for her singing and songwriting and continues to be a much sought after act at festivals and special events around Australia. She was inducted into the Hands of Fame in 2008.
CAMERON MASON *
Cameron released his debut album, Born Country, and is enjoying the audience response to his solo shows. At 18 Cameron signed a publishing deal with Nashville’s Loosends Music. His band appeared at Festivals and shows all over Victoria and supported US singer/songwriter Don King on his Australian tour. Cameron formed Runaway Train, which won the Battle of the Bands in Tamworth, and received a Golden Guitar nomination. He had a hit single with Nothin' That A Little Bit Of You Can't Cure and has shared the stage with Lee Kernaghan, Jimmy Little and Adam Harvey.
* TOM MAXWELL
A 1995 Toyota Star Maker finalist, Tom has carved his own niche in Australian Country Music through successful touring, recording and interacting with his fans. He’s won a number of awards, ranging from Bungendore’s Stan Coster Memorial Bush Ballad Awards to the top five of the Golden Guitar Awards in Tamworth. From his home base at Moonbi, Tom travels the countryside promoting his seven successful albums, the latest of which is appropriately titled On The Road, Volume 2. He was inducted into the Avenue of Honour and Rocky Page Hall of Fame in 2008.
NEIL McARTHUR *
Neil is a very popular bush poet and his verse and humour have entertained audiences across Australia. He is one of the compere's at the Poet's Breakfast at Mildura and has received wide praise for his performances.
* AMOS MORRIS
Throughout his career Amos has been fortunate enough to receive tremendous ongoing support from the Australian country music community. John Williamson being a perfect example & a true believer but the belief shown by Joy McKean & the Slim Dusty Family has been extraordinary. At the 2009 CMAA Awards the 20 year old Bush Balladeer won a coveted Golden Guitar CMAA Award for his contribution on the stirring new John Williamson recording ‘Australia is Another Word for Free’ If just being a part of this amazing recording wasn’t enough, to then be sharing the Vocal Collaboration of the Year & Bush Ballad of the Year award nominations with two industry luminaries, John Williamson and Warren H. Williams. That is a truly a huge honour for a young & developing artist like Amos. Once again an independent artist Amos will be releasing his new Album at Mildura Festival
IAN MUIR *
Gold Coast-based singer songwriter Ian Muir has enjoyed considerable success with his albums. Ian received high recognition of his songwriting talents at the 2002 TSA/South East Queensland Awards including a win in the Modern Music section with About Us. He followed that with his win in the Country Album category at the Queensland Recording Association's Sunnie Awards. Ian is the popular host of the Morning and Evening Walk Up Country at MIldura Gateway Tavern during the Mildura Festival. A new album will be a highlight for 2009, recorded in Canada with highly acclaimed guitarist/producer Jason Barry, will include songs written or co written by Ian.
* SLIM NEWTON
Slim is a West Australian who became famous when he recorded span class="emphasis">The Redback On The Toilet Seat for Hadley Records in 1971, earning three gold records and a Golden Guitar at the inaugural (1973) Golden Guitar Awards. He travelled briefly in 1972 with the late Tex Morton and did many Australia-wide tours with the Rick & Thel Show until 1987. He was presented with a Living Legend award at Kempsey in 1997 and the Pioneer Award at the TIARAs in Tamworth in 1999. These days Slim is involved with the Tex Morton travelling museum with Trevor Day and Noel Smith of Dingo Track Records. His latest recording was produced by son Steve in late 2006.
JOHN O'DEA *
Singer, songwriter, performer John is based at Orroroo in the upper north of SA. He has performed in the mid, upper north and outback areas of South Australia for many years. With the release album If Stones Could Talk, John gained recognition for his songwriting, storytelling and performing. In 2005 and 2006 John won the Frank Harding Award of Excellence at the SA Country Music Awards at Barmera. He has also picked up a number of awards for his songwriting and has two albums released If Stones Could Talk and his latest, Old Rusty Ute. A four-track EP, Australia’s Heart and Soul, was released early in 2008.
* REG POOLE
Reg is known as the “gentle giant of Australian CM” and is one of the most decorated artists in the business, earning an OAM for services to CM and the community. His accolades include his elevation to the Roll Of Renown, three Golden Guitars and more than 30 years of recording, 24 albums, and in 2008 Reg’s name appeared in the Victorian edition of Who’s Who. He was cast as the “Silver Haired Showman” in John Williamson’s Quambatook, the Musical. His style is unmistakably and unashamedly Australian. Reg appears regularly with Owen Blundell.
AMBER JOY POULTON *
Amber Joy Poulton comes from Adelaide and lends her talents to the role of June Carter in the Johnny Cash Tribute Show Walkin' the Line". Amber Joy co-wrote and performs in Honky Tonk Angels the Loretta Lynn Tribute Show which sees her performing the songs from Loretta herself as well as Dolly Parton, Tammy Wynette, Patsy Cline, Shania Twain, Melinda Schneider and Gretchen Wilson. In January this year, Amber Joy travelled to Tamworth to compete in the Toyota Starmaker as a Top 10 Grand Finalist. Fresh from her experiences in Tamworth she is looking forward to the release of her first original CD later this year. Amber has also just completed the CD, Honky Tonk Angels, which is full to the brim with the best of Loretta Lynn.
* PETER PRATT
Peter Pratt has been songwriting and performing professionally since 2001 when he graduated from the CMAA Australian College of CM. Peter has numerous award wins and finalist berths, including CMAA Independent entertainer of the year and three Golden Guitar finalist placings. He has scored two top 10 hits, and his vocal style is reminiscent of the early western crooners, with an unmistakable Australian quality, Peter Pratt has created his own unique sound drawing from his love of music, the land and country lifestyle around him.
DAVE PRIOR *
Over the past 35 years Dave Prior has carved a career in the commercial radio industry as an announcer, program director and general manager, managing several stations. During his radio career his love for Country Music kept him busy as a performer, promoter and host of various syndicated programs. Now he’s old enough to know better, he’s performing full-time at festivals, bush events, and hotels across the country. Dave’s new comedy album Big Fat Bastards Like Me has been selling well. He was kept on the hop at Tamworth 2008 performing in 12 shows and is currently regularly working the Sydney club scene.
* ANITA REE
Anita was the winner of the 2003 Bush Balladeer Star Quest, and is a terrific example of a growing number of talented ladies in the bush ballad field. Her album Bush Girl’s Heart, offered a great collection of genuine Australian story songs, and she quickly made her mark as one of Australia's best songwriters and performers. Her songs tell stories of Australia and are reflections from her own experiences and observations. Bush Girl’s Heart secured several 2007 awards nominations including two Golden Guitar finalist berths. He latest single The Auctioneer is the first single off her new album Story Songs that features 8 songs from Anita’s own pen, two songs from Chris Pritchard and two covers from two of Australia’s best ballad writers.
RACHEL RICHARDS *
2008 A.B.B.A. Bush Balladeer Star Quest RACHEL RICHARDS is a genuine Aussie character - 10 years ago she began travelling around Australia on various construction jobs as a crane driver, working with her husband Dave and two small children. Rachel was introduced to the world of the bush ballad about 5 years ago, felt a real connection to the music and its Australian stories, and found it was clearly her “natural” style. She released her debut album I’m A Country Girl in January, and also in June released the radio single Beautiful Dreams, a new recording sponsored by the A.B.B.A.
* GRAHAM RODGER
Graham is a multi-award-winning songwriter and recording artist. Among his many wins have been 15 TSA awards, two TIARAS, and Heritage Song of the Year in the 2007 Australian Independent Country Music Awards at Mildura. He has also received 100-plus finals nominations, including five in the Golden Guitars. Recently Graham had his first hit single with Woman On The Land, from his sixth album, Thunderbolt. He has released seven albums and two DVDs. His latest album is The Fire Within Me. Already one of the songs, A Saddle For A Throne, took out the 2008 National Songwriting Contest of Australia, and the radio single Give This Hug To Daddy became another Top 30 chart success.
MITCHELL SHADLOW *
Mitchell Shadlow had a big hit in the late '90s with his debut CD One Of These Days… then all went quiet. What happened was that Mitchell went to Ireland! His brand new CD The Last Eleven Years has arrived and the tinge of green from the Emerald Isle is apparent. Beautiful mandolin, fiddle and accordion counterpoint Mitchell’s gritty vocals. Mitchell drives the passion and the opening track Better Life speaks of the search for greener pastures. Perfect Day continues the theme. Galway Girl adds a little foot-tapping fun. Falling Buildings is a devastating cry of helplessness in the face of tragedy and terror. Give You Everything abandons restraint and commits all for love. A compelling return to the country music, Mitchel will perfrom at Milura Festival for the first time.
* CAMILLE TE NAHU & STUIE FRENCH
Award winning duo Camille Te Nahu and Stuie French have reaped plenty of success with their two albums, Without You and Recovered. Camille’s superb vocals and the brilliant musicianship and production talents of Stuie have garnered a series of chart hits including the #1 smash Wives Don’t Like Old Girlfriends, and a host of awards and nominations along the way including 3 TIARA Awards, 2 Golden Guitar nominations and a win for Group/Duo in the 2006 Australian Independent Country Music Awards, and 2 finalist nominations in the same awards in 2007.
THE HARMONATORS *
The HARMONATORS (Rae Moody and Liz Kinninmont) have been steadily gaining momentum over the past 5 years, performing throughout Australia and winning fans with their distinctive harmonic rhythm, natural affinity with audiences and songwriting talents. But 2008 has been the real kickstart for the duo, starting with the release of their single Don’t Come Back in February, their album Here And Now in March, and the latest radio single Tomorrow Never Knows in June. Here And Now is impressing fans and the Australian country music industry alike with its maturity, diversity and modern take on country music. The Harmonators are two city girls who have their feet firmly planted in country.
* SHANDELL TOSONI
Shandell was raised in the small town of Dimbulah, Far North Queensland. She is no stranger to all aspects of country life and has competed in many events on the Queensland rodeo circuit including Barrel racing and breakaway roping. More recently she moved to the Gold Coast to perform the lead female role and pre-show entertainer in the Australian Outback Spectacular, presented by R.M.Williams. Shandell has performed at the world-renowned blue bird café in Nashville. Shandell's focus is now on her music. With her contemporary/county rock style performances throughout Australia she leaves no one disappointed, and the music industry amazed and excited for what is to come. As a singer/songwriter, Shandell wrote her first co-written single Here with me, which won her the International Nashville Song Search competition. She is now making waves in the music industry with the release of her debut EP Take It or Leave It.
RODNEY VINCENT *
Singer/songwriter, storyteller and compere, Rodney is an all-round entertainer. He has been special guest to many performers – Col Elliott, the Four Kinsmen, Delltones, Platters, Elvis to the Max, Bobby Vee – and has toured and recorded with Gene Pitney. Not only was Rodney honoured to work with such a great international artist but received the rare opportunity to write and record a song with Gene called What a Big Surprise. The song received an enormous amount of airplay and interest all around Australia.
* SALLY-ANNE WHITTEN & RUMUOR MILL
Sally-Anne is a highly acclaimed singer/songwriter with her list of achievements including a TIARA, and grand finalist placings in both the Golden Saddle and Toyota Star Maker. Her approach to CM is bold and unique often described as a stunning blend of country and soul. Along with her band of renowned musicians she has headlined at CM festivals in Australia and Europe and been a support for Keith Urban. Her two CD releases Changed & Different and On The Inside have won fans all over the world and spots in the Top 30 on CMC and radio. Sally-Anne has a new album planned for 2008.
THE WILCARD BAND *
WildCard /Cruisers you have Barry Case on lead guitar, mandolin and vocals, Fiona Holliday rhythm guitar/harmony and vocals, Andrew Holliday on bass guitar and vocals and Gary Walker on drums and vocals, together combining to produce a classy country rock outfit. Based in Mt. Gambier ( The Blue Lake City) the band has been able to acquire high recognition throughout most of Australia's biggest and best country music festivals. The band has released a number of successful CDs on their own label with more to come. Highly regarded by visiting country music stars the guys are often asked to support or back them their musician ship and strong 4 part harmonies stagecraft and above all entertainment and dance value is great.
* CHOOKA WILLIAMS
Chooka has a natural vibrato quality voice of strong country and has become very in demand around the Adelaide Country Music Circuit and beyond. A regular at the ‘Alcheringa Shindig’, Mildura & Barmera Country Music Festivals, Chooka has become a regular face. His willingness to always lend at hand at fundraisers right across the State has see him become a favourite and respected performer not only with audiences but also with his many associates in the Country Music Arena.