May Birthdays

Exciting News For Clelia

Hit a long time in the making …
Award-winning singer-songwriter Clelia Adams has taken a nostalgic trip down memory lane with her latest radio release, Honky Tonk Stardust Cowboy. Clelia wasn’t always a singer. In the early ‘70s she was the product and marketing executive with WEA Records.

During this time Clelia released an album by Jonathan Edwards called Honky Tonk Stardust Cowboy into Australia, and so began her love affair with the song. Sadly, Atlantic Records didn't know how to market this new age urban cowboy, so the song wasn't a hit for Jonathan. Country music icon Lefty Frizzell also recorded it in the mid ‘60s when his career faltered and with a change of record company, the song wasn't a hit for Lefty either.
 
Clelia recorded her version on the Wildflowers album and at long last, “the hit that should have been” - finally is! This week it’s #4 on the Mildura HOT 100 and #11 in the Country Tracks Top 30. Honky Tonk Stardust Cowboy achieved #2 on the ECMA chart in Europe.

“I’m just so thrilled to have made a hit of this wonderful song,” Clelia said. “My sincere thanks to country music radio in Australia and Europe — and thanks also to Lefty and to Jonathan for paving the way. We finally made it.”

Hear it now on NfS 137 track 11 and HILLCREST 49 track 6
   
www.cleliaadams.com 
 
To arrange an interview with Clelia, email clelia.adams@bigpond.com or phone 0429 668 059

Anna Rose

News From Dianne Lindsay

Hi Folks

Things are all going well in the Dianne Lindsay camp with plenty of new musical adventures.  Recently we held our annual ‘Family Heritage Show’ at Nabiac NSW where the audience was treated to a wonderful line-up of artists.  This night was a great success with a sellout crowd but the highlight of the evening was when mother, Heather McKean (of the McKean Sisters), took to the stage and stole the show. My mum and dad first played at that same hall back in 1956 and a big thanks to all those who travelled to Nabiac to support us in keeping a country music heritage alive.  

 A little trip up the coast followed where we played at Kempsey, Evans Head and Casino.  These shows were all well attended and it was a very pleasant week overall. Then it was back home for a few local shows before heading off to Qld for the annual Bouldy Bush Ballad Bash and to the Gympie Stampede in June. We just can’t wait for a long awaited cruise to the Pacific Islands in late June. 

This year it was nice to be a part of the Central Coast Country Music Festival, presenting our own show at the Majestic Theatre and we plan to make this an annual event.

In the near future another recording is planned with many more festivals and shows in the pipeline. Peter and I have been busy with writing and although it is becoming harder to fit everything in, we find it hard to say no to opportunities that arise.

Overall it’s just been great and we thank all who support our shows and music, we appreciate every one of you.

Best wishes

Dianne
0401095306

Tony Martin’s CD Launch

Greeting fellow country music lover, it’s Tony Martin here, just letting you know I am having a CD launch for my new album called ‘Old 45’s’. This album has been a labor of love, a collection of songs I have written through the past 20 years of being on the road with my band and as a solo artist.

The launch will be at Gledswood Homestead & Winery, 900 Camden valley way, Catherine Fields.  On May 29th At 7’00 Pm.  The cost is $50-00 P/P ($25-00 for children under 13) which includes, a 2 course meal, entertainment and a copy of the CD.

The entertainment will feature the Tony Martin Band and special guests. Bookings are essential so email me at sliderules@comcen.com.au  to be apart of this major event. Also while you’re at it check out my website at www.gslmarketing.com.au

Cheers
Tony Martin

Rare Tomkins Guitar For Auction

This is an Auction of a beautiful Tomkins electric "T" style guitar that has been signed by many great Famous Australian AND American Country music artists, listed below.

 This rare fully working & playable Guitar comes from Allan Tomkins private collection. The funds from the sale of this guitar will help The Tomkins Family with ongoing Medical treatment for Allan’s wife Barbara who is battling Lung Cancer.

 Hurry…Auction Ends May 22… http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140408012893!

The Signature list:

The guitar has an Alder Body with a Maple neck, Custom single coil pick ups, Gotoh machine heads and the signatures have all been sealed with a clearcoat over the top to protect them. A custom clear perspex pick guard is also on the guitar. As with all Tomkins guitars, This instrument is fully handmade & the quality is second to none. A very Rare & collectable Instrument. The starting price is what this guitar would cost without the rare signatures!!!

This is an international Auction, so Bid quick and best of luck to all bidders.
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140408012893

Bob Howe

Cessnock City Country Music Festival

The Fourth Annual L J Hooker Cessnock City Country Music festival for 2010 commences on Friday May 21 and concludes on Sunday the 23rd. East Cessnock bowling club, Neath Street Cessnock is the venue again this year. Friday night features Paul Costa and band with special guest Victoria Baillie - cost $20. Saturday night is the Wolverines with tickets $25. Both shows start at 8 pm and tickets are available from the club on 02 4990 1444.

Daytime shows artists include - Saturday: Tara Naysmith, Lee Forster, Holly Wilson, Grant Richardson, Jodie Crosby, Steve Passfield and the Bob Katz. Sunday's line up is Lisa White, Kel-Anne Brandt, Bob Pigott, Makaylie Foodie, Mitchell Shadlow, Donella and Darren Coggan. These shows are in the main auditorium and start at 10:30 am.

The Bush Balladeers show will start at approx 10:25 am with Ernie Constance finishing at 5 pm. Others on the programme are the Australian Country music & Balladeers Assoc from Hexham, Slim Newton, Christina George, Greg Bain, Allan Lavender, Ken "Chainsaw" Lindsay and Lynette Guest. Backing is supplied by the Charlie Boyter band.  Entry to these shows is by a Gold Coin donation.

Regards,
Kevin Parsons

Dolly Parton Inducted To Country Gospel Hall Of Fame
25th Anniversary Of Dollywood Greeted With CGMA’s Highest Award

Just as Dolly Parton is officially opening the 25th Anniversary of Tennessee’s Dollywood Theme Park, the Country Gospel Music Association of Branson, Missouri, has on May 6, 2010, inducted Dolly Parton into the Country Gospel Hall Of Fame. The ceremony took place at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, in Dolly’s Chasing Rainbows Museum. Gospel and Country Music Star Donny Richmond made the presentation. Richmond was commissioned to make the induction, being a multi-award winner from CGMA, and having received the Living Legend Award in 2007 for his #1 chart songs in the U.S. and other countries.

In a statement read by Richmond on behalf of CGMA President Billy Hale, Dolly was recognized for her many Gospel compositions and recordings. It told of how Dolly began writing songs as a child, even before her formal education began. It spoke of the inspiration of her mother, and how her experiences in church services and revivals led to her distinctive vocal style, aptly described as dynamic and powerful, yet tender and deeply meaningful.

Acknowledged was the encouragement and motivation of her fiddling grandfather, who wrote the Kitty Wells favorite, “Singing His Praise”. Richmond’s comments acknowledged the consistent inclusion of Gospel music at Dollywood, since it’s inception through today. Also cited was Dolly’s current gospel music release; “Letter To Heaven: Songs Of Faith And Inspiration”, a compilation of the gospel songs released over her career. Dolly’s Aunt, the late Dorothy Jo Hope, for whom there is a Tribute Display in Dolly’s Chasing Rainbows Museum, was co-writer with her on several of these songs. Dorothy Jo also recorded a Country Gospel TV Special with Donny Richmond in the late 1990’s.

Among the many Gospel compositions of Dolly specifically mentioned in Richmond’s prepared speech were “God’s Coloring Book”, “Daddy Was An Old Time Preacher Man”, “The Seeker”, “Sacred Memories”, “Comin’ For To Carry Me Home”, “Letter To Heaven” and “Coat Of Many Colors”. After the Speech; Dolly commented; “I’m deeply honored.” Dolly, who was visibly touched by the presentation, acknowledged that she gets “a feeling from singing Gospel songs that I never get from singing anything else”. With a heartfelt response to Donny’s speech, she said “That’s beautiful. I am so grateful. I’ve really been blessed”. She turned tears to laughter when she added; “your speech was longer than my career!”  

Doris Jean, President
Doris Agency/Richmond Productions
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee   USA (865) 774 3400
donnynow@bellsouth.net
PO Box 392, Pigeon Forge, TN 37868

MusicOz

To Tim & Pat
Directors – Musicoz

As a supporter of independent music, I wanted to bring to your attention that this year’s winning country act - Jetty Road and the copyright of their submitted Musicoz entry - Million Miles is owned by country record label - Compass Brothers. This raises concerns regarding the validity of their MusicOz win given the competition rules.

Musicoz rules clearly state that anyone signed to a major record label is ineligible. Compass Brothers Records has some of Australia's biggest and most successful country acts including Adam Brand, The Sunny Cowgirls, James Blundell, Kirsty Lee Akers and others. Compass are definitely considered within the country music genre as a major label. They are a powerhouse and on par with traditional major labels. They have the influence, name, marketing power and of course some of the cream of Australian talent on their roster as stated above. Compass clearly owns the copyright to Million Miles. Regardless of whether a single song agreement or fully fledged contract, if a major label owns and controls the copyright of a song entered into the awards then surley that song and the artist/group does not meet the Musicoz rules.

It is ridiculous for one not consider Compass Brothers a major label otherwise profile country acts like Adam Brand, The Sunny Cowgirls, James Blundell and Kirsty Lee Akers would all be able to enter Musicoz or any other independent based country music awards.

Without taking anything away from Jetty Road who are indeed a very talented group of musicians, Musicoz now need to act in consideration to all the independent country acts who have paid $40 per song in good faith and whom have every right to see that the rules are correctly abided by and enforced and that a legitimate winner who meets the competition rules takes out the gong. It should be mentioned that the core foundation of your awards event is to recognise Independent Music.

For the sake of Muscoz’s credibility and to be fair on all the country entrants who entered the 2009 awards, Musicoz should do the right thing and consider the validity and outcome of the 2009 winning entry.

MusicOz Rules:
 1. The Musicoz Awards are open to all Professional and amateur bands, singer/songwriters and musicians who are Australian citizens, or permanent residents, except for the International category which is open to anyone from outside Australia. Publishing, management and distribution deals are allowed. Artists signed to independent labels are allowed. Judges and employees of the Musicoz organization, and anyone signed to a major record label are ineligible.

Jetty Road       Million Miles:
Publishing:        Control/Jetty Road
Copyright:         2009 Compass Brothers Records
Licensed by:     Compass Brothers Records

Regards,
Kara

****

Kara,

By any reasonable measure Compass Bros is an independent label. 

This is however of no consequence because Jetty Road's agreement with Compass Bros is for distribution only. Jetty Road financed the recording of their album 'Million Miles' and own the master. They finance and control their publicity and marketing. The role of Compass Bros is only to arrange and coordinate distribution of their music through our distributer Shock Entertainment for a flat distribution fee. 

I am happy to verify this with Music Oz if they feel that your email raises any genuine concerns.

Graham Thompson
Managing Director
Compass Bros Records.

Graham Thompson

Australia’s National Film And Sound Archive
Gets Behind The Slim Dusty Centre!

The Slim Dusty Foundation is honoured to be able to officially announce theNational Film and Sound Archive (NFSA) as the newest Foundation Donor. The National Film and Sound Archive, based in Canberra, is the official treasure house of this nation’s most important audiovisual history.

NFSArepresentative and Recorded Sound Specialist, Nick Weare said this week “this new agreement with the Slim Dusty family and the Slim Dusty Foundation will see much of Slim’s priceless collection of country music memorabilia and Australiana, moved  to the national capital to be stored and preserved by the NFSA until the Slim Dusty Centre opens”.  Nick says that Slim Dusty, as well as being a hugely influential figure in the history of Australian music, was an assiduous collector.  “He kept absolutely everything which makes his collection an absolute treasure-trove;  …the National Film and Sound Archive is absolutely delighted to be involved in this partnership.”

All of the Slim Dusty Foundation Donors have offered their services and support in many various ways. Some have contributed significant monetary donations or have lent many hours of their time in either a professional capacity or as an avid fan whilst others have offered their business’ services as an In Kind donation.

Slim Dusty Foundation CEO, Kathryn Yarnold, says support is still very much needed by the Foundation. “Whilst construction of the building is underway and due for completion at the end of the year, the internal sections of the museum are now under intense development. This includes the exhibitions and displays, and high level professional assistance such as that offered by the NFSA, is vital.  Nick Weare and his team are to be congratulated for recognising the unique and huge heritage value of the Slim Dusty story to the Australian community.“

For information regarding the Slim Dusty Foundation and its aims …please contact:
Kathryn Yarnold, CEO on (02) 6562 6533, or phone 1800 18 SLIM,

or visit the website at www.slimdustycentre.com.au

Slim Dusty Admin

Lee Forster News May 2010

Hello everyone,
How has your year been going?  Mine has been very busy and looks to get busier.

After nearly five years of touring Australia with my band I decided to take a little break from touring. It has only been a short break. It has been good to be home for awhile. I've just been doing local gigs 
in the Hunter Valley NSW. We will be back on the road in the coming months. I have essentially been driving a 300 ton dump truck on a mine site to fill in time. I have furthermore been writing new songs 
for my next album which I will be recording late this year.

My current album "Keep Safe on the Track" is still going excellent for me. Produced by good mate Stuie French, the songs from it have been received well on Radio. The latest single "Drink Up and Be Somebody's" has hit number 27 on the top 30 Country Charts, making this my tenth  top 30 track.  I am very excited by this. "Drink up and Be Somebody"  is a classic Merle Haggard song from the 60's. Stuie and I decided to make it a duet and it has since become a favourite at many of my gigs. 

If you check out www.myspace.com/leeforster1 you'll see a mate of mine has made his own video clip to it. He calls it "the tribute to the BNS Bloke". The song also features another good mate, Mike Moore as one of the Drunkards who have become somebody. It was a lot of fun making this song and I know as Australians, we like to have a drink for any reason. I'm sure it will be popular on radio as it is at my gigs. 
Anyone can hear a snippet on NFS release 139 and see the charts if you go to www.nfspublicity.com.au

I do thank the many radio stations who are playing "Drink up and Be Somebody's" already.  I will respond to emails ASAP. I do enjoy doing radio interviews and chatting with new people.

I do have some exciting gigs coming up including the Cessnock Country Music festival. This is the first time I will be performing at this festival so I'm really looking forward to it. Check out all the details at www.cessnock-country-music-festival.com

Another bunch of gigs is at the Central Hotel in Tamworth. We play there throughout the festival in January, however we have a lot of fun at the shows we do during the year. So come on down and meet the Jim Beam girls and have a big Party at the Central.

Well I do hope everyone is well and you've got your firewood ready for winter if you live in a cold place. I've had mine going for a couple of days now. If you live somewhere warm, well I envy you.

Keep in touch
Keep safe on the Track
Lee Forster

Felicity Urquhart Goes Back To Her Roots
Girl In The Mall hits the charts & new clip

The biographical song Girl In The Mall from Felicity Urquhart, continues to rise up the radio charts (Country Tracks Top 30 www.countrymusicradio.com.au  / Top 50 Hot Country www.hotcountry.com.au) and the new clip has just hit our screens.

The single was a finalist earlier this year for APRA Song Of The Year, at

the Golden Guitar awards, co-written with Mark Seymour (Hunters & Collectors).

Felicity’s own musical career began with her busking at the age of 11 on the main street of her hometown Tamworth, and so it was the obvious location to go back to her roots to film the clip, during the annual Tamworth Country Music Festival. Filmed by new Central Coast based director Erica Davis, the video features a number of Felicity’s musical friends including Adam Harvey, Beccy Cole, Gina Jeffreys, The McClymonts and Victoria Baillie.

You will also notice a few other well-known faces such as Channel Seven’s Better Homes And Gardens presenter Jason Hodges who is a good friend of Felicity’s and travels to the festival each year, or maybe pick out a friend amongst the fans and buskers who were all happy to be apart of the clip.

Having returned from a European tour, Felicity is performing alongside guitarist Glen Hannah for upcoming shows in Victoria late May, with a guest appearance by Sal Kimber at SpensersLive. Then Felicity will head back to Sydney for shows at Rooty Hill RSL and a guest spot at the Macarthur Country Music Awards.

If you can’t make any of the shows, then tune into Felicity every Saturday night on ABC Radio’s Saturday Night Country from 10pm till 2am, or catch a glimpse and request the new clip on CMC at http://www.countrymusicchannel.com.au/cmc/Requests.aspx
You can also view the clip on Youtube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieQ83pvLJjg

Rum Entertainment

Countdown For Tamworth Songwriter Wendy Wood

Excitement for Tamworth songwriter Wendy Wood is at an all time high!

It’s not everyday one of Those Gals, jets off to Nashville.  But who can deny that it’s Wendy time to shine.

And that’s just what’s happening for the dedicated mum of two, who lists her best moments as spending with family.  No small feat as many friends and family have grown to understand.  A tough call when dealing with the severity and complications of illness, plus the demands and support needed when one of your children is diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as Wendy’s daughter Cassy was not long after her birth.  It meant endless trips by car, never-ending kilometres and long hours Wendy would travel weekly, for over five years between Tamworth and Brisbane, when Cassy was hospitalised for long periods of times.  Wendy took it in her stride, something a mother does in the care of her child, coping better by making positive time to create lyrics in her head, or run with a word or a phrase and turn into a song. 

And yet another reason, Wendy Wood is heading to Nashville.  In under two weeks, she will step foot on Nashville ground to attend the songwriters’ festival, and escape into the world of American country music with a 4 day CMA pass.  On Friday, she’s in Brisbane on May 21, for quality time with her now adult children before departing June 1, when she and the songwriter group of 15 she’s part of, will fly direct to LAX, for 2 days and nights in the west coast capital with guided private bus tours around Venice beaches, and timeout on the infamous Santa Monica Pier, before heading east to Nashville to attend the Songwriters Festival; and visit renowned songwriter live-playing venues, The Bluebird; Commodore; Douglas Corner, and join tours of the Ryan Auditorium and the Hall of Fame.

That’s the schedule, or was prior to the devastating floods earlier this month.  The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has sustained minor damage, it appears the Opry has extensive and more serious damage to its infrastructure.  For the latest information on flood-relief, and alternative venues during the peak US country music events of the year, the Australian Country Music Bulletin has up to date news on their website. |  www.countrymusicbulletin.com.au

‘Going to Nashville is something that I only ever thought that I would dream about.  I feel so sorry for everyone that has been affected by the floods and storms over there.’ Wendy laments.

‘Just being in the same place some of my favourite songwriters have been, to see what they have seen. I just can't believe that it is true!  I'm particularly excited about going to the Bluebird Cafe and sitting there listening to writers singing their own versions of their original songs.’

‘There’s nothing like hearing a songwriter sing the original version of their song.  It might have been recorded by someone else but hearing it the way that it was originally written is something very special.’

The group will attend co-writing sessions with Nashville writers, tour ASCAP and BMI, and meet with established writers, offering opportunities for advice, feedback and insight in the music business.

It’s a trip of a lifetime for the writer who, whenever there’s a chance, is a keen supporter of Tamworth’s own songwriter nights.

Rhonda Sinclair

Media Invitation

Presentation of the recommendations for the Future of the Tamworth Country Music Festival
Tuesday 18th May 2010, from 10.30am Function Room 4th Floor Tamworth Regional Council, Peel Street

11am Commencement with an address by the Mayor of Tamworth Regional Council and Chair of the Working Group Clr James Treloar

11.15am Response from Steve Keogh Event Development Manager – Regional Events with Events NSW

11.20am Presentations end for interviews Copies of the recommendations will be provided at the event.

Recommendations Released On The Future Of The Tamworth Country Music Festival

Today in Tamworth project partners Tamworth regional Council, Tourism Tamworth and the Country Music Association of Australia with the support of Events NSW released the recommendations into the future of the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

The presentation of the recommendations to the community brings to an end a conclusive and comprehensive review into Tamworth’s annual Country Music Festival reportedly worth over $40million to the local economy.

In presenting the recommendations Tamworth Regional Council Mayor James Treloar said that the recommendations presented a clear and concise direction for the Tamworth Country Music Festival after consultation with literally hundreds of interested parties, interviews with the industry and community as well as a comprehensive survey of visitors.

“These recommendations represent over six months of work in detailing the thoughts, views and vision for the Tamworth Country Music Festival, the recommendations are the most far-reaching analysis of the Tamworth Country Music Festival and its achievements, short comings and long term aims since it began in the 1970’s.

``We want to grow the profile of the Tamworth Country Music Festival, bring more people and increase the profile of the Tamworth region, get more investment in the area and our community, and in this document we have been able to align the interests of everyone to chart the future of the Tamworth Country Music Festival,’’ Clr Treloar said.

Representing Events NSW at the launch today was working group participant Steve Keogh Event Development Manager – Regional Events for Events NSW said “Events NSW have been a proud partner in the blueprint process, the recommendations are a vital piece of event development work for the future of the Tamworth Country Music Festival.”

The recommendations are an informed and respectful timetable for the future of the event, and recognises the importance of the history and heritage of the event whilst forging a commercial and sustainable pathway forward.

Rebel Thomson

Tamworth Country Music Festival
Recommendations to secure the future of the Tamworth Country Music Festival

Market Situation
• Core Audience is 55 years and over (44.6%), visiting the region by car or motor home from NSW, QLD and or VIC
• Growth Audiences 35 to 54 year olds (42.4%), families, visiting the region by car from NSW, QLD and or VIC. 20 to 34 year olds (12%), single, travelling in groups (females) from NSW, QLD and VIC with high disposable incomes
• International Markets with high visitation to Australia or with strong country music industry and fan base: England, Canada, New Zealand , Japan, England, China, France, Ireland and Scotland

DATES
• January is considered to be Country Music month, the Event should be held at the end of the month.
• The markets should dictate the dates and therefore if a future focus for the event is families and young people Event dates should be within the January school holiday period.
• Where Australia Day falls on a Monday or Friday of that relevant period the official Event program should be extended to include this designated public holiday.
• Dates for future Events should be set with a generic marketing tag developed to avoid confusion over future dates.

Heritage
SHORT TERM
• Create a Heritage Committee to ensure that the Event’s heritage remains visible in any future directions.
• Create a prominent and dedicated Australian Country Music Heritage venue within the CBD during the Event to celebrate the cultural beginnings of the Festival.
• Continue to recognize all awards and associations who participate in the country music industry and the Event calendar.
• Creation of a public and prestigious recognition award or exhibition in honour of individuals or organisations who made Tamworth the Country Music Capital
• Publicly and prominently honour and recognise the pioneers for Australian country music at the Event
• Reinvigorate support for the Australia Country Music Foundation Hall of Fame.

MEDIUM TERM
• Commission an official written or visual History of the Tamworth Country Music story for posterity and marketing purposes. Have this history endorsed by local fore fathers (descendents) and honoured by the Minister of Arts.

Music & Programming
SHORT TERM
• A specific targeted program to attract new audiences is to be developed and implemented for the
First Weekend. Program an international Country Music Artist for the First Weekend of the Festival to target new audiences.
• Development of an Official Artist Accreditation/Registration system for the Event. This will include self classification of the genre.
• Explore partnering with other events throughout the year to leverage co-branding rights and media spend e.g. Sydney Festival.
• Develop a mentoring program between top tier country music artists and new and emerging talent.
• Develop a strategy to centralise the planning and programming of all music and Event activities in Council owned venues with far greater efficiency comprehensiveness and exclusivity.
• Create genre specific performance space within the CBD littered with top tier and emerging talent every day of the Event.
• Create and centralise a themed calendar of country music events in and around the Tamworth region to commence the process of giving meaning back to Country Music Capital of Australia.
• Review of Awards production and programming to determine if the vision of the Awards is an artistic and creative showcase or a marketing vehicle for the industry and the Event. Conduct an independent SWOT analysis of the Awards production and programming using the ARIAs and the CCMAs as the national and international benchmarks.
• Appoint a curator or skilled contractor responsible for the music and programming content of Council owned venues.
• Establish a ‘Project 40’ committee to commence immediate planning and programming for the Events forty year anniversary.

MEDIUM TERM
• Maintain that the primary focus for the Event is country music.

Festival Atmosphere
SHORT TERM
• Official definition of Event precincts.
• The CBD to become a specially planned and curated precinct for the Event. Plan and design a new CBD precinct for the Event period, engaging with all stakeholders in that area.
• Any redesign must include country music artist participation, curated stages, country themeing, street entertainment, day and night busking and traders.
• Include a curated program for Bicentennial Park or No.1 Oval for the entire Event.
• Create new commercial opportunities within the Event.
• Visitor information booths throughout Tamworth during Event period.
• Celebrate the Event with street banners and signage on all major roads in Tamworth and defining genres, themes or precincts. Use Sydney Olympic Public Orientation as a benchmark.
• Expand the intranet to include access to all stakeholders to obtain daily updated
information including maps, timetables, regular consultation and dialogue about new
initiatives.

MEDIUM TERM
• Undertake broader activities to celebrate Tamworth as a destination during the Event.
• Install permanent structures around town to identify Tamworth as the home of Country Music for 356 days of the year. This could include touch screen kiosks providing tourism information, Festival updates and information on upcoming Country Music events, music boxes and downloads.

Quality Assurance
SHORT TERM
• Introduction of a Quality Assurance Accreditation Program utilizing a ‘Guarantee of Quality’ symbol. This program could be called “TAMWORTH GOLD”.
• Commence negotiation with Tamworth Regional Development Corporation or The Tamworth District Chamber of Commerce to administer the system and to commence an education campaign on the affects of price gouging.
• Creation of a dedicated “Artist Accommodation Precinct” to manage short and long term stays for artists and bands e.g. school dormitories.

MEDIUM TERM
• Continue to measure public confidence in the Event as a value-formoney regional Australian ‘must do’ experience via visitor surveys.
• Maintain close to 100% occupancy throughout the duration of the Event.

Brand & Intellectual Property
SHORT TERM
• Collate an inventory of all images and symbols and logos
• Define the brands of the Awards, the Festival, the Event and Tamworth (as the capital of country music).
• Develop a design brief for new brand imagery for the event, select creative agency to develop new imagery and marketing collateral.
• A brand plan is required to provide structure for how the brands work together to promote both the geographical location and the Event. Develop a Brand Strategy ensuring; New logo remains consistent and unchanged year on year. Look, feel & styling that is refreshed each year. Brand
protection and management. Style Guide.
• Define the foundation Key Festival Collateral Inventory (KCFI) where logos can be applied and exposed.

MEDIUM TERM
• Continue to measure brand awareness and recognition via visitor and industry surveys (locally and internationally).

Marketing & PR
SHORT TERM
• Marketing and PR of the Event needs to be undertaken exclusively by one body.
• Develop dedicated and co-operative Marketing Strategy with a short term emphasis on new audience definition,  brand definition, strong and immediate digital strategy, international marketing strategy. See support document.
• Develop dedicated and co-operative Public Relations Strategy with a short term emphasis on key event messages, year round media relationships (including cross promotion, customer promotions, consumer competitions using newly developed event products with metro media partners to drive increased engagement with the festival and it’s messaging).
• Nominate official Event spokespeople including artists.
• Creation of a centralised and conclusive guide to the Event.
• Launch the Festival and Awards at an iconic and accessible metropolitan locations e.g. Sydney Harbour, Opera House Forecourt etc.
• Reinstate media feed from Event to ensure an Event controlled feed to news.
• Combine, communicate and consolidate the Marketing and PR Plan with the sponsorship plan.
• Develop Official Festival Information Booths for placement around CBD, TRECC precinct and out toward the airport. Clearly Identifiable and well informed / knowledgeable staff.

MEDIUM TERM
• Include Adelaide and Perth in Festival launches, alternate each year between additional launch events in Darwin and Canberra.
• December National Media Drive tour by the Event ambassador's) to promote Event and Country Music messages.
• Develop marketing and public relations Exchange Programs to deliver Tamworth and Event messaging year round to National and International markets.
• Take established Event Products to international trade shows for inbound operators via Tourism NSW and Tourism Australia.

Management Structure
A Management Structure external to Council is established to oversee the
broad operations of the Event including such elements as:
•Planning the use of Council owned venues (including the CBD);
•Year-round marketing of the Event (including launch);
•Commercialisation of Event assets;
•Coordination of Event messages;
•Coordination of Event service provision including the development of service level agreements with relevant agencies
•Research and development of new artistic, programming and other Event initiatives,
•Event Marketing and PR Management and planning;
•IP management and protection;
•Stakeholder communications;
•Year-round planning for the Event; and
•Planning future directions of the Event.

Government Coordination
SHORT TERM
• Research and map government agency connections and relationships.
• Identify any relationships and opportunities to work closely with government departments.

MEDIUM TERM
• Festival Government Coordination is a blueprint for other emerging regional events and Festivals.

Environment
SHORT TERM
• The environmental credentials of any event of this stature should not be ignored.
• Identify the best and most feasible method for undertaking environmental audit on the Event.
• Conduct an audit to give the Event Management Organization a series of modules on
sustainability incorporating event management best practices.
• Identify leverage opportunities with recognised environmental organisations and programs such as ‘Keep Australia Beautiful’, ‘Tidy Town’, ‘Don’t Waste Tamworth’.
• Develop a Sustainable Festival Communications Plan.

MEDIUM TERM
• Develop a sponsorship package to align with the Sustainable Festival communications plan.
• Benchmarks against for successful and recognised green festivals such as: City ofLondon Festival http://www.colf.org/, Manchester International Festival
http://www.mif.co.uk/, Bluesfest www.bluesfest.com.au, Southbound
http://www.sunsetevents.com.au/Festivals/Southbound/latestnews/default.aspx

Contact For Feedback:
Recommendations to secure the future of the Tamworth Country Music Festival
Comments can be directed to Rebel Thomson Tourism Tamworth (02) 6767
5313 or r.thomson@tamworth.nsw.gov.au

Rebel Thomson

IPOD In My Ear

#40 CMC Top 50 New track 3rd video clip from Danny Hooper

Released last month and added to CMC’s new additions in early May, ‘iPod in my ear’ is the third video clip from Danny Hooper.

Its debut at 41 in the Top 50 CMC Charts on May 12 up one this week at 40, is a rewarding surprise for the perceptive writer and recording artist

from South Australia.

His previous clips ‘Every Reason’ and ‘Heartache’ previously received extensive airplay in 2008 and 2009 on Australia’s Country Music Channel.  At radio across the country, distributed through NfS, ‘Legacy’ the very personal title track from his debut album appeared too, on programmer’s lists.  It wasn’t long before the industry picked up on the quiet achiever’s work when nominations in the TIARAS and the ASA awards followed, some, a flow on from earlier recognition as far back as 2004.

Shot on location in Adelaide, ‘iPod in my ear’ is the creative work of multi awarded recipient 2009 Australian Independent Music Video Award for Production Unit of the Year, CMAA (Gold Guitar) Awards, CMAA Video Director of the Year and CMT International’s award for Best Australian Video of the Year, director Ross Wood.

‘I wrote the song following a conversation with my 14 yr old niece.  Well, not much of a conversation really’ Danny laughs.

‘It’s a light-hearted take on a rather controversial situation.

‘I couldn't believe it.  There she was standing in front of me, I was asking her questions, she was staring straight at me and giving me the old one word answers.  Meanwhile, both her thumbs were going flat out on the keypad of her mobile phone, texting to a friend.  Amazing!!!!’

‘I started to think about modern technology and how we, as parents, tend to give our children all the gizmos that become available’ he adds.

‘We're talking mobile phones, ipods, playstations, plasma TVs, computers, and many versions of the same.’

‘The sad part of it all is that whilst giving them all these things to keep them occupied, we're forgetting to give them the thing they need most of all, and that's TIME.’

‘The track is only available from Bandcamp & iTunes‘ Danny says of the release and his forthcoming album, in the works possibly in September and planned for a release in 2011.  ‘This particular song may not even make an album.  It may only ever be available digitally.’

Audio Production:
Produced by Matt Fell, Recorded at Love Hz Studios, Sydney NSW
Mixed by Danny Hooper at CV Studio, Clare SA
Matt Fell - Bass & Electric Guitars, Mitch Farmer – Drums, Danny - Acoustic Guitar, Cello & String programming
Music & Lyrics by Danny Hooper

NEWS | May 2010
Danny Hooper’s self penned ‘Ride the Ali Way’ won-over the hearts of locals from Port Lincoln to Ceduna in the past few weeks.  The tribute song in support of the community charity for Ali Oestmann, was a prominent feature in newspapers and with the local media who covered the journey through coastal towns.

Busy with live gigs, he arrived home mid week in time to appear last weekend at a celebrated two day event, the Gourmet Festival in Clare, on Saturday at the Artisans Table and Sunday at Eldredge Vineyards.

In Adelaide next month, on Friday June 11, Danny will perform at the Variety Club 'DIVA CAR' Business Luncheon, and at a couple of private functions, followed by gigs at the Barmera Hotel in Barmera and a few days later in Waikerie, before he heads home to perform with his band at a local school fundraiser, Rock on Through the Ages.

Danny Hooper | recording artist, multi-awarded singer songwriter Publisher JL Publishing affiliated Shock Records Australia
2009 ASA Australian Songwriters Awards | Spiritual Award ‘You Don’t Need Wings’ Top 5 & Top 25 finalist | She’s the One, ‘Already Gone’  2008 ASA Australian Songwriters Awards | Ballad Category ‘Just thought you'd like to know' 2008 independent artists’ TIARA Awards | finalist Male Vocal  ‘ Every Reason’

Album | THE LEGACY released 2007 Title track NfS 131 Track 12 Available online and from iTunes Pre-production for 2011 album, scheduled for September

Danny Hooper’s first radio track ‘Every Reason’ reached 36 on the Top 100 Country Hits chart and the Top 40 charts on CMC Country Music Channel. 

Other tracks, ‘Already Gone’ came in at 39 Top 100 Country Hits, with CMC regularly featuring his clip ‘Heartache’ in its Australian Only segment and the newest track ‘IPOD in My Ear’ in New Additions in the last month.

‘The Legacy’ reviewed by RadioIndy.com!  |   Title track ‘The Legacy’  NfS 131 Track 12
‘The Legacy’ by Danny Hooper is a contemporary album with soulful, emotional lyrics and an energetic, joyful tone. Danny's voice is that of a top-notch veteran, and he surrounds himself with high caliber musicians.  The arrangements are well layered and the sound complements Danny's style very well. The songs are very catchy, with big sing-along choruses.  Highlights are ‘Heartache’ with a foot tappin' rhythm and some nice work on the banjo.  The title track ‘The Legacy’ features a passionate vocal performance, beautiful acoustic guitar and nice fiddle work.  ‘Already Gone’ gets the room pumping with a catchy guitar riff and a rolling rhythm section. If you like pop country, you'll like this outstanding CD. William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team

Rhonda Sinclair

Rouseabout Records News

Rouseabout Records has just released two albums of disgustedly funny and culturally important recordings of Australian bawdy song and verse.

One of the performers, Major Bumsore (Retired invited you to view the following video
Last Night I Pulled My Pud

http://www.undercovermusic.com.au/pud/

WARNING: As the subject line suggests the video contains content that may offend some viewers.

Marcus Holden

Selling Fast, Get In Early To Avoid Disappointment.

Oz Country Music Festival
Be part of
Fiji’s First Country Music Festival

Featuring
John Williamson, Bill Chambers, Felicity Urquhart & Glen Hannah, Jonah’s Road, Ashleigh Dallas Band and more to be announced.

August 1st – 7th 2010
Cost from $2299.00 per person

Twin Share includes:
Return Airfares from Sydney
Return transfers, 7 nights at a 4 Star Resort in Fiji
All Meals, Country Music Festival Tickets
Nightly entertainment, Firewalking Show
Welcome cocktail party
Canapes every afternoon during happy hour
Free Scuba Lesson, Free Snorkel Hire and more.

For more details call Country Music Holidays 1300 799 987

Michelle Costigan & Jenny Haslem

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