Young talent will kick start their music journey at The Golden Gig, sponsored by Macca’s, during the Toyota 53rd Tamworth Country Music Festival.
Returning in January 2025, the notable talent quest provides a platform for emerging artists to showcase their voice. Open to children aged 17 and under, The Golden Gig attracts singers from right across Australia and beyond, offering performance opportunities during The Festival and a chance to win monetary prizes to power up their career.
15-year-old Lucy Beveridge, from the Upper Hunter, stood out during the 2024 Golden Gig finishing in 2nd place in the 13-17 years age group. A highlight for Lucy was playing with the supplied Golden Gig band.
“I don’t get to play with a band often. I loved performing my original songs with them. The Golden Gig also gave me the opportunity to share my original songs with a wider audience” Lucy said.
Lucy’s involvement in The Golden Gig, helped spark other professional music opportunities. This year, she featured in a new rendition of the iconic song ‘I am Australian (Youth Collaboration)’ with triple Golden Guitar winners and Roll of Renown Inductees, The Bushwackers and performed live with the band at Hats Off To Country, in Tamworth, in July.
“The Golden Gig has given me so much confidence as a musician, and I grew and learned a lot from the experience. I would really encourage young performers to enter as it’s a such fantastic experience,” Lucy said.
Festival Manager Barry Harley says the competition exposes young talent to the Country Music Industry.
“The Tamworth Country Music Festival is dedicated to discovering and nurturing young talent in the country music industry. This partnership with McDonald’s helps provide aspiring artists with a platform to showcase their skills and gain valuable exposure. We are proud to support the next generation of country music stars” he said.
2022 Golden Gig finalist Lane Pittman went on to compete on ‘The Voice’, tour with US star Luke Combs and received his first Golden Guitar nomination in 2023. While 2024 Golden Gig winner Maia Fletcher, will return to the Toyota Tamworth Country Music Festival in 2025, performing in a number of free and paid concerts with her band ‘The Dollys’.
6-time Golden Guitar winner Amber Lawrence said exposure in a Tamworth Talent Quest also helped launch her music career. She is returning as the official Golden Gig ambassador, and will mentor entrants throughout the competition.
“The Music industry can be so tough, especially when starting out young. The Golden Gig gives artists an amazing opportunity to perform in front of an appreciative audience and professional judges.
“Thanks Macca’s for providing a platform for young people to learn, grow and excel” Amber said.
Entrants will also be in the running to win major prizes including three separate professional mentoring opportunities with an industry leader, an electric-acoustic guitar, up to $500 cash and a $250 Capitol Music voucher in the 12 years and under category.
While in the 13–17-year-old category, prizes include a spot at the Country Music Association of Australia’s Junior Academy valued at $3,300.00, three separate professional mentoring opportunities with an industry leader, electric-acoustic guitar, up to $500 cash and a $250 Capitol Music voucher.
Adrian Sippel, Licensee for McDonald’s restaurants in Tamworth said, “We are extremely excited to once again be bringing the Golden Gig, sponsored by Macca’s to the Tamworth Country Music Festival in 2025.
“Following a successful three years, this event provides a fantastic platform for the next generation of stars to kick start their musical journey in the nation’s country music capital.
“We are proud to be able to to shine a spotlight on the musical talents of young country artists from across the nation and cannot wait to see the talent on offer in 2025.”
Applications for The Golden Gig are now open and can be entered here.
Something going on in your part of the region you think people should know about? Send us a news tip or email newsdesk@netimes.com.au.