with Peter Coad
(A.B.B.A. President) on behalf of  THE AUSTRALIAN BUSH BALLADEERS ASSOCIATION
EMAIL; info@bushballadeers.com.au    
 

A.B.B.A. Update

ARCHIVES FROM 2004 - 2005 - return to current year

DECEMBER

VALE - JOE DALEY
One of Australia's premier bush ballad songwriters - Joe Daley, passed away in December aged 78. Writer of the all time favourite bush ballad song "Trumby", and many other songs, which have been recorded by Slim Dusty and many other artists, Joe will always be remembered as a top bloke, and a great songwriter. Joe also released books of his poems. Many of the poems have since been  recorded as songs by Keith Jamieson, Lindsay Hammond, Peter Coad, Bluey Francis and many more. A longtime resident of Broken Hill, Joe spent his lifetime droving, and working on station properties in the outback. Deepest sympathies to the Daley Family.

 

Nominations for Amos
While it was only a few short months ago that Kempsey teenager Amos Morris attended Tamworth Camerata 2005, a world of excitement and opportunities has opened up for him since July.
The young man with the innate sense of tradition has secured what most seasoned artists take years to achieve – a finalist berth in the Bush Ballad category of the 2006 Golden Guitar Awards. But the good news doesn’t stop there. Amos also made the finalists’ list of the 2006 TIARAs – the Tamworth Independent Artists Recognition Awards – in the Bush Ballad category.
And, something all young balladeers strive for is a guernsey at Bungendore – which he also has. Amos is a finalist in New Talent at the 2006 Stan Coster Memorial Bush Ballad Awards.
The song that’s made all the judges sit up and take notice is The Rain Don’t Tumble Down In July Here, from Amos’s debut CD, Memories Live On. The disc was recorded by Marc Lea at Regency Sound Studios.
Amos said while he’s just hoping to get through his hectic round of commitments at the 2006 Tamworth Festival, and maybe head for home with some “excess baggage”, he was pinning his hopes on being accepted into Tamworth Camerata 2006.
“Camerata was really great. You learn what to do and what not to do. I’m hoping to get in next year so I can learn some more,” he said.
For further details visit the website, www.thepub.com.au/camerata
Release prepared by Anna Rose, December 7, 2005, for and on behalf of Tamworth Camerata.

The Pioneers - A Tribute to A. B.(Banjo) Paterson
25 years ago, the release of ' Pioneers' by new group Wallis and Matilda, changed the face of Australian country music.
To the delight of the true Australian music lover, 'Pioneers' took some of Banjo Paterson's timeless classics, and transformed them into haunting, evocative songs. It gave Australians from all walks of life a new way to relate to poetry and in particular the much loved works of our favorite bush poet, Andrew Barton Paterson.
Since the release of Pioneers, Wallis and Matilda have released a further 4 CD's. Those being, The Old Australian Ways, A Singer of The Bush, Australian Gold and Song of The Federation, which was released at Tamworth in 2004.
Pioneers, The Old Australian Ways and A Singer of The Bush have been also been released as a 3-CD boxed set (through Rajon distribution) titled The Great A.B. (Banjo) Paterson collection.
It seems however, that despite releasing over 50 of Paterson’s classic and most popular poems, the band are more than often referred to by many of their supporters as, The Pioneers. This no doubt is a result of the success of their original vinyl album ‘Pioneers’ which achieved platinum sales award in it’s year of release, 1980.
This then is surely a fitting testament, because in so many ways, Wallis and Matilda can proudly take their place amongst the pioneers of Australian country music, and Bush balladeers.
John Wallis and Colin Perkins (the group originators) will be performing special 'unplugged' versions of their Wallis & Matilda concerts at 4 pm on Wednesday 25th, Thursday 26th, Friday 27th and Saturday 28th of January at the North Tamworth Bowling Club cnr Bligh and Piper Street Tamworth.
These special 'unplugged' concerts will feature many of the Banjo Paterson classics as well as a new batch of poems from the newly released 'Song of the Federation' CD.
It promises to be a unique musical experience capturing the spirit and emotion of the bushland that moved Paterson to poetry.
A truly modern expression of the old Australia, a unique blend of music and poetry as you will have never experienced before.
Don’t miss this memorable moment as we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the release of Clancy of the Overflow …. we hope to see you there.
www.wallisandmatilda.com.au

NOVEMBER

CUNNAMULLA FELLA FESTIVAL at Cunnamulla

The Cunnamulla Fella Festival will take place over the weekend of the 18-19 November. After the unveiling of the statue, there will be a free open air concert with performances by 'The Ultimate Slim Dusty Tribute Show', Tracy Coster and Anne Kirkpatrick.

The next day will start off with markets in the centenary park at 9 am. Live entertainment, Smoko, then the Cunnamulla Fella challenge consisting of a fencin' frenzie. loading stock feed. drought buster. whip cracking and a chainsaw race. In keeping with the culture of the bush, the Cunnamulla Fella Festival will also include the 23rd round of the Ridly-Agri Products Bull riding Australia Championship. This is the richest bull ride in the west, with prize money of $8,000.00 and the converted Opal Buckle.

Merry Higgins Tourist Manager Cunnamulla Visitor Information Centre  Email: pscinfo@bigpond.com

The Young Balladeers  Appearing At the Tenthill Hotel
Sunday 27th November. 1pm – 5pm
Three energetic, talented, young Bush Balladeers will perform at the Tenthill Hotel on the 27^th November as part of their east coast tour.
Amos Morris, Matt Manning and Nathan Charlton are gaining the attention of Country music enthusiasts all around Australia where they travel and at the same time receiving numerous awards for their singing and song-writing abilities.
Nathan has recorded 2 albums and has performed with Anne Kirkpatrick and the Slim Dusty Travelling Band. He was also invited to perform on stage at the farewell concert for Slim in Tamworth, which was a great honour.
Amos Morris has taken the country music scene by storm after winning the Gordon Parsons Memorial Award at Tamworth earlier this year and gaining the attention of the country music industry as a whole, he has since released a new album, which sold more then 800 copies in it’s first month of release. Amos recently won the ‘Best New Talent’ at the Australian Country  Recording Awards in Goulburn.
Matt Manning is a true blue balladeer and after being involved with numerous country music clubs during his earlier years he was recognised for his talent winning the 2004 Bush Balladeers Star Quest and followed that up with Best New Talent at the 2005 Bungendore ‘Stan Coster Memorial Awards’.
Together these blokes are dead keen to let everyone know where traditional Australian Country music is heading and there is no worries about that if CD sales and audience attendance at their concerts are any indication.  Don’t miss this great show!!!!!!Tickets sold at the door, be early to get a good seat.
 

ATTEN; A.B.B.A. Members/Advertisers!
Articles/Advertising/Gig dates submissions close 5th November for the JANUARY 2006 BALLADEERS BULLETIN! ...www.bushballadeers.com.au/bulletin.htm
Please email info@bushballadeers.com.au or Post your submissions to: The A.B.B.A., PO Box 7, Bundanoon, 2578 NSW.
Thank you. _ The A.B.B.A.


Spring Song camp - 4th, 5th November
For a weekend of songwriting, performance networking and first class Music Industry workshops, join in
November (evening) 4th 5th and 6th at Yarramundi YMCA Camp near Richmond on the outskirts of Sydney. Starts 5pm Friday 4th and concludes 4pm Sunday 6th . Cost $275 includes all accommodation and meals from Friday dinner to Sunday lunch.
Featuring performances, workshops and conversations with:
Brian Cadd.
Australian music legend. Singer, Songwriter, producer and hit maker extraordinaire
Beccy Cole
Country music superstar, singer, songwriter.
Dave Wilkins
Songwriter, singer, guitarist and performer with Russell Crowe’s ‘Forty Odd Foot Of Grunts’
Phillip Mortlock
CEO of The Origin Music Network and Chairman of the Independent Record Association.
Roger Corbett
Singer/songwriter for The Bushwackers, Independent Music Producer, College Of Country Music and The Camerata
And
YOU
the songwriters who will create great music, organise a performance, and co-write under the expert tuition and guidance of these world class Industry professionals. You will come away from the weekend with new friends, new material and a whole new outlook on your music career. For bookings and further information call Keith Armitage 0419 228227 or keith@songwriterslive.com.au
 

ATTENTION - SONGWRITERS
Could YOUR song be the 2006 A.B.B.A. Star Quest Winner’s SINGLE??
Criteria:

·          Australian Bush Ballad style – eg., Stan Coster / Slim Dusty etc.

·          Supplied on 1 tape/CD, with typed lyric/s. (Recording quality not essential)

CONDITION OF ENTRY:
Material to be submitted for consideration by the 1^st of December 2005.Material submitted for selection, MUST NOT have been commercially recorded, or submitted to other recording artists for their consideration or be recorded by the songwriter before or during that period between the 1^st of December to the 28^th of February.

·          Song selection by the A.B.B.A. Committee will be subject to suitability of 2006 winner eg., Male/Female/Age/etc., and the Song; Content/Commercial appeal etc.

·          The chosen songwriter will be notified by the 28^th February 2006

·          The A.B.B.A. Star Quest Song decision will be final and no further correspondence will be entered into.

·          Material not returned unless requested by the sender.
Entries for 2006 close 1^st December 2005.
Inquiries; A.B.B.A. President -  Peter Coad: Ph/Fax: 0248 836663
Or email: info@bushballadeers.com.au Entries may be forwarded to; The A.B.B.A. Star Quest Single 2006, PO Box 90, Tamworth 2340 NSW. All submitted tracks MUST be registered with AMCOS/APRA by the songwriter.
 

OCTOBER

The Bush Balladeer Star Quest 2007!
Entry Now Open!
Are YOU an aspiring Bush Balladeer artist looking for a break? You could be the next winner!
The Bush Balladeer Star Quest encourages;
Upcoming Bush Balladeers to be part of the Bush Ballad Industry and preserve Bush Ballad music for future generations.
The Bush Balladeers Star Quest is a prestigious achievement on which the winner can build his/or her bush ballad career.
Recording time & Appearances at Major Festivals; e.g., Tamworth Country Music festival (Major Bush Ballad Concerts), Bungendore Muster, the Gympie Muster, and the Mildura Country Music Festival, along with publicity support throughout the 12 months, ensures the Winner becomes established within industry and public circles.

The Bush Balladeer Star Quest purpose is to offer direction to young artists, a greater understanding of the industry, media, and to give them an opportunity to develop a solid foundation on which to build their career in Bush Ballad music.
2007 STAR QUEST ENTRY DETAILS      ENTRIES CLOSE 31st of October 2006.
 

BALLADEERS WOO CROWDS AT MILDURA
With another Mildura Country Music Festival behind us, reports of excellent crowd attendances at balladeer concerts are filtering through. Warren Mahoney, who held his alll Australian Countyr Music Show at the Apex Park in Mildura reported exceptional audiences, much increased from the previous year.
The A.B.B.A. would like to thank organiser John Arnold for his support of the bush ballad artists throughout the festival.
 Jeff Gibson (A.B.B.A. Bush Balladeer Star Quest winner 2005) was one such of these artists, performing at the festival, along with Jeff Brown, Tracy Coster, Tom Maxwell, Matt Manning and many more. A great time was had by all.

Update from Jeff Gibson

LBS NEWS
Two new album releases are expected from balladeers Bob Easter in December and Brian Letton from LBS Music. Brian Letton’s new album will be entitled “Today”

LBS and Brian Young On Tour

COSTER COUNTRY DOES IT AGAIN
Golden Guitar winner Tracy Coster is having one amazing year.  In the past two weeks, Tracy's album COSTER COUNTRY has taken out Album Of The Year at the Australian Independent Country Music Awards and Female Vocalist Of The Year at the NSW Golden Medallion Awards.At the Mildura Country Music Festival held over the weekend, Tracy was honoured that her album, a tribute to her father Stan Coster, picked up the award for Album Of The Year. She also had finalist nominations in Heritage Song Of The Year for 'When We Boiled The Billy Leaves Twice' and Female Artist Of The Year for her latest single 'Won't Those Memories Let Me Be'(as seen on CMC).Both awards will join her collection of accolades received this year - Golden Guitar Awards Vocal Collaboration of the Year,  Album Of the Year & Comedy Song Of The Year Australian Bush Ballad Awards and her finalist berth in the CMAA Australian CM Achiever Awards Independent Entertainer Of The Year.

 www.tracycoster.com.au

LINCOLN PARK STATION MUSTER
Saturday 3rd 12noon -1am to Sunday 4th 10am–1am  4^th  will see the annual Hugo Country Muster at Lincoln park Stn via Pt Augusta SA take place.
13 HOURS OF TOP COUNTRY MUSIC —  With Adam Harvey, Tracy Coster, Greg Champion, Grant Luhrs, Laura Downing, Wildcard/ Cruisers, Graeme Hugo & Ironbark, Sandra Humphries & Crosswind, Jeff Gibson, Paul Costa, Penny Burke, Chrissie Murphy & Highway 32, Crossfire,  Granite Peak, Spencer Gulf Country Music Festival Committee     -     Bring your swag, tent, caravan or camper & stay the night. Cooked breakfast Saturday and Sunday. Full bar available Full catering at very low cost. Under 15 accompanied by adult FREE.  For more details Email: hugocountry@bigpond.com  or  Phone; Graeme & Lynne (08) 8642 2595 or Terry & Annette (08) 8645 5212

Kevin Commerford from Victoria - News and Events Coming Up
In November, Kevin will be performing at at a Traditional Bush Ballad Concert at the Hamilton Anglican church on the 12th, from 11am to 11pm. The event is in aid of drought relief in the Murray Mallee. Entry is $15 admission, and will feature multi artists.
The 19th of November, finds Kevin participating at a "McHappy Day" at the Hamilton McDonalds. This will be an all bush ballad day. For more details on these shows contact Kevin Commerford: (03) 55719087

The Stan Coster Song Contest
Manilla New South Wales 1^st-3^rd October 2005 Manilla RSL Club
The event is part of;The Manilla Music & Arts Festival
The Lindsay Butler Band, Lindsay Butler, Brian Letton, Shaza Leigh and more.
Sat night 1^st October The Old fashioned Dance with the LBS Band
Sunday 2pm The LBS Show with Brian Letton, Lindsay Butler and Shaza Leigh.
The Stan Coster Song Contest
Manilla is Stan’s home town and the locals there have taken his memory to heart and organised the October Long Weekend Music and Arts Festival around the festivities.
The contest is aimed at locating the best rendition of a Stan Coster song, of which there are hundreds to select from. The Perpetual Trophy for the winning performer is being hand crafted from a piece ‘Gidgee Coal’ brought in from Central Queensland.  The craftsman involved is Manilla Entertainer and long time friend of the late Stan Coster, Reg McLoud. The competition will have 2 sections, Junior and Senior. Junior will be for performers 16 years and under. The Manilla RSL Club is the all day venue.  There, the finals will take place on the Saturday night.  The 2 winning performers will also be invited to performer at the big Sunday concert. Contest Entry Admission Fee in the competition is $5 for Juniors and $10 for Seniors.  All contestants will receive a special Inaugural Competition Certificate. Winners will also receive merchandise prizes and fuel vouchers. All entrants will be featured with photographs on the daily news page on the Internet, “Australasian Country News”.
Contest and Festival Enquiries; 02 67852620

 

SEPTEMBER

THE GOLD MEDALLION MEDAL AWARDS 2005
The awards held at the Hexham Bowling Club on 17th September produced the following WINNERS.
MALE VOCALIST - Brian Letton - Mothers Chair
FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR - Tracy Coster - Won't Those Memories Let Me Be
TOURING ARTIST OF THE YEAR - Peter Coad and the Coad Sisters
BUSH BALLADEER OF THE YEAR - Tom Maxwell - Sometimes
MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR - Lindsay Butler - Lachlan River Lullaby
NEW TALENT OF THE YEAR, Naomi Therese - Gentle Soldier
2 SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR Awards - john Williamson - Chandelier Of Stars
& Ernie Constance - Every Road I Travel.

GIBSON AT GALSTON
A.B.B.A. Bush balladeer Star Quest Winner Jeff Gibson, performed mainstage as guest artist at the Sydney Galston Country Music Festival, to a terrific audience response.
The winner of the 2005 COOPERS GOLDEN SADDLE AWARD was DARREN COLSTON.
The Cooper's Golden Saddle award acknowledges & support the great new Australian talent within the country music ranks.Darren absolutely enthralled everyone with his original songs and great style, proving to be a popular winner.
This is yet another highlight in Darren's already impressive career. He is currently a finalist in three categories at the upcoming Australian Independent Country Music Awards for Album Of The Year 'COME BY CHANCE', Heritage Song Of The Year & Rising Male Star with his current single 'THE BOUNDARY RIDER'. As well as being named a finalist in the NSW Golden Medallion Awards for Songwriter Of The Year. www.darrencolston.com

News from Matt Manning and Tracy Coster Tour .

Update from Keith Jamieson  ( on the road)


Update from Peter Coad and The Coad Sisters (Gold Medallion Winners)

NEW WEBSITES!
Camp Oven Country www.campovencountrymusic.com Peter Pratt www.peterpratt.com, and Broxburn Bash www.broxburnbash.com  have updated their websites in new formats. Check them out!

FINALISTS 2005!
Congratulations to the Australian Bush Balladeers Association
The organisation has been named as a finalist in the Rex Barry Award category of the Australian Country Music Awards!
A full list of finalists are available online at www.country.com.au. Click on the 2005 Finalists subpage under Achiever Awards on the menu.
Voting will soon be underway by members of the Country Music Association of Australia to determine winners, who are to be announced at a gala presentation function in Sydney on Monday, 12th September.
 

A.B.B.A.. Bush Balladeers Vol 7 Underway!
Compilation of the Vol 7 album is underway. Any one who has a bush ballad track they would like included, please forward to Balladeers Vol 7, PO Box 7, Bundanoon 2578. These albums feature approx 21 artists. All Material MUST BE SUBMITTED by September 31st 2005  • The Compilation album will be released in early 2006. For further details go to A.B.B.A. Compilation Album 2006
 

BALLADEERS AT MILDURA 2005

The on-line program for the 19th Mildura Country Music Festival has just been launched, and all indicators are pointing towards another huge event.

Some new or alternate venues have been included for 2005, the most notable being the shift from the MILDURA WORKERS to the MILDURA SETTLERS. The Worker's is carrying out extensive renovations and the Mildura Settler's will take a more predominant role encompassing all the shows that were previously held at the Worker's.The popular open-air venue at The Crossroads will shift to Henderson Park (site of the huge Last Roundup) and will have performances for nine days of the Festival. The Gol Gol Hotel on the Banks of the Murray will increase their shows, with three new night time concerts.

"We are in the final stages of planning and things are shaping up extremely well," said Festival Co-ordinator John Arnold. " The great co-operation from Tourism Victoria, Mildura Rural City and Wentworth Shire Councils, the accommodation industry and venues are vital factors in making the Festival such an ongoing success," he said.

Artists for the 2005 Festival includes a mix of perenial Mildura favourites, award winners, hit makers and many rising country music stars. 2005 Golden Guitar winner JEFF BROWN together with 2005 finalists CARTER & CARTER, PETER PRATT & TOM CURTAIN will be appearing. 2004 Independent Male Vocalist of the Year DANIEL THOMPSON will be returning, together with 2005 Toyota Star Maker SAMANTHA McCLYMONT .
Hitmakers at Mildura will include DONNA BOYD, COL FINLEY, ROB WILSON, RONNIE RAE RIVERS, NATALIE HOWARD, SWEENEY KILLEEN, DAVE PRIOR and STACEY MORRIS. Favourites like OWEN BLUNDELL, TERRY GORDON, REG POOLE, LAURA DOWNING, PETER HORAN, CRAIG GILES, and CRAIG BYRNE will be back and the Bush Balladeers will be well represented by GLENN JONES, TOM MAXWELL, MELISSA BAJRIC, NATHAN CHARLTON, JEFF GIBSON, DEAN PERRETT and ANITA REE

Entries for seven judged categories for The Telstra Country Wide Southern Stars- The Australian Independent Country Music Awards close on June 30. There has been a tremendous output of recorded product from Independent artists in the last twelve months and there are already record early nominations. The gala awards concert will be held on Saturday October 1 at the Mildura Arts Centre Theatre. Tickets $30.00 each will be available from August 1 2005. Further information for accommodation or enquiries about the Festival can be directed to the Mildura Visitor Information Centre, 1800 039 043

AUGUST

“CATTLE DUST AND LEATHER WINS” at QLD GOLD MEDALLION AWARDS 2005
Ashley Cook’s “Cattle Dust And leather Wins” at World Alliance of Radio Presenters 2005 Queensland Gold Medallion Country Music Awards in Toowoomba.
Ashley’s Title Track Cattle Dust And Leather was nominated for two Awards New Talent Of The Year and Bush Ballad Of The Year as they are judged by Radio Presenters from all over Queensland. The huge night was held at Newtown Leagues Club in Toowoomba to a sell out crowd.
The night started off  with Lindsay Butler, Shaza Leigh and the Butler Boys open the show follow by the presentation of the Queensland Gold Medallion Country Music Awards, which were presented by some of  Queensland Radio Presenters. Ashley was voted best “Queensland New Talent Of The Year” with the song “Cattle Dust And Leather” after making the top five. Ashley also made the top five finalist  in the Queensland Bush Balladeer Of The Year which was taken out by Jeff Brown. After the presentation of the Awards, Ashley preformed songs from his Cd “Cattle Dust And Leather” along with his daughter Kimberley performing with Ashley and also doing a song of  her own which was well received by the crowd . Anyone wishing to purchase the Cd “Cattle Dust And Leather”. Ph: 02 67621104 or Gold Coast on 07 55621292. Photo top: Lindsay Waddington, Jeff Brown, Shaza Leigh, and Ashley Cook. Photo - Left: Kimberley Cook

...FROM GEORGE ROYTER
Want a taste of some Homemade Music.... then take a moment to listen to GEORGE ROYTER's new album TIME, TEARS AND TALES.
An exponent of great Australiana music, George is a storyteller - a South-Coast songwriter who has a knack of telling a tale or two.
TIME, TEARS AND TALES contains a collection of poignant songs about the days gone by. Bringing the tales of whaling days, the Great Depression, logging, convicts, Alexander Berry and the Saturday dances all to life. He is a keen observer of life and the things that colour other people’s lives, and uses both his personal experiences and old timers’ recollections to weave these sentiments into songs.  For a taste of Australiana, you’ll enjoy George Royter’s home-grown music.
Time, Tears And Tales (available via)  www.georgeroyter.com

NEWS FROM CHARMAINE POUT
Spent last weekend over at Cootamundra WOW what a great weekend it was I must congratulate the organisers on a wonderful job of making everyone welcome and really looking after their invited artists. Congratulations also go to Parkes Country Music Club who won the Best Represented club on the club day.


SUNDAY 21st August - August Dorothy Poyck Memorial Bush Balladeers Concert.
11am - 5pm. Artists include: MATT MANNING, DAVE McCALLUM, AMOS MORRIS, ANITA REE, JEFF GIBSON, PETER COAD AND THE COAD SISTERS, NATHAN CHARLTON, RON SADLER and the CHARLEY BOYTER BAND
Blacktown RSL Club  Contact Ron Sadler 0296 864046 ronjsadler@optusnet.com.au

JULY
A.B.B.A. BALLADEER CONCERT -  HAT'S OFF WEEKEND
The 9th of July will see an A.B.B.A. Balladeer Concert "Ballads From The Bush"  held in conjunction with the Tamworth Hat's Off Weekend at The Pub.
Featuring balladeers Amos Morris, Julie Perandes, Bart Thrupp, David Croser, Jeff Gibson, Graham Doubleday, Daisy May Wegner, and bush poet Graeme Johnson.
For more details contact A.B.B.A. Secretary Lorraine Pfitzner lorraine@bushballadeers.com.au  

 

JUNE

JEFF GIBSON -  Bush Balladeer Star Quest Winner 2005
SINGLE OUT on NFS 97 -  "My Old Cooloolah Home"

BARMERA – 3^rd to 13^th JUNE 2005
The Australian Bush Balladeers Association was well represented at the South Australian Country Music Festival and Awards, conducted at Barmera between 3^rd and 13^th June 2005. ABBA Members present included Warren Mahoney, Bluey Francis, Slim Connor, Neville Molloy, Bill Bedford, Cheryl Lethlean and Graham Butterworth – and of course, there were many other singers, poets and musicians from across SA, NSW, WA and VIC, contributing to a successful event overall.
Neville Molloy was also one of four people inducted into the SA HALL OF FAME during this year’s event. Bush Ballads were a feature at many of the venues, in particular, the shows at Overland Corner Hotel; the Barmera Monash Football Club; the marquee at Cobdogla Station Caravan Park; in the Bonney Theatre; and at the Hands of Fame Park. Positive comments and feedback from folks attending these shows was truly pleasing and indicates much stronger interest now being shown in our Australian compositions.  As part of the second Sunday’s Awards of Excellence performances, the Festival Committee sought assistance from our Bush Balladeers to present a supporting show in the Elder’s Sound Stage (previously known as the Rocky Page Sound Shell), which is an outdoor venue. Despite the rather chilly breeze, we attracted a small, but enthusiastic crowd of supporters and presented thirteen Balladeers singing their own - and other Aussie compositions. This included John O’Dea, a fine balladeer from Orroroo in SA, who had earlier in the day, won the prestigious Frank Harding Memorial Trophy. John has just released a new CD entitled - “If Stones Could Talk” – (more info on www.johnodea.com.au) - so keep your eyes peeled for this one; it’s very good. Anyway, the upshot for ABBA Members and supporters is that planning is now underway for a featured Bush Balladeers show to be included on next year’s Programme - and that’s good news. And for anyone interested in attending next year’s SA Festival, the dates will be 2^nd to 12^th June 2006. Further info can be obtained by phoning (08) 8341 0979 or Mobile: 0417 868 571 : Email: rcmcfest@riverland.net.au  - and the Website is: www.riverlandcountrymusic.net.au.  -  Article supplied by Graham Butterworth     Pic. Neville Molloy.

"This will be my screen debut, most exciting and a completely different experience to live performance," Tracy said.
http://www.tracycoster.com.au



On Tour
Keith Jamieson, Alisha Smith and Rick & Cathy will be leaving for their around Australia tour in June, starting off at Chinchilla on the Friday 24th June, Warwick 25th June and Tent Hill 26th June where they will launch a new album for Rick & Cathy, also Keith's new album and his autobiography book.  Then they will head north to Bundaberg on the 30th June, Rockhampton 1st July, Mackay 2nd July and Capella 3rd July.  They will be on tour for four months, right around Australia and this year they will include Tasmania as part of the tour.   Further dates can be found in the July issue of Capital News and the Balladeers magazine.  They will be performing everywhere from aboriginal communities, clubs, pubs and old time country halls.   They hope to catch up to you somewhere around the ridges.
PIC. Alisha Smith and Keith Jamieson

MAY

JEFF GIBSON RECORDS SINGLE!
A.B.B.A. Bush Balladeer Star Quest winner 2005 Jeff Gibson has just recorded his Star Quest single with LBS Studios with Lindsay Butler producing. The song is a Wally Brummel composition entitled "My Old Cooloolah Home" and is anticipated being released in June on NFS. Keep an ear out!

NEWS FROM ERNIE CONSTANCE

JULIE PERANDES A.B.B.A. Tamworth Camerata Entrant 2005!
A.B.B.A. Tamworth Camerata Entrant Julie Perandes from Wynnum in the Brisbane area is without doubt a very talented young lady with a big future in bush ballads. The Camerata Scholarship will be of great benefit to furthering her musical career. Julie Perandes has been a long time performer in the Country Music Clubs. Congratulations Julie from the A.B.B.A.
The 2005 A.B.B.A.. Tamworth Camerata Entrant is proudly sponsored by A.B.B.A. member David Croser of Minlaton SA.

TERRY & JENNY – The Soldier With The Banjo
Terry and Jenny (Bennetts) have released an album entitled ‘The Soldier With The Banjo’. The album contains their own compositions and a cover version of ‘Camooweal’. Stand out original tracks for me, include ‘The Soldier With The Banjo’,  ‘Old Love New Love’, ‘Ballad Of Eureka Stockade’, and a gospel song ‘Watch over Me’. Musicians featured Dave Clarke Harmonica, Erik Kawarski fiddle, John Bennetts Drums and Backing vocals, Mark Donohoe bass, Lucky Oceans dobro, Rick Eastman drums, Eunice Hicks fiddle, Ormone Waters tin whistle, Terry Bennetts guitars, mandolin and banjo. There is a total of eight tracks on this excellent album. Available from Terry and Jenny, 22 Moondyne Trail, Gnangara 6065 WA.
Terry Bennetts also wrote the song "First Winter Rains" recorded by Anita Ree.

 NEWS from LBS Studios...
2005 A.B.B.A. Bush Balladeer Star Quest winner Jeff Gibson of Kyogle will be recording his Star Quest Winners single with Lindsay Butler producing at LBS Studios in the near future, so keep an ear out for this single on NFS soon. Jeff will also be performing at major festivals throughout the year.
The album release from Ashley Cook 'Cattle Dust and Leather' has a collection of strong traditional bush ballads which are striking a chord with the fans and media alike.
Ian Quinn has returned to the studio after several years break due to personal reasons since making the finals of the Golden Guitars with ‘Coster’. During his break he’s written a swag of great songs and he’s always been considered one of the best of the new breed bush balladeers. This one will hit the market place mid-year.
Ernie Constance will also be back in the studio in July. Aside from his writing prowess, Ernie has become an accomplished and sought after performer and his many fans will be eagerly awaiting this album as it’s been a couple of years since his last release ‘A Dinkum Bushman’s Hands.’
Tom Maxwell has backed up his highly acclaimed ‘Rodeo Wind’ album with his new CD ‘Sometimes’. Tom received rave reviews and a Golden Guitar Finalist berth for his ‘Rodeo Wind’ album. It can be hard to follow up such an achievement but Tom has done it again as ‘Sometimes’ is already being hailed as the benchmark bush ballad album for 2005.
Brian Letton is currently recording his new album. This collection will feature a couple of the strongest contesting ballads of the year. Brian is capable of delivering power ballads and when they’re bush ballads written by prominent traditional writers it’s an exciting mix. Two of the standout songs are ‘I Wonder’ by Rick and Thel’s son in law, Col Wrightson and ‘Two Chords’ written by Rick Aitchison and Shaza Leigh.
Shaza Leigh also has a couple of standout bush ballad songs on her new album including ‘Old Calare’ that she co-wrote with the late Greg Gordon.
On the instrumental front, both Lindsay Butler and Lindsay Waddington will have new LBS releases. Both guitarists feature prominent bush ballad tracks on the albums.
Lindsay will also be producing more albums for the Drover Music Label including Melissa Bajric and Bob Easter. These two leading Drover Artists have established their careers within the traditional music ranks and their new albums will please the strong following they’ve built over the years.
Anita Ree will be recording a single from her 2006 album and Queenslanders, Michael and Pat Pincott will release their new singles on The LBS Country Collection – volume 11.


AMOS MORRIS RECORDS
One of the most exciting youngsters coming through in the bush ballad world is talented bush ballad artist Amos Morris. Hailing from Kempsey NSW, Amos has been steadily accruing well deserved accolades for his performances. Amos Morris is 2005 Tamworth TSA Camerata Scholarship Entrant, and is currently recording his debut album with Regency Sound Studios. The album release is anticipated mid year.




EVENTS COMING UP
Events coming up in April include the annual Boondooma Heritage Muster (Anzac Weekend). This event features plenty of top bush balladeer entertainment from many artists including Dean Perrett, Laura Downing, Pat Pincott and many more. There is also heritage events and plenty of camp oven cooked meals and camping available. Contact  Lynn Seiler (07) 4 1680161.

29th April/1st May the Broxburn Bash (Qld near Pittsworth) is on again. Great array of bush ballad and contemporary talent including Peter Pratt, Peter Coad & the Coad Sisters, Kerry Kennedy and Band plus many more, so go along and support a great event. They also have camp oven cooking on the grounds. Contact Tiffany Robertson Mobile: (0407) 030756

MARCH
BUSH BALLAD CLUB
A Bush Ballad Club has been formed in the NSW Hunter area.
An inaugural meeting and music afternoon to be held at West Wallsend Workers Club on Sunday 20 March at 2 pm.
Anyone wishing for more information can contact;
Neil Tyne
0249658492
mob 0428826302b

FEBRUARY

LBS TOURS TASSIE

LBS Records artists Shaza Leigh, Lindsay Butler and the Butler Boys will be touring Tasmania throughout late February. keep an eye and an ear out for their great show.

WINNERS ON TOUR

Jeff Brown (Golden Guitar winner) Keith Jamieson (Tiara Bush Ballad winner), Alisha Smith (Barry Thornton Award winner at Bungendore 2005) have been touring NSW, Victoria Tassie and will conclude their trip with some Queensland venues in mid March. I attended their show at the Goulburn Railway Bowls club auditorium where Jeff, Keith, Alisha, and Sharon Smith ably assisted by Ted Thompson on his lagerphone played an excellent show to a full house of dedicated fans, who sang along and had a great time. I received reports from Ron Morgan of Warrnambool that the same show received great accolades there as well.

NEW ALBUMS ON THE BLOCK

The A.B.B.A. Compilation album “Vol 6” featuring 23 artists is now available, along with the “Balladeers Remembered Tribute 4” featuring nine artists. The albums are both available by writing to the A.B.B.A. PO Box 90, Tamworth 2340 NSW or going to the website www.bushballadeers.com.au/product.htm . Other new albums out is the new one from Queensland balladeer Pete Smith with his “Call of Mount Lindsay” featuring 12 tracks, six of which are self penned by Pete. There are some great tracks including the old Smoky Dawson classic ‘Where The roper Flows’, and the Ron Peters writing ‘ Out On The Warrego’, which has been an all time hit for Ron. Contact (0418) 780 029.

‘This Old Guitar Of Mine’ is the latest from popular artist Graham Rodger. The album features ten of Graham’s own writings and one of Rick Aitchison’s and one from Alan McPherson. Another great album from Graham. Contact (0427) 713903. Ashley Cook is one of Australia’s young balladeers making a name for himself and his debut CD ‘Cattle, Dust and Leather’ is true bush ballad, with twelve all Australian songs including a duet with daughter Kimberley. Three compositions from Bioela balladeer Wilf Elliott. My two favourite tracks are ‘Paddy’ written by Dennis Evans and Shaza Leigh, and ‘Ride Ringer Ride’ written by Wave Jackson. ‘Smoko Time, Damper, Brownie Cake and Billy Tea’ is the title of the latest album form Barry K. and Lyn Chandler. This album has some very strong songs from this dynamic duo. Contact (0409) 275 403.

BUNGENDORE MUSTER 2005
The 20th Bungendore Muster was a great weekend of all Australian music.
The festival is unique for maintaining it's  Australian flavour, something that it has become renowned for. This year featured  an even stronger contingent of Bush Balladeer performers, which I can only judge from the huge appreciative crowds over the weekend were very well received.
It was, in fact the biggest and best Bungendore Muster ever!
Congratulations to Maureen Gordon and the committee for a job well done!
Jeff Gibson (Bush Balladeer Star Quest Winner 2005) was a big hit with the crowd and made a lot of new aquaintenances amongst the industry and the audience.
Congratulations to the following award winners:
2005 Bungendore Stan Coster Memorial Award Winners!
(winners marked with a *)
MALE VOCAL:
Jeff Brown - Where the Yellow Kapoks Bloom,
 * Brian Letton - Leave Him In the Longyard,
Tom Maxwell - Old Drovers
FEMALE VOCAL:
Tracy Coster - The Bushman's Song
 * Laura Downing - Circle Of Sawdust
Leanda O'Brien - Roughrider Don
NEW TALENT
Ashley Cook -The Battle with The Roan
Gaylene Jennings - I've Only Loved One Man
 * Matt Manning - You've Gotta Go West Young Fella
GROUP OR DUO
 * Lindsay Butler and Laurie Minson - When The Rain Tumbles Down In July
Tracy Coster and Anne Kirkpatrick - Back to The Saltbush Plains
Lindsay Waddington - Country Revival
SONGWRITER
 * W. Crosby and Jeff Brown - Fred Gutte
Keith Jamieson - A Picture OF Australia
Graham Roger - Matilda Highway
COMEDY SONG
Jeff Brown - Send Her Down Hughie
 * Tracy Coster - Lawson's Loaded Dog
Rita Schneider - I've Had Everything
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
 * Tracy Coster - Coster Country
Keith Jamieson - A Picture Of Australia
Graham Rodger - A Gypsy's Life

BARRY THORNTON AWARD  - Alisha Smith

TAMWORTH Parade A.B.B.A. Float.

Some pics here of our members on the Tamworth Float, always  a great day.
 

Also pic of the crowd at the Balladeers Homestead, plus pic of Rick Carey, daughter Lynn and her son on stage at the 'Homestead'.

Jeff Brown - 2005 Golden Guitar Winner
Jeff Brown’s done it! On Saturday 15^th January there were some pretty high hopes around Tamworth that this year would see the traditional Bush Ballad music come to the fore, with some great nominations in the ‘Bush Ballad of the Year’ section at the Tamworth Golden Guitar Awards. All of the nomination were pretty good choices and it was going to be anyone’s bet. Tom Curtain opened the show with his nomination - ‘Drink Drovin’, Peter Pratt was nominated with ‘Where I’m Longing To Go’, Keith Jamieson was up there with ‘A Picture Of Australia’, John Williamson with ‘It Goes Without Saying’, and Jeff Brown with a song written by Wave Jackson – ‘Where The Yellow Kapocks Bloom’. When the winner was announced the applause were unmistakable and even Jeff’s mate Tracey Coster gave out a loud “yes”, with her fist in the air. Producer, Marc Lea was bought to tears, as was Jeff’s Dad, who was listening to the live radio broadcast in his hometown of Mt Tyson Qld. Jeff recorded this award winner at Regency Sound after he had a chance meeting with Wave Jackson, who was recording his own album at the time. During a get together of the clan down at Regency Sound, (that included, Keith Jamieson, Alisha Smith, Wave & Elaine Jackson, Matt Manning. Phil & Lyn Manning, Cathy Diete and Rick Gay. Jeff called in to see how things were going, Wave called him over to have a listen to a song he had written, and strummed along while he sang it. Browny liked it straight away. The melody of this song is haunting as it tells of the beautiful scenery, people and places that Wave remembers from his travels around our great land. The musicians on this album were exceptional and the guitar work by Ricky Shipp has made him one of country music’s finest lead guitarists. Of course it goes without saying that the smooth, warm voice of Jeff Brown makes ‘Where The Yellow Kapocks Bloom’ and every song on the album a pleasure to listen to. It’s a real winner and will be remembered as one of the best Bush Ballad albums for many years to come. Congratulations Browny and I bet there’s a few more to come your way. Photo: Jeff Brown/Wave Jackson - Article supplied by Vicki Lea - REGENCY SOUND

Keith  Jamieson
2005 ‘HANDS OF FAME’ inductee - 2005 TIARA WINNER
Keith Jamieson (Jammo) finally received the recognition and honour he deserved when he was inducted into the Hands of Fames during the Tamworth Country Music Festival.  Keith was also a final five nomination in the Golden Guitar and TIARA Awards, so this was sure to be a memorable festival for him. Keith was still riding high and very excited after his good mates Jeff Brown & Wave Jackson were awarded Golden Guitars on the previous Saturday night, although Keith himself had been nominated for the same award. On Tuesday night Keith was again recognized for his talent, receiving a TIARA Award for- ‘Best Bush Ballad’, with the title track from his latest album –‘A Picture Of Australia’. Keith Jamieson was on a ‘natural high’ all week and deserved to feel just that way. He has done so much for Bush Ballad music throughout the years. He is a prolific songwriter, having penned songs for many artists including Slim Dusty, Sharon Heaslip, Nathan Charlton and this year’s Golden Guitar winner Jeff Brown. He has recorded 4 albums and 2 E.P.s to date and has another one on the way. There is no artist more fitting for this recognition and awards and we congratulate Keith for his hard work and inspiration to others. Good on ya mate!!!  Article supplied Vicki Lea - REGENCY SOUND

Graham Rodger

Wins TSA ‘Bush Ballad of the Year’ 2005
Graham Rodger continued the winning run for Regency Sound Bush Balladeers this year at Tamworth when he won the ‘Bush Ballad of the Year’ section of the TSA Awards, with a track off his ‘A Gypsy’s Life’ album – ‘ Matilda Highway’.
Graham has recorded two albums in the last twelve months, the first, - ‘A Gypsy’s Life’ and his latest – ‘This Old Guitar Of Mine’. ‘A Gypsy’s Life’ was Graham’s first album at Regency Sound and has all but sold out since being released in May of last year. This indicates the popularity of this talented songwriter and the albums he co- produces with Marc Lea. The winning track off this album ‘Matilda Highway’ is a wonderful walk through the history pages of our country and the many attractions found along this stretch of road. The home of Australia’s QANTAS, the Stockman’s Hall of Fame and the birthplace of the Australian Labour Party in Barcaldine, just to name a few. Graham has a wonderful gift of keeping alive our heritage in his songs that are a pleasure to listen to and sing along with. Graham also won a TSA Award in 2004 in the National Country Song-writing Contest with the title track from ‘A Gypsy’s Life ‘ album, proving that this album was a true winner from the beginning. Although Graham has set a very high benchmark for himself, his latest album, ‘This Old Guitar of Mine’, is selling like the proverbial hotcake and receiving reviews, which surpass those he received for ‘A Gypsy’s Life’. Graham Rodger will continue to be a well-known name in Australian balladeer music circles for many years to come and has a lot more to give to Australian country music fans.  Congratulations Graham on your wonderful talent. Photo: Marc Lea/Graham Rodger - article supplied by Vicki Lea REGENCY SOUND
 

More news after Bungendore Muster...
 

OTHER NEWS...

Reg Poole is about to rerelease his 1977 record "The Long Paddock" on CD. The album was first released n vinyl and now with five new tracks added is being released on CD. Fans of Reg's work will welcome this album reissue and the release date is anticipated being early this year. Keep and eye out for further details.

DECEMBER

VALE - GREG GORDON
It is with great sadness we bring the news of the passing of Greg Gordon on Thursday 2nd December 2004. Greg is the husband of Maureen Gordon and together they are the organisers of the annual Bungendore Muster, Bungendore NSW. The Muster is to celebrate it's 20th year in February 2005, due to the hard work of Greg and Maureen and the committee.
Greg Gordon was a quiet and gentle person and a great bloke and will be a great loss as a friend to us all. On behalf of the A.B.B.A. we extend our deepest sympathies to Maureen and all the family. -  A.B.B.A.

GREGORY GORDON 20.10.1932 2.12.2004 Suddenly at home. Beloved husband of Maureen. Much loved father and father-in-law of Bev and Wayne, Brian and Noni. Adored granddad of Tim, Chris, Caitlin and Michael. A special person, a special face A special someone we can never replace. Requiem Mass, for the repose of the soul of Greg, will be offered in St Mary's Catholic Church, Turallo Street Bungendore on THURSDAY December 9, 2004, at 2pm. At the conclusion of Mass, burial will take place in the lawn section of the Bungendore Cemetery.

GREAT BUSH BALLAD ARTIST LINEUP IN GOLD GUITARS 2005
The Bush Ballad section of the Golden Guitars '05 has a great top five lineup. Jeff Brown, Peter Pratt, Keith Jamieson, Tom Curtain, and John  Williamson. Great Aussie Artists with great Aussie songs. It makes the A.B.B.A. very proud to have four of our members listed in this section. Congrats to all and best wishes to these achievers in this very prestigious event.

CONGRATS TRACY & ANNE
It's great  to see that Tracy Coster, A.B.B.A. member and noted artist is in the Golden Guitars Vocal Collaboration Of The Year with Anne Kirkpatrick for the Stan Coster song 'Back to the Saltbush Plains'  taken from Tracy Coster's new album 'Coster Country'. Best wishes to them both for a winner's spot.

TIARA'S
Congrats also to all the bush ballad artist who are finalists in the TIARA Awards 2005 - Best wishes to you all!

NOVEMBER
News This Month

THE JANUARY BALLADEERS BULLETIN AND COMPILATION ALBUMS ON SCHEDULE
The January Balladeers Bulletin has just gone to press and if all goes to schedule, members should receive their Bulletins by mid December (in time for Xmas shopping) . The Compilation albums will be available at the Tamworth 2005 festival. "The Balladeers" Vol 6 album contains a wide variety of bush ballad talent and our Tribute series Trib No. 4, entitled the "Hillbilly Road Show" contains  a fine selection  of our heritage artists such as Tex Morton, etc.
For more information on the albums go to Product.

BUNGENDORE FINALISTS ANNOUNCED!
Stan Coster Memorial Australian Bush Ballad Awards - Bungendore 2005 Finalists!
MALE VOCAL:
Jeff Brown - Where the Yellow Kapoks bloom,
Brian Letton - Leave Him In the Longyard,
Tom Maxwell - Old Drovers
FEMALE VOCAL:
Tracy Coster - The Bushman's Song
Laura Downing - Circle Of Sawdust
Leanda O'Brien - Roughrider Don
NEW TALENT
Ashley Cook -The Battle with The Roan
Gaylene Jennings - I've Only Loved One Man
Matt Manning - You've Gotta Go West Young Fella
GROUP OR DUO
Lindsay Butler and Laurie Minson - When The Rain Tumbles Down In July
Tracy Coster and Anne Kirkpatrick - Back to The Saltbush Plains
Lindsay Waddington - Country Revival
SONGWRITER
W. Crosby and Jeff Brown - Fred Gutte
Keith Jamieson - A Picture OF Australia
Graham Roger - Matilda Highway
COMEDY SONG
Jeff Brown - Send Her Down Hughie
tracy Coster - Lawson's Loaded Dog
Rita Schneider - I've Had Everything
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Tracy Coster - Coster Country
Keith Jamieson - A Picture Of Australia
Graham Rodger - A Gypsy's Life

 

OCTOBER

2004 AUSTRALIAN COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS
The ACRA’s…….The Finalists and the Winners!
Following the inaugural awards 14 years ago the 2004 awards presentation took place at Rooty Hill RSL Club in Western Sydney on Saturday night 23rd October during the Annual “Tamworth on Parade Country Spectacular”.
The awards acknowledge excellence in the Australian Country Music Recording Industry. Judging is based entirely on returns from radio presenters from across all states and territories.
The Finalists (Winners marked ## ) are;
The Australian Country Male Album of the Year
Keith Jameson, Graham G Toole, ## Winner Brian Letton, Paul McCloud, Reg Poole, Rex Dallas
The Australian Country Female Album of the Year
Tracy Coster, Anita Ree,  Charmaine Pot, ## Winner Shaza Leigh, Evelyn Bury
Australian Bush Ballad Album of the Year
Graham Rodger, ## Winner Keith Jamieson, Anita Ree, Tracy Coster,Charmaine Pout
Australian Instrumental Album of the Year
Gary Smith, The Davidson’s, Nev Molloy, ## Winner Lindsay Butler (Play me a Sad Hank Williams Song), Michael Fix
Australian Collaboration Album of the Year
ABBA No 5, ## Winner LBS Studios; A Tribute to Slim LBS No 9, Kathy Summers & Lance Ellis, The Davidson’s
Australian New Talent Album of the Year
Graham G Toole, Natalie Howard, Ronnie Rae Rivers, ## Winner Anita Ree
Australian Country Radio Station of the Year
## Winner Coffs Harbour, Gosford, Queanbeyan, Port Macquarie and Nowra.
Australian Country Music Club of the Year
Wagga Wagga,(# # Winner Canberra) and Tamworth.


BOONDOOMA WINS CAMP OVEN TITLE
The Boondooma team, featuring Buddy Thomson, was crowned champion camp oven cooks at the recently held Australian Camp Oven Festival at Millmerran.
The Boondooma beat a strong field of thirteen competitors to win the coveted camp oven kindly donated by Furphy's Foundry.
The four person team opened their campaign with a second place for scones on day 1, missed a place for dampers, scored a third place with the Saturday evening meal, and were rewarded next morning by taking out the scone top prize.
The Boondooma team came with a firstt finish with Christmas lunch of roast pork and apple sauce followed by plum pudding and brandy sauce.
Festival president Val Harris said that competition was tight and she was delighted with the enthusiasm shown by all competitors.
"The competitors really went out of their way to spruce up their camps for the public as well as cooking up great meals."
The Australian Camp Oven Festival is held every two years to preserve the art of camp oven cooking.
At this year's event well known Bush Balladeers, Keith Jamieson, Barry K Chandler and others entertained the 4,000 strong crowd.
"I think Camp Oven Cooking, bush poetry, yarn spinning, and genuine Australian Country Music really shows that our format is on a winner. Just look at the crowds we got to this year's event."
The next Australian Camp Oven Festival is on 7-8 October 2006.

TRACY COSTER TAKES OUT HERITAGE AWARD
It was great to see Tracy Coster take out the Heritage Award at Mildura, with a track "The Old Bush Barbecue" from her latest album "Coster Country". The Album, which is a tribute to her late father Stan Coster has proven to be hugely popular and scored two other finalists positions for Tracy at the Mildura Awards. Phone ACMEC Records 0262 140909.

SELLOUT FOR JEFF BROWN
Jeffs new 15 track album " Mate, I'm Feelin' Lucky " sold like hotcakes at the Mildura Festival, with Jeff selling out all of his stock in a short time, and a new consignment had to be forwarded from his record company Regency Sound, for his Tasmanian tour which followed the Mildura Festival. Phone 0754114115

MILDURA 2004 AWARDS WINNERS
Melbourne duo Fisk & Cristian were the big winners at the 8th Australian Independent Country Music Awards – the Telstra Country Wide Southern Stars.
The duo (Donna Fisk and Michael Cristian) won Independent Album of the Year with Big Picture, and Independent Single of the Year with their smash radio hit from earlier this year, Under The Influence Of Love.
In addition, they were also named Independent Artist of the Year – an award which is determined by a separate panel and judged on the artist’s full range of activities during the year including recording, performing, promotion and profile.
Other winners at this year’s awards included Tracy Coster, whose Old Bush Barbeque song won Heritage Track of the Year, and Felicity Urquhart, who celebrated her return to the independent recording ranks with her recent radio hit Turn Out The Light (winning her the Female Vocal category).
Queenslanders took home both Rising Star awards – Sunshine Coast singer/songwriter Michael Bryers won the Male section with his Slim Dusty tribute Million Words, and Townsville’s Carla Herrod took Rising Star Female with Out All Night.
Daniel Thompson, the deep-voiced singer/songwriter from the NSW Central Coast, scored his second Independent Award, winning the Male Vocal award with his remake of the classic (I’m Just A) Country Boy. Daniel previously won Rising Star Male in 2001.
The Barry Thornton Memorial Service Award was presented to Ray Smith, a volunteer for the Mildura Festival since it started. Ray has assisted in the Mildura City Mall setting up each day and cheerfully doing anything asked of him. He is a member of the Sunraysia Country Music Club and a past President and is also a volunteer who assists in most events that happen in Mildura.
The awards are held annually as a climax to the huge Mildura Country Music Festival.


WIDGEE BALLADEERS MUSTER
The first Widgee Balladeers Muster was held at Widgee Rodeo Grounds on October 8th, 9th and 10th and proved to be a wonderful success with over 500 people passing through the gate.
Saturday was a great night of entertainment with a bit of the past relived when the Webb Bros. took the stage. They were the ones who started the Gympie Muster at their property "Thornside" back in 1982. Other popular artists on the show were; Matt Manning (A.B.B.A. Bush Balladeer Star Quest winner 2004), Dean Perrett, Anita Ree, and Laura Downing to name but a few. This will be an annual event so watch for the date for next year.

GRAHAM RODGER RECORDING AGAIN
It was great to hear that Graham Rodger is recording once again after his long stint out at Barcaldine during the winter months. Graham enjoyed his time out there, entertaining full crowds every night and selling his latest CD 'A Gypsy's Life' as fast as he could get them out of his case. This album has been hugely successful for Graham earning him a nomination in the Australian Independent Country Music Awards and seeing him enter the Country Top 30 with a track off this album 'It's All In The Game'. This song is still sitting at 25 and receiving a great amount of airplay. The album currently in production is another 12 tracks of true Aussie country songs penned by Graham and again the quality of his songwriting skill is unmistakable. Hopefully we will hear it plenty of times in Tamworth where he is planning to launch his new release at the Regency Sound Showcase held at the Frog & Toad Convention Centre.

MATT MANNING ALBUM OUT NOW!
Matt Manning has just released his new album .. "New Wave Balladeer"... the album was recorded at Lindsay Waddington's Kross Kut Studios. The album also includes Matt's A.B.B.A. Star Quest winners track.." You Got To Go west Young Fella".


A.B.B.A. - INDUSTRY AWARD finalists!!!
The Australian Bush Balladeers Association Inc was a finalist in the Industry Achiever category of the Australian Country Music Awards 2004!   Kate Nugent took out the award at t a gala presentation function in Sydney at the Canterbury-Hurlstone Park RSL Club on Monday, September 13th. The A.B.B.A. were very proud to be finalists and we thank our secretary Lorraine Pfitzner for nominating the Association.

If anyone out there has any bush ballad festivals/events/or news items please email me so we can help publicise it for you.

Contact us - info@bushballadeers.com.au To have your bush ballad/event listed on this page.
 If you are a A.B.B.A. member you can send Tour Dates/ to info@bushballadeers.com.au (include current membership number)