Buskers and emerging talent will need to put their best foot forward in Tamworth in April, with thousands of dollars worth of cash and prizes up for grabs at the rescheduled Toyota Country Music Festival. 

Set to kick off 18 April, the Festival will provide significant opportunities for up and comers to take to the stage. 

Festival Manager, Barry Harley says the event is all about celebrating the artists and stars and fostering young talent in the industry. 

“From the Toyota Busking Championships to the Golden Gig, sponsored by Maccas, there are plenty of opportunities for up and comers to have their moment in the spotlight, no matter what their age or skill level. 

“These opportunities have the potential to lead to bigger and better things and I encourage any keen performer to take the leap and put yourself out there.” 

The Toyota Country Music Busking Championships will see the top ten performers battle it out at the Best of the Buskers concert in Toyota Park on Sunday, 24 April. 

The top three buskers will receive cash prizes, plus the opportunity to perform gigs at the 2023 Festival, while the People’s Choice winner will receive a Yamaha Guitar. 

Busking Coordinator, Kyle Kash says busking spots for the April event are filling quickly. 

“There are some amazing prizes up for grabs in April, plus the opportunity to perform in front of thousands at Toyota Park. 

“If you want to busk at the Festival in April, then please get your registrations in as soon as possible.” 

Buskers will also perform as part of the Toyota Tailgate sessions throughout the Festival, as well as FanZone and there will be a special buskers open mic night at the Courthouse Hotel on 19 April. 

“We’ll have secret judges out and about at this event, so I encourage all buskers to step up and get on stage,” said Mr Kash. 

The Golden Gig, Sponsored by Maccas, will be a chance for junior artists to shine. 

The competition will see performers across two categories; 13 to 17 years, and 12 years and under, with the winner of each taking home a Yamaha instrument of their choice, plus cash and a voucher from Capitol Music. 

Festival Manager, Barry Harley said: “This is the inaugural Golden Gig and we’ve already had registrations from right across the state.” 

“It’s the first time a competitive element of the Festival has been dedicated to our younger artists, and it’s fantastic to see some stars eager to get involved.” 

The overall major winner of the Golden Gig will also win a scholarship to the Country Music Association of Australia’s Junior Academy course, which is valued at $3,300. 

“This is a fantastic prize, where young artists will learn from some of the best in the industry,” said Mr Harley. 

“This scholarship can also be spring board into the music industry, for those wanting a career as an musician.” 

Click here to register for the Toyota Busking Championship
Click here to register for the Golden Gig, Sponsored by Maccas