Up and comers of Australia’s country music scene will be centre stage at the 50th Toyota Country Music Festival in January 2022, thanks to the new partnership with McDonald’s Australia.

The Golden Gig, sponsored by Macca’s is a new talent quest for youngsters, giving those 17 years and under a chance to perform and shine, providing the opportunity for emerging country music artists to display their talent and kick start their musical journey in Tamworth.

David McMullen, Market Director (NSW), McDonald’s Australia, said: “As the largest employer of young people in the country, we are committed to supporting the next generation and setting them up for future success.

“We are proud to be able to shine a spotlight on the musical talents of young country artists from across Australia.”

Toyota Country Music Festival Manager, Barry Harley said: “This new talent quest is all about fostering young talent in the industry and encouraging them to develop their skills and interest.”

“A love of music and singing often starts young. We have plenty of talented youngsters around and we want to provide a platform to launch their country music career.”

A dedicated Macca’s Stage will be set up in the Family Zone on Kable Avenue, with the Golden Gig Grand Final set to be held on Saturday, January 23 at 11am. 

There will be two categories of competition for the Golden Gig, sponsored by Macca’s. One will be dedicated to artists 12 years and under, while the other will be for the older kids, 13 to 17 years old.

There will also be thousands of dollars’ worth of prizes up for grabs, with the winners of each age category walking away with tools to help them further develop their musical skills.

Mr Harley said: “There are some phenomenal prizes up for grabs, with the winner of the 13 to 17 age group scoring a spot at the Country Music Association of Australia’s Junior Academy, which is valued at $3000.”

“Plus, the winners of each category will have the choice of taking home an electric-acoustic guitar, a digital piano, an interface or set of electronic drums, thanks to Yamaha.”

In addition to the Golden Gig sponsored by Macca’s, McDonald’s Australia will also showcase local farmers who supply to Macca’s, as well as local franchisees who continue to play a critical role in driving the success of the McDonald’s business.

Mr McMullen said: “We are proud to partner with Tamworth Regional Council to support home- grown music talent and showcase our incredible Aussie suppliers and farmers.

“Every year McDonald’s invests approximately one billion dollars into purchasing locally-sourced, quality ingredients from over 15,000 farmers from across the country.”

Entries are now open for the Golden Gig, sponsored by Maccas, and those wishing to take part can enter by clicking here.