Australia’s youngest emerging country music talent will take the stage in January for The Golden Gig, sponsored by Macca’s, during the Toyota 54th Tamworth Country Music Festival. The notable talent quest provides a platform for young artists to showcase their talent and gain valuable skills in performing to a large crowd.
Open to children aged 17 and under across two age categories; 12 years and under, and 13-17 years – The Golden Gig attracts singers from across Australia and abroad, with a chance to win monetary prizes and invaluable mentoring sessions with industry professionals.
In 2025, more than 90 children took part in the talent quest, with winners hailing from across New South Wales, Queensland and New Zealand.
10-year-old Georgia Stafford from Sunshine Beach, QLD was awarded runner up in the 12 years and under category.
Georgia says she loves singing and busking because she gets to tell stories and make people smile.
“I can’t wait to see the other kids my age get up and have a go at The Golden Gig. There aren’t many stages for young people to perform on, and Tamworth is so encouraging,” said Georgia.
“The Golden Gig judges are really kind and the organisers make it so much fun. Applying was easy, and I had a lot of fun off-stage with the other contestants.”
While Belle Norman from Lake Macquarie, NSW placed 3rd out of a large pool. She entered her first Golden Gig when she was 8 years old.
“I keep entering every year because I’ve made so many friends, I get to play on a big stage with the band and I feel like I’m part of something special.” Belle said.
Festival Manager Barry Harley says many young performers begin their professional music journey on The Golden Gig stage.
“The Tamworth Country Music Festival is dedicated to discovering and nurturing young country music talent.
“It’s inspiring to see young performers return for years beyond their participation in Golden Gig, moving through to other competitions like Toyota Best of the Buskers, or performing alongside established artists right across the festival.
“This partnership with McDonald’s Australia provides young artists with a platform to showcase their skills and gain valuable exposure.” Mr Harley said.
Six-time Golden Guitar Winner and Australian country artist Amber Lawrence is returning as the official Golden Gig ambassador and will mentor entrants throughout the competition.
Amber will also choose one winner to open her festival show at Tamworth Town Hall.
This year has been a landmark one for Amber Lawrence, marked by incredible growth, international recognition, and powerful new music. Fresh from headlining major festivals across Australia and Europe, Amber has expanded her global footprint with her first European headlining performance in Lithuania in August 2025.
“I’m thrilled to be back again as the Golden Gig ambassador, helping to inspire and guide the new generation of Aussie Country artists. It’s where I started my career in a talent quest on the streets of Tamworth, so it’s so great to be part of the journey,” 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.
“We’re incredibly proud to continue supporting The Golden Gig, which gives so many talented young performers the chance to step onto the stage with confidence and passion.” said Adrian Sippel, Licensee for McDonald’s restaurants in Tamworth.
“This event is more than a celebration of country music – it’s a launchpad for the next generation of artists and a meaningful way to foster creativity, community and lifelong memories for kids and their families. We can’t wait to welcome this new wave of talent to Tamworth in 2026.”
Applications for The Golden Gig are now open online at www.tcmf.com.au/maccas.
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