Two prominent figures associated with the Tamworth Country Music Festival, artist John Williamson and coordinator Barry Harley OAM, are concluding their long-standing involvements with the event. Williamson is scheduled to perform for the final time at the festival in 2026, marking nearly 54 years of participation, while Harley is stepping down from his coordinator role after 54 years of involvement, transitioning to an advisory capacity.
John Williamson's Festival Farewell
Australian country music artist John Williamson will conclude his performances at the Tamworth Country Music Festival in 2026. This final appearance will mark nearly 54 years of his association with the event. Williamson's career in the music industry spans 56 years.
"He cited fatigue from travel and a desire to spend more time with family as reasons for stepping back from extensive touring."
Williamson intends to continue writing and recording music, with potential for occasional local performances.
His early memories of the Tamworth festival include a rugby injury and witnessing the presence of early artists such as Slim Dusty and Buddy Williams at the festival's inception. Williamson was also a co-founder of the Country Music Association of Australia.
He stated his intention to conclude his festival appearances while still delivering strong performances and acknowledged Tamworth's contribution to Australian music. Williamson also encouraged emerging artists to focus on Australian stories to maintain the genre's Australian identity.
Barry Harley Transitions from Coordinator Role
Barry Harley OAM is concluding his role as coordinator for the Tamworth Country Music Festival. He has been involved with the festival for 54 years, having initially joined in 1973. Harley was asked to assist in organizing the event while working on displays for Myer. At that time, his musical preferences included 1960s and 1970s rock.
Harley utilized his marketing expertise to assist local radio station 2TM, one of the festival's primary founders. He developed an appreciation for individuals within the country music industry, which led to his continued involvement. He assumed the coordinator position in 2015.
"The festival, which began in 1973 with limited attendance, has since expanded to become the largest country music event in the Southern Hemisphere. It now attracts over 300,000 visitors annually and features approximately 700 performers across 80 venues."
Harley cited the evolving nature of country music as a factor in the festival's sustained success and broadened appeal. He stated that the festival's current standing is the result of collective efforts from numerous individuals over decades.
Artists associated with the festival, including Max Jackson and Ashleigh Dallas, have acknowledged Harley's contributions. Jackson, appointed a festival ambassador in 2023, stated that support for artists at all levels had been provided. Dallas, a third-generation musician from Tamworth, noted his long-standing support for her family.
Harley plans to continue in an advisory capacity for future events. Joel Ulbricht will take on the manager position, having apprenticed during the most recent festival.
Festival Context
The Tamworth Country Music Festival, originating in 1973, has grown significantly over the decades. It stands as a major cultural event in Australia, drawing a large audience and supporting a broad range of country music artists.