As it turns out, Greater Shepparton has proven pretty enough, with Kasey Chambers to headline next year’s Goulburn Valley Country Festival.
And not just Chambers — Troy Cassar-Daley, The Wolfe Brothers, Travis Collins, Adam Harvey and a lengthy list of other country artists will descend on the Shepparton Showgrounds for the Sunday, April 1 event.
GVCF organiser Aidan McLaren said the acts were somewhat of a pipe dream when first forming the concept of the festival.
“The fact they are all playing in our second year is incredible for us,” he said.
“We’ve always wanted the event to showcase the best country music in Australia and also celebrate how diverse the country genres are.
“We feel that this year’s line-up is a great reflection of that.“
The festival is also hosting its first international act in Kaylee Bell, and with a nod to grass-roots country talent, GV artists will once again have the opportunity to jump on the same line-up as their idols in the festival’s Local Country Showcase.
Country veteran Adam Harvey said the line-up had the makings of a great day — a balance of old-golds and newcomers.
“I always say that if people can come out to events like this and forget about all their cares and their dramas and just let their hair down and have a bit of fun, have a sing-along, have a laugh — we're doing our job if we could do that,” he said.
The inaugural GVCF was deemed a success earlier this year on April 10, but Mr McLaren is ready to bring it back bigger and better — including the addition of a freestyle motocross showcase.
Plus, it wouldn’t be country without line-dancing, a wood-chopping competition and smokehouse barbecue on the agenda as well.
“We wanted to create an event that encompasses the entire country experience — from the music, the rides, to the food trucks, to the market stalls and experiences, and so much more,” Mr McLaren said.
“Of course, we love the music, but for lovers of country, there really will be something for everyone at Goulburn Valley Country Festival.”
The festival will be held at the Shepparton Showgrounds on Saturday, April 1. Tickets will go on sale on Tuesday, August 23 via Moshtix.
For more information, visit https://www.goulburnvalleycountrymusicfestival.com.au/