Country on Quay Returns With Australia's Biggest Country Music Stars
Published on 08 June 2023
We’re keeping it country at Rockhampton River Festival this July, bringing back the highly anticipated Country on Quay opening night concert showcasing Australia’s finest country music stars to complement the other cultural, food and music experiences across the festival.
Following its triumphant debut in 2022 with a successful opening night concert, Country on Quay returns to River Festival with a stellar line-up that promises to captivate audiences.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams is excited to announce two Australian singer-songwriter heavyweights will be headlining Country on Quay.
“Kicking off the festival on Friday, July 28, Tunuba Stage headlined by Andrew Swift and Amber Lawrence, Country on Quay will also showcase exceptional local up-and-coming country artists, Zac Cross Band and Brad Butcher;” Mayor Williams said.
“Andrew Swift and Amber Lawrence were crowned Country Music Association of Australia (CMAA) Golden Guitar Male and Female Artists of the Year 2023 and to have both musicians on our line-up is exceptional.”
Andrew Swift, with three ARIA #1 albums and three CMAA Golden Guitar awards under his belt, has made a name for himself as a lovable troubadour and a genuine sweetheart. His heartfelt storytelling and infectious melodies have earned him a loyal fanbase and numerous accolades throughout his career.
"I cannot wait to perform at the opening night of this year's Rockhampton River Festival. It'll be my first time experiencing the festival, but I absolutely love Rocky and its surrounding areas and have been eager to get back, it's just a bonus that I'll be there when the whole city comes to life," Mr Swift said.
Amber Lawrence, the multi-Golden Guitar winner and one of Australia's most celebrated and hardworking country artists, expressed her thrill at performing at Rockhampton River Festival.
“I’m thrilled to be performing at Rocky River Festival in July. I really love the Rockhampton Region, and have played there many times over many years - but it has been a few years since I’ve been in the area, so I’m excited to be coming back!” Ms Lawrence said.
Families are in for a treat on Saturday at midday, as Rockhampton River Festival presents a special 'Kids Gone Country' concert by the one and only Amber Lawrence. Packed with high energy, audience participation, and endless fun, this delightful show guarantees a memorable experience for the whole family.
Acting Executive Manager Advance Rockhampton Zac Garven said Rockhampton River Festival is a remarkable platform to showcase the vibrancy and spirit of our city through live music, unique market stalls, tantalizing food vendors, and fascinating art installations.
“We encourage locals to extend a warm invitation to friends and family, urging them to visit our region and immerse themselves not only in the magic of Country on Quay but also in the extraordinary performances across all festival stages,” Mr Garven said.
“We hope to see the community inundated with tourists and country music fans alike for Rockhampton River Festival 28-30 July.”
For more information and updates, visit the Rockhampton River Festival Facebook page at www.fb.com/rockyriverfestival