Buddy Knox Talent Quest

15/06/2026

Could you help launch the next generation of Aboriginal music talent?

Following the success of the inaugural Buddy Knox Talent Quest at the 2026 Tamworth Country Music Festival, we're seeking a major sponsor or partner to help grow this exciting event into the future.

The Talent Contest provides a unique, professional stage for emerging Aboriginal musicians, creates pathways into the music industry, and builds confidence, cultural pride and community connection. In its first year, the event attracted strong crowds, extensive media coverage and more than 100K social media views.

Led by respected local musician Buddy Knox, who has spent decades mentoring young performers, the Contest is already making a real difference. With the right partnership, we can expand the program, create more opportunities for young artists and elevate the event's profile within the Festival.

If your organisation is interested in supporting Aboriginal talent, youth development and cultural leadership, we'd love to talk.

Inbox the page for a copy of the sponsorship prospectus or to have a chat about partnership opportunities for 2027 and beyond.

08/06/2026

Hey, Talent Seekers! 🌟
Are you ready to shine? Join our mailing list NOW and be the FIRST to get all the exciting details on the
BUDDY KNOX TALENT QUEST!

Stay in the loop for updates, exclusive invites, and thrilling surprises!
Don’t miss out on your chance to unleash your talent and be a part of something amazing!

👉 Click the link to sign up!
http://eepurl.com/GZ5_XvXGIr

12/05/2026

Our incredible Under 18’s talent quest winner, Nahri Slater-Saunders, brought the house down with her stunning voice last week, with on guitar.

Uncle Buddy isn’t just a talented musician; He is a pillar of support for our youth, always encouraging them to chase their dreams.

06/05/2026

Meet Fiona, our secret weapon and our Project Manager! 💪

Fiona has always had a keen interest in music. She learned the piano, clarinet, accordion and bass guitar.
 “ I never mastered any of them, but it was fun” she says, with a laugh.  Playing at school band, a girls jazz group, clarinet choir, a country duo and Buddy’s Blues band, has all been a good experience into the music scenes.
Fiona’s big talent shines in managing Buddy’s music career since 2005, successfully helping him to transition to becoming an independent Artist, after years of guitar slaying. 

26/04/2026

Meet our next team member, Aimee! Our Project Coordinator & Media Manager / Vocal Coach & Mentor

Aimee Hannan a proud Gamilaraay woman from regional New South Wales, is a standout voice in contemporary country music. Blending authentic country roots with a modern country-pop vibe, her music is formed from personal truth and lived experiences. She first gained national attention as a Top 12 finalist on The Voice Australia under Delta Goodrem’s mentorship, showcasing her powerful and emotive vocals.

Aimee’s story is inspirational; after a rare medical condition led to the amputation of her leg, she returned to the stage with renewed strength and purpose, reshaping perceptions of resilience in the industry. Collaborating with notable Australian artists including Lyn Bowtell, Ella Hooper and Sheppard, her influence across genres is expanding.

In 2024, she was featured in the Headliners and participated in the Mundi Mundi Bash, highlighting musicians with disabilities and affirming her role as a voice for representation. With a focus on heartfelt storytelling and contemporary production, Aimee explores themes of resilience, identity, and empowerment in her music. On stage, she captivates audiences with raw and unforgettable performances; as she anticipates new music, Aimee steps into her next chapter with clarity and conviction.

WINANGA - LI DHUWI

23/04/2026

Over the next few days we will introduce you to some of the team behind the scenes.
First up, the heart of the talent quest - Buddy Knox.

Buddy Knox

He is a respected Tamworth-based professional musician, and touring Artist, with a Blues belt that is notched with all the big ticket Australian festivals. Buddy is a long-standing leader within the local Gamilaraay music community. He has consistently invested his time and expertise into mentoring young performers. Buddy’s work in supporting emerging artists through rehearsals, performance preparation and ongoing encouragement across school events, HSC performances, civic occasions and cultural events earned him the Tamworth Regional Council Volunteer of the Year Award in 2018. Buddy has been actively involved in the Aboriginal Cultural Showcase since its inception in 2007, working as a founding member, talent mentor and house band MD. This depth of experience and commitment ensures the newly created Buddy Knox Talent Contest is a sustained and trusted pathway for youth development. Buddy’s leadership brings credibility, cultural integrity and strong community relationships to the program.
says Buddy “ Life without music would be a mistake”

22/04/2026

🌟✨Exciting News!✨🌟

Our extremely talented Aimee Hannan, a long time student of Uncle Buddy Knox and a Judge from the very first Buddy Knox Talent Quest, is about to release her new song, "Count On Me"! 🎶💖

We're thrilled to share the presave link with you all! 🎉
Dive into her soulful melodies and be a part of her musical journey!

👉 https://ditto.fm/count-on-me-aimee-hannan 👈

Let's show Aimee our love and support! 💪❤️ Together, we can help her reach new heights!

Listen to Count on Me

19/04/2026

🎤✨ What a fantastic showcase of talent we witnessed back in January! 🎉

As we gear up for the 2027 Buddy Knox Talent Quest, let’s take a moment to celebrate our talented winners from the inaugural contest! 🥳

UNDER 15s
🥇 1st: Mallory Hanna
🥈 2nd: Budjirriwan
🥉 3rd: Elizabeth Toomey

15-18 YEARS
🥇 1st: Nahri Slater-Saunders
🥈 2nd: Jillari Faulkner
🥉 3rd: Ailah Waters

OPEN CATEGORY
🥇 1st: Bradley Hall Band
🥈 2nd: Sunny Luwe
🥉 3rd: Djaarmby Band

⭐️ Special Awards:
💫 Encouragement Award: Nahri Slater-Saunders
🌟 Mentorships: Ailah Waters, Elizabeth Toomey, and Nahri Slater-Saunders
🏆 Donovan Family Encouragement Award: Jarrod Mackie

✨ Are you ready to shine? Stay tuned to mark your calendars for 2027!
Join us and show off your incredible talent! Who knows? You might be our next winner!

17/04/2026

We’re thrilled to share that the Buddy Knox Talent Quest made its spectacular debut during the 2026 Tamworth Country Music Festival, and we’re already gearing up for an even bigger and better second edition in 2027! 🎶✨

🎤 Join us for another unforgettable celebration of talent, music, and community! Whether you’re a performer, music lover, or just someone who enjoys supporting local talents, there’s a place for you at our next event!

Stay tuned for all the important info but till then…

📣 Help us spread the word! Share this post, tag your friends, and let’s make this a fantastic event for all!

Stay tuned for more updates on auditions, performances, and all the excitement.

Let’s make some noise! 🎸🎉