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JOHN WILLIAMSON SIGNS TO WARNER MUSIC AUSTRALIA
WMA's Managing Director Tony Harlow is very pleased to announce the signing - "John Williamson is a great person, a great artist and a great Australian. And he has a great new record, chock full of new stories and beautifully sung. The team behind him are full of ideas and not ready to rest on his (already considerable) laurels. What more could you ask for in renewing an old friendship, and bringing a legendary artist to a new home busting to work with him". With iconic Australian songs such as 'True Blue', 'Cootamundra Wattle', 'Salisbury Street, 'Galleries of Pink Galah's', 'Raining On The Rock' and 'Rip Rip Woodchip' to his name, Williamson the prolific singer song writer is one of Australia's greatest musicians and is considered a legend within the industry. An ARIA Hall Of Fame member, Williamson has sold more than 4 million albums in Australia alone, won three ARIA awards, four APRA awards, as well as a staggering 24 Golden Guitar Awards, with plenty more to come!
It's great to join with Warner Music who share the same passion for the material and I'm looking forward to what we can achieve together".
Look out! 'The Big Red' is on its way. Williamson's 48th album will be released by WMA on 27th January to coincide with his performance at this year's Tamworth Country Music Festival.
Road Report (No.16)Rather than calling this an 'on the road' update it's more like an 'in the air' update. John often says that travelling around this great country of ours is a privilege and that each tour he sees as a 'working holiday'. As John and Meg were off to Japan early the next morning following the wonderful Grafton Saraton Theatre concert in September, there was no chance to hang around and enjoy the scenery on that occasion! Japan was the first non-working holiday in more than four years and the result of a Variety charity auction nearly twelve months ago. So, in the past five weeks, there's been a lot of flying. First to Japan and back and then, a week later in early October, John and Meg headed to Washington DC and New York for a performance for the Australian Embassy and the Department of Defence in DC. What a night that was. A glamorous black tie dinner with about 40% Aussies and 60% Americans from the highest places! John not only made a lot of Aussies very homesick that night (and proud) but wooed the Americans with explanations of his lyrics and his stunning solo performance of his most Australian songs, taking them on a visual journey from one corner of the continent to the other.
With Aussies from the function, they headed for an Irish pub downtown to see the Wallabies play the Springboks. You can imagine what that was like . . . an Irish pub in Washington DC packed with South Africans, Aussies and anyone else who was passionate about the Rugby World Cup and who just had to see the game. To top off a great night, the Wallabies won. Back to the hotel at 3am and with a 5am pickup for the flight to New York, plus coping with a bit of jetlag . . . a busy schedule!
Road Report (No.15) It's been quite a few years since John performed at Grafton but, the brilliant conversion of its wonderful old theatre to make it suitable for live shows, made this possible in September. It was fantastic to see so many enthusiastic fans turn out to not only support John but also this new local facility. Forster and Port Macquarie were a great success with the new songs from the upcoming album getting rave reviews from those hearing them for the first time.
This past week has been much about the NRL. Some months ago John was approached by the Men of League Foundation. The foundation's charter is 'to assist those from all levels of the Rugby League family who, for some reason, have fallen on hard times'. John met with Bob Bennett (brother of legendary coach Wayne Bennett) and Graeme Hughes to discuss the possibility of him writing an 'anthem' for them. Who better to do this than John? He wrote the anthem, they loved it and with the generous support of Sony Music and their studio and staff, the song was recorded with a 'choir' of former great League players including Greg Alexander, Frank Puletua, Bill Harrigan, Wayne Pearce, Phil Sigsworth, John Raper, Noel Kelly, Benny Elias, Neil Pringle, Eric Grothe Snr and Velu Nuumaalii.  John with Wayne and Bob Bennett at the Men of League Dinner.  At the Men of League dinner on Tuesday 27th September, the 'Men of League' song was launched and featured in the news on several TV channels. It seems to have attracted almost as much media attention as the grand final itself! John and Col performed it again on the Channel 9's The Footy Show on Thursday night and also at the Grand Final on Sunday afternoon. 'Men of League' was made available for download only for a limited seven (7) day period from 9am Grand Final day, Sunday 2nd October.
Pictured left: John and Hugh Jackman caught up backstage for a chat and a photo before appearing on Channel 9's The Footy Show.
In the coming week, John heads to Washington DC at the special request of the Australian Ambassador to the United States, Kim Beazley, to perform at a major diplomatic function. More about that on his return.
Our new office is nearly sorted so, in the lead up to Christmas, keep an eye out for some special bundling of merchandise that might make great Christmas gifts!
News From Meg Like everyone around the country we've been devastated by the ABC chopper crash. John knew Paul Lockyer well and Gary Ticehurst has been a friend of mine for many years as he was the 'Variety Bash chopper'. I saw him not long ago and he told me that he wasn't able to do the Bash this year because of this Lake Eyre trip. He was the best in the country, I'm sure. I had the enormous privilege of flying around the Gulf of Carpentaria in the chopper on a Bash about seven years ago . . . something I'll never forget.
Road Report (No.14)
The only gig between now and the end of this month is the fabulous Gympie Music Muster. John will be on stage just before the sun goes down on Sunday 28th August, so that the families can stay around and enjoy his performance. John and Meg were terribly disappointed to have to pull out of the 2011 NSW Variety Bash at short notice due to unforeseen circumstances. The Holden ute was all ready to go and John had spent the weeks leading up to the Bash doing endless interviews to promote the event. They're certainly there in spirit and are getting plenty of updates from Bashers along the way who know how disappointed they are. They're definitely planning on being there in 2012. The past few weeks have seen the crew travel to Perth for the concert with the Australian Army Band, to the centre of Australia for a corporate gig at Uluru, to Canberra for a sensational show there and are now just back from Hobart and the concert with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. Fans travelled from as far as Melbourne and New Zealand to catch John in Hobart.
Pictured left: John with the orchestra shows' promoter Marius Els at Hobart.
 Road Report (No.13)
On the road again . . .  July will also be the last of the '99 on York' shows for a while too. Not because John doesn't want to do more . . . he does. He absolutely loves the intimate atmosphere and often throws in songs that he hasn't performed for a long time . . . quite out of the blue. And it doesn't phase Col at all. John also has Dave Ellis on stage with his big double bass. Dave has played on some of John's biggest studio albums including 'Mallee Boy'. We're fighting to get the venue to give us more dates, but July 21st could be the last for a while, so don't miss it. 
Don't forget to vote on the Twinings website for John's tea, if you haven't already done so. It will be Variety that's the winner and the special needs kids, if he can get the most votes. Click on this link and it will take you straight there: www.twiningsaustralianblend.com.au
John has just finished a session in the recording studio in Tamworth, completing the new album which will be released in January 2012. He says it's his best one in a long time and can't wait to see it out! He also had a concert while he was there for 'Hat's Off' time. This weekend John and the crew head to WA for the concert with the Australian Army Band Perth and the following weekend are off to Uluru for a big corporate performance right at 'The Rock' itself! Maybe it will rain while we're there. There's never a dull moment. Until next time . . .
Road Report (No.12)  On the road again . . . Those of you who have been to a concert in the past eighteen months or so will have heard John talk about the documentary 'Song of the Outback'. Filmed over a three week period in May 2009 under the direction of a semi-retired BBC documentary maker Andrew Gosling, 'Song of the Outback' is a musical journey through the Centre. With John's songs, and John as the narrator, the doco links the history of the Outback from early settlers and their unsuccessful attempts to make a living out of unsuitable land around Wilpena Pound, to the early cameleers, the old Ghan railway, the opal miners at Coober Pedy, Albert Namatjira and his inspiration of the landscape around Hermannsburg and much more.
The World Premiere of 'Song of the Outback' can be seen on AUSTAR's Country Music Channel (CMC) on Monday 13th June at 7pm followed at 9pm by John live at 'CMC Rocks the Hunter'. The doco will be repeated on Tuesday 14th June at 9am and Sunday 19th at midday. Don't miss it! John will also feature on the cover of the Austar Magazine for June.
And now, John, Meg, Col and Mike (John's sound engineer) have just returned from Darwin having started their voyage in Alice Springs as part of The Ghan's special ANZAC event. John performed on ANZAC Hill at the Alice Springs service before boarding the train and heading for Katherine Gorge where another special performance took place.  Dining in the Queen Adelaide restaurant on the Ghan With a couple of great shows in Cessnock and Nelson Bay last weekend, John and the team head to Melbourne this week for two huge concerts with the Orchestra Victoria at The Palms, Crown Casino.
 A True Blue fan at Cessnock
New concert dates always being added to the website, so make sure you keep checking back to see where John will be next. To experience John and his music in the most intimate mode, you need to secure your tickets to one of John's upcoming '99 On York' concerts, which take place in the heart of Sydney's CBD. The great venue has already played host to several of John's shows and with the recent addition of Dave Ellis on double bass for these special concerts, you really have to simply experience it for yourself. So do yourself a favour, click on this TOUR DATES link and pick which Thursday night suits you best to come along and join in the fun. Road Report (No.11) With a few short days at Springbrook to recharge the batteries, Col Watson flew up to join John. They spent the time rehearsing before heading to Brisbane for the concert with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. This time under the leadership of maestro George Ellis, the audience was just as inspired and entertained as they had been at the Sydney Opera House at the end of last year. Once again they were taken on journeys and shared emotions from laughter to tears.
There was no time to bask in the success of the Brisbane night as early the next day John and the crew hit the road again heading for Toowoomba. Not only was Prince William an honoured guest at the Spirit of the Country Concert but John closed the outdoor show as the 'special surprise guest'. Incredibly, the concert was attended by more than 20,000 from Toowoomba and the flood ravaged Lockyer Valley. All artists gave of their time at no cost, so there was also no charge to the audience. Despite the rain the locals were not to be deterred, creating a 5km traffic jam before the concert, as people determinedly made their way to the showground.
From there we were Sydney bound for two sell-out concerts at The Cube at Campbelltown, including a live broadcast from the club with Ben Fordham on drive time Radio 2GB. Ben as always, was excited to have John on his show, being quite a fan. A great night was had by all on both nights.
With only a day to recover, John, Col and sound engineer Mike Chandler then headed west to Perth for a Radio 6PR radio promotion where ten lucky winners were treated to a lunch with some songs in an intimate venue. Don't forget the 99 on York shows in Sydney start up again this month. So if you're one of those sensible people who DON'T want to be on the roads this Easter, take advantage of the opportunity to come into the city and see John at this great, intimate venue. It's a lot of fun and John has a bit of a surprise up his sleeve for these shows. The other dates (all Thursdays) are 26th May, 23rd June, 21st July & 25th August. 
Straight after this, John and the crew are off to Alice Springs to board the Ghan to do some special things for Anzac Day including a concert in the magnificent setting of Katherine Gorge for those on the train. More on that in the next report from the road!
Road Report (No.10)
In January, John returned to Dural Country Club for his traditional 'warm up to Tamworth' concert and then on to Tamworth for the 2011 Country Music Festival. John headlined on the Maton Showcase concert (along with Col Watson, who also plays an Australian Maton guitar); caught up with old mates Phil and Tommy Emmanuel for a quick breakfast (the only time free!); accompanied Ford V8 Supercar driver Will Davison in a street parade and signing; and had the honour of presenting Jimmy Little with a Gold Guitar for his Lifetime Achievement at the Country Music Awards.
 Another regular event for January was John's performance at the Crocosseum at Australia Zoo on Australia Day. The day commenced at 4am, so that John could appear at Channel 9's 'Today' broadcast from Suncorp Stadium, in recognition of the volunteers and others affected by the Brisbane flood, where John's singing of 'True Blue' brought many tears from those in the audience. Pictured left:
From there it was a dash to the zoo for an early sound check before the gates opened. Always a great day; Bindi caught up with John and the crew after the show to say g'day (while young Bob searched for croc teeth that had fallen out in the Crocosseum pool during the croc show!)
  Wes, Meg, Bindy, Frank and Col at Australia Zoo
On 31st January, 'Big Brother' John Laws returned to radio with John as his special guest on his first day back in the Radio 2SM & Super Radio Network studio. Armed with a new 'Lawsie jingle' for his mate, it was performed live with all major TV stations present.
The first two weeks of February were spent in Tamworth. John was recording (pictured right) for the new album that will be released later this year. With all new songs, what an album it's going to be! Recent audiences will have heard a few of them.
Pictured left: Col, John and Steve Newton at the top of Mt Hotham
Pictured right: John keeping on the right side of the law with a fan at CMC Rocks the Hunter!
Road Report (No. 9) 
It's been quite a while since the last report and we have lots of stories to tell and pictures to publish...John and the crew finished off 2010 with a short tour of regional Queensland to some old favourites: the Moncrieff Theatre in Bundaberg, the beautiful Empire Theatre in Toowoomba and Twin Town Services Club in Tweed Heads. From there it was to Victoria for the Queenscliff Music Festival and then on to Perth for 'Live at The Quarry'. So much countryside to see along the way, all so wonderfully different!
The Quarry was a new venue for John and he had three sellout shows there. They were quite magical . . . so totally different in atmosphere to his Opera House concerts only a month earlier but John was at his best yet again. Simon Holland reviewed one of the concerts in Perth's Drum Magazine. Here's what he had to say: Before a short break for Christmas and only days after returning from Perth, John was back in Melbourne again as a guest on the ABC TV show 'Spicks 'N' Specks'. We'll let you know when it goes to air; sometime later this year.
The New Year kicked off for John and the crew with three shows at '99 on York' in Sydney. As well as locals, fans came to catch John's show in this intimate setting from as far as USA, Scotland and Germany. (These shows will continue throughout 2011 once a month on a Thursday night on 21st April, 26th May, 23rd June, 21st July and 25th August). The venue is only a couple of minutes walk from the Queen Victoria Building and Myer so come into the city, do some shopping or have dinner and then see the show! Parking is available or it's a short walk to either Town Hall or Wynyard station.
The day after the first of the '99 on York' concerts we set out off to Hobart for the 'Sounds on the Ground' festival where, once again, John was the headline act. It's been a few years since John's last visit to Hobart and the fans really went off! Not even the terrible storm the night before could dampen their enthusiasm! Hopefully there will be news of more touring in Tassie later this year . . .  Wendy Matthews with John in Hobart Wow, What a Week It Was!  It's been hard for all of us to keep up with the events of the past week, so from where John gets his energy is amazing. You may think that what's on the TOUR DATES is all that's happening, but rarely a day has gone by in his 40th year without an interview, a comment or something, not to mention the song writing.
On the night of Wednesday 27th October John was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame (Australian Recording Industry Association). Not only did Senator Bob Brown in fly from Canberra especially to induct John, but John received a standing ovation from the entire audience, not once, but twice! Surrounded by friends, long-serving staff, family, colleagues and peers, it was a night of celebration of a wonderful career and recognition of just how much John has carved a place in the hearts and spirit of Australians. Sara Storer paid tribute to John by singing 'Mallee Boy' and John, assisted by his mate and accomplished guitarist Col Watson performed both 'Raining on the Rock' and 'True Blue'.   Presented to John Williamson in recognition of 40 Years True Blue. This plaque is awarded in tribute to four decades of great stories and songs . . . and making Australia a better place. With respect and best wishes from all your mates at EMI Australia.
There's little time to rest between now and the next tour in Queensland about nine days away (guess where John might just grab a few days beforehand!) This is closely followed by the Queenscliff Music Festival in Victoria and three shows at The Quarry in Perth. Yes, a third show has just been announced for John at The Quarry . . . WA here he comes!
And of course, for all of you who've been asking, the CD/DVD of the Sydney Opera House show should be available around the middle of January 2011.
We've also had a number of requests to sell John's True Blue flag stickers, so these are now available on the STORE page, along with all the new commemorative T-shirts, stubby holders, posters, glasses and CDs etc.  You will need to hurry, as a sell-out is expected! The ARIA Hall of Fame Has A New Star!
Ooraminna Magic
We promised to share the Ooraminna experience with you, so here is the full report of a truly wondrous night.
  About a year ago John decided he wanted to do something to celebrate his 40 years, and he wanted it to be in the heart of the country, which has inspired so much of his music. On Saturday night, 4th September, there was an open air concert at the Memo Club in Alice and Sunday night was the intimate special night. For this, people came from near and far, from Germany, USA, Canada, WA, SA, VIC, NSW, TAS, QLD and a couple from Alice. Boarding the coach in Alice Springs, the group made the half hour trip on the wide red dirt road out to Ooraminna. As they emerged from the coach, they were greeted by John personally and welcomed with a drink. As the sun set on the ancient mountains behind, the group moved their chairs around the campfire and John started his first set of songs.     Road Report (No.8) What a month it's been! From Fiji to the Variety Bash, a slight detour to Gympie, back to Sydney to wash the dust off then to Alice Springs.
Pictured left: This lady from America couldn't believe her luck to hear John practising outside, while the bure was being cleaned, and get the chance to have a chat. NB: The report on the 2010 NSW Variety Bash has been moved to the NSW VARIETY BASH DIARIES section. Our next update will tell you about what will be remembered one of the highlights of the 40th year . . . the magic night under the stars at Ooraminna, near Alice Springs. Road Report (No.7) Another highlight to John's 40 Year celebration was the presentation in July of a Life Education GOLD HAROLD AWARD. John attended the ceremony in Sydney with Meg completely unaware he was a recipient of the award. The shock presentation again recognised John's professional achievements but also his support of Life Education.
Now, if you're a Wallabies fan (and we all should be!) and you're lucky enough to be at the Bledisloe Cup game on Saturday 11th September in Sydney then we need your support! John will not only be singing the National Anthem at that game, but also, by popular demand, will be leading the singing of 'Waltzing Matilda' on the ground, following the Haka! So start practising because he wants to hear your loudest voices to give our Wallabies the crowd support and encouragement that they deserve and we, as a nation, seem to have forgotten how to do.
We'll save Fiji for the next update but this photo will give you a taste of the fun we had!  Road Report (No.6) The 40th year has been such a busy one that there's hardly been time for road reports as such, but hopefully you've been catching the website updates which cover the major happenings for John.
July saw John and the crew head for South Australia and the beautiful Barossa Valley where he and Meg had a chance to lunch with Maggie Beer and her husband Colin. It was nonstop talking, some great food and a few cooking tips from Maggie as well! Pictured left: CEO of EMI Mark Poston toasts John and his amazing 40 year career at a special dinner.
What a week of celebrations!
 With Colin Beer, Meg and the amazing Maggie Beer...  Well this is it . . . the actual week John celebrates 40 Years! This Friday, the 4th June, is 40 Years since the release of John's first single 'Old Man Emu'. John will be touring in South Australia, so The Barossa, Port Pirie, Renmark and Mount Gambier will all be sharing in the celebrations. We've been alluding to some big events and whilst we can't give you all the news just yet, we can assure you it is only a short time away before we announce all details. These include major shows in a capital city at an iconic venue as well as John venturing into the centre of Australia for a special intimate concert for his most loyal and dedicated fans in early September. Stay tuned and keep checking back.
The other exciting news is John has written some great new songs of late. Whilst you'll have to wait a while before you hear them on a new album, if you catch a live show you will be one of the first to hear them, so be sure to check out the TOUR DATES page and book your tickets to a venue near you.  Next week, we'll have some special messages from some of John's well known friends to share with you. From all of John's team, we're wishing him, and his emu, a very happy and special 40 YEAR birthday.
 John cooked up a storm as a celebrity guest on Channel 10's 'Ready Steady Cook' a couple of weeks ago before heading to the hills for a short break prior to starting touring again. The program will go to air later this year, so we'll keep you posted when we know the date! Latest from the Road!
  
And before the show last Saturday, John took part in Record Store Day Australia at JB HI-FI Toowoomba, meeting fans and signing copies of their new 40th year CDs and DVDs. The day was an initiative to encourage people to purchase the 'real thing' rather than illegally copying music, which of course denies the artists the royalties payable to them and which is a huge issue for the music industry.
Col Watson - Back On The Road Col Watson, a legend amongst guitarists, had his first gig with country music when he was hired by Slim Dusty in the early 1970s. After fifteen years off the road, Col agreed to tour again with John on the '40 Years True Blue' Tour. Col is seen here with his newly acquired Maton small bodied guitar. He says the BG808 has given him a new lease of life because it's so easy to play and has its own great character already. Thanks to Linda, Neville and Mark at Maton for giving Col such a great deal.   John's favourite stage guitar is also a Maton with rosewood back and sides and a Brazilian spruce top.
Col's is all Australian wood; Australian black wood with a spruce top. A Special Word from John... June 4th, 1970 - "The first song I ever attempted to write was released on the Fable label. It was 'Old Man Emu'. I was out the back of the homestead in North West NSW when I first heard the recording. 2VM Moree received the single before I did.  I had the radio on a fence post when I got the thrill of my life. I sounded older than I imagined, but an amazing experience the first time. That month I picked up radio stations all over the place at night. I was blown away. The song was screaming to the top of the charts (up there with The Beatles!). No.1 for 5 weeks and I was still at home farming wheat. All I'd done was win 'New Faces' and then record the song (one of the prizes was a recording contract). So, of course, I headed back to Melbourne to record an album of originals which were all pretty dreadful. The first LP sold 2000 copies, so I was a 'one hit wonder' for about 10 years. In the meantime, I moved to Sydney where the clubs were more suitable to my folk style performance than the 'rock' venues of Melbourne. It took me those 10 years to begin to understand who I was and what to write about. Phil Matthews came into my life about that stage with lots of encouragement about my songwriting and I finally got back to being really Australian, that is, myself: writing about the things that inspire me. To put it briefly, songs about the truly unique character of our ancient country and how its vast variety of atmospheres mould the quintessential Aussie. Add to that my personal life and concerns and you have it. It's loosely called 'Country Music' but it's really 'music of our country' to separate it from the standard American genre.
Now I hear other young Aussie artists with their own accents and I know I have been on the right track. And the track has become a road; it's just the beginning.
It is fascinating to hear interpretations of my songs by others and I am very proud that my friends in the business have paid tribute. I am truly thankful."
A Wonderful Tribute A real highlight of the CMAA Awards night in late January was a special tribute paid to John for his significant contribution to the Australian country music industry. Narrated by 'big brother' John Laws, forty years of career highlights filled the stage screens. But more than this, the tribute recognised John's love of Australia and the many causes he has been passionate about and the impact he has made on so many Australians through his songs. We are delighted to announce that you are now able to view this video by clicking the play arrow below.
The 40th Anniversary Tribute was written and produced by Mark Jago.
In the last few weeks, the '40 Years True Blue' Tour has journeyed to Perth and several Victorian country towns. Almost everywhere it was a sellout and John enjoyed meeting and entertaining many of his most loyal fans.
  Col Watson makes his debut on stage with John... ...finale to the Victorian tour 2010
That Was The Week That Was What a week it was for John at the Tamworth Country Music Festival! Nothing could surpass the surprise presentation by Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia and her moving speech in recognition of John's forty years in the industry, but it didn't stop there. 
For John it was almost as much of an honour to present his old mate, Chad Morgan, with a Gold Guitar for his lifetime contribution to the country music industry in Australia. After fifty-eight years in the business, this was Chad's first Gold Guitar (pictured left).
    John will be heading to WA for the Perth Muster in a couple of weeks followed by a short tour in regional Victoria. Bendigo has been sold out for several weeks now and the others are not far behind. So don't be disappointed and leave it too late to get your tickets if you're in the area of Shepparton, Warrnambool and Horsham. John has some wonderful new songs as well as the favourites that just have to be sung. * All zoo photos are included courtesy of Australia Zoo and remain their copyright.
Governor-General of Australia salutes John Williamson's 40th Year On Thursday 21st January 2010 John Williamson was honoured in Tamworth by the Governor-General Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC for his 40 years in the entertainment industry. In the midst of the annual country music festival, the Governor General presented John with a special glass-etched award for his milestone year congratulating him on his achievement.  The function, held in the country music capital, saw John Williamson first presented with a Gold Record for his sales of 2008 album release 'Hillbilly Road' from EMI Chief Executive Officer, Mark Poston. Concluding this, the Governor General proceeded to continue the recognition through the presentation of the etched plaque in front of family, friends, colleagues and media.During his introduction, Mark Poston said "Everyone at EMI is proud to be associated with John Williamson. EMI is a music company built on an incredible lineage - from The Beatles to The Beach Boys to Coldplay and Slim Dusty - and all that's in between. John Williamson stands alongside those iconic artists as one of Australia's finest. Congratulations from us all John for another Gold record with 'Hillbilly Road' and looking forward to a big year ahead for your 40th anniversary year in the business".  Williamson, who was unaware of the Governor General's intended presence at the function, was grateful and humbled by the double presentation. "From the Mallee to Croppa Creek and all around our country, I have been inspired by the land, characters and stories before me. 'Hillbilly Road' was a personal album, one that flowed so easily from me and to have my fans enjoy it as much as I did is such a reward. Here now, 40 Years in the industry and to be recognised so publicly is an honour. I am grateful to all who have supported, worked with or stood beside me, thank you," said John Williamson after the presentation.  Meg Doyle - John's partner, John & the Governor- General
On Saturday 23rd January, John Williamson attended and was honoured with a special tribute performance at the 38th Country Music Awards of Australia (Golden Guitars) in Tamworth. 
Vision Australia's
John had a wonderful and fulfilling time performing at the 2009 'Carols by Candlelight'. Although the weather was by no means perfect, it did not deter thousands of people from attending the event, which was held at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne last Christmas Eve and televised nationally on the Nine Network.
 What a Night, What a Fight!
Danny Green recently made the first successful defence of his IBO cruiserweight world title at Sydney's Acer Arena. The champion Australian boxer defeated the legendary American superstar Roy Jones Jr. when the fight was stopped two minutes into the first round. Prior to the contest, John was there to perform the national anthem and sing some of his best known songs to the capacity 20,000 crowd and the worldwide television audience. It was to be a night to remember.
Road Report (No.5)Entering the last stretch, we headed to northern NSW with a first stop at Twin Towns, Tweed Heads not far from John's 'Hillbilly Road' Springbrook retreat.  
After eighteen months, the final 'Hillbilly Road' Tour gig was scheduled for the Swan Yacht Club, Perth on 6th December. It has all been an exciting experience and we thank everyone for their enthusiastic support along the road of song.
 
Road Report (No.4)
With a rare day off in Sydney, there was just enough time to film John talking about his new role as a 'Friend of Australia' for Tourism Australia. Then it was off to the Variety Melbourne Cup Lunch where John also spent time upstairs with the special needs children at their own lunch party put on by the dedicated 'Ladies of Variety'.
Next the crew headed for Victoria for three sellout shows at Bairnsdale, Warrigal and Wonthaggi to appreciative audiences. Old friends from Quambatook came up to say g'day to John after the show at Wonthaggi, as well as some dedicated fans from Sydney. The Sydney couple had never been to Wonthaggi but love the song, so why not visit and hear John sing the song (much to the delight of the locals as well) in the town that inspired it!
After the shows, it was back to Melbourne to meet up with the Gosling brothers for some more filming for the documentary, 'Song of the Outback' (click on ARCHIVE link to learn much more about this project). Leaving the extreme heat of Melbourne, John and Meg, Andrew and Alexander Gosling drove to Quambatook. In Quamby it was a scorching 40 degrees! It was a perfectly timed trip to the Mallee to film John's childhood town and catch the district buzzing with wheat harvesting in full swing. John also caught up with his cousins who are still wheat farmers there. Over the next few weeks the crew will cover seven shows in Queensland and northern NSW and then on to Perth before winding up a fantastic year on the road with some time off over Christmas. (please click on the TOUR DATES link for all ticketing details) November is a big birthday month for the Fair dinkum Road Co with John, Paul (on lighting), Meg, and Bev (in the office) all Scorpios and having birthdays! Happy Birthday to all the Scorpios! In December keep an eye out for the new TV show on Channel 7 called 'No Leave! No Life'. December 5th is the one in which John surprises the dedicated nurse, Lauren, at the Prairie Hotel in Parachilna in the Flinders Ranges. And, on Christmas Eve, John will be singing at the televised 'Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight' at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne. Channel 9 is the one to watch then.
Road Report (No.3)John and the crew covered more than 1600km on the road for the Wangaratta, Wagga Wagga and Griffith tour. It was a great weekend, with sellout shows for the first two nights and a slightly smaller but enthusiastic Griffith crowd, who gave up their Sunday afternoon TV viewing of the big Bathurst car race.
With a weekend off following the trip, John and Meg took a bit of time out for the Variety Bash reunion . . . a great chance to catch up with Bash mates and share a few more of those car stories. The Bashers always look forward to seeing the Bash video, which will be using John's new song 'I'm a Basher' as part of the music backing. John was so inspired by the Bash again this year that within two weeks of getting back, he had written the new song, been to Tamworth and recorded it. And like the kids helped by Variety, it's special!
Hillbilly Road Report (No.2)The second weekend of the tour was a particularly full one. After the first night in Taree, it was an early start to get to Port Macquarie by 10am to visit the Koala Hospital. It was a chance for John to re-visit the hospital and see the extensions to the John Williamson Wing, catch up with Max and Jean Starr, the founders of the hospital, plus the many volunteers who work there. They were very proud to show off the new Koala Rescue Ambulance, which came out of fundraiser, 'The Gumboot Ball' which John attended as special guest, two years ago. Media from the local newspaper and TV were there to interview John as well as an interview for a National Geographic story. We were lucky that the visit coincided with the birthday of their oldest koala, aptly named 'Birthday Girl'. She was given a feast of the very best selection of swamp mahogany and peppermint gum, while John had a chance for some great up-close-and personal photos.
Hillbilly Road Report (No.1)John will be visiting many parts of Australia over the coming months and we have decided to include a report from the road from time to time. This will enable John, Meg and the crew to share some of their experiences as they look back on some exciting times on the tour. Here is the first report: After a couple of month's break from touring, John and the crew hit the road again to continue the 'Hillbilly Road' Tour. It was obvious his fans missed him and his music as they came from far and wide to see him. At the first two shows at Cessnock and Belmont, apart from those who lived in the area, there were fans who had travelled from Scotland and even Barcelona in Spain!
Long time fans and the first to buy John's 40th year vest at Belmont.
Better Than A Picture' - Number One for Three Weeks! The John Williamson video 'Better Than A Picture' remained at the top on the Country Music Channel (CMC) chart for a remarkable three weeks in a row. This is the chart where the fans have their say, as all positions are based on many viewer requests. It is the fourth successful single lifted from his 'Hillbilly Road' gold record album - the previous ones were 'Cydi', 'Hillbilly Road' and 'Australia Is Another Word For Free'. You can click on the following link to see the music clip, which was filmed at John's Springbrook, Queensland retreat. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFPTTCkEb4M Another Gold Record for John
We are proud to announce that John Williamson's 'Hillbilly Road' CD has achieved a Gold Award (A.R.I.A.). The album was released in August last year and features the hit singles 'Drink A Little Love', 'Hillbilly Road', 'Cydi', 'Australia Is Another Word For Free' and the current CMC Top 10 hit 'Better Than A Picture'. The result is a wonderful achievement for John who, in 2010, will be celebrating 40 years since the release of his debut single 'Old Man Emu'. Our thanks go to everyone who bought the CD. We hope that you continue to enjoy and recommend it to your friends
Sponsor John's True Blue Ute for the Variety Bash 2009 Keep those signatures coming in for Variety, folks. All you need to do is sign a postcard size piece of good quality paper with a thick black marker pen (family name or individual) and send it in to PO Box 399, Epping NSW 1710 along with a cheque for $100 made out to 'Variety the Children's Charity'. And your name will end up on the bonnet of my HQ Ute, which is currently being equipped for the NSW Variety Bash in August 2009. We need those signatures in before the end of July, so they can become a part of a huge decal. (Don't forget to give us a return address, so we can forward a receipt). So travel with us proudly on the bonnet of the best ute in Australia. Kind regards Johnno  Here's where your signature will go...  "Me with our Bash mate 'Mobile Workshop' official, John Haak, who's been building the ute for Meg and I" Song of the Outback John has just returned home after spending a couple of weeks filming the documentary Song of the Outback. Please refer to the following story for the general outline of the television special. But, in the meantime, we can report that John and his partner Meg had a wonderful (if sometimes very cold!) time visiting many remote Australian locations and meeting fascinating outback characters. Here are just some of the on-site photographs taken during filming:
Gum Leaf News - A Letter from John How y'goin' folks I'm just about to head off to Adelaide and then to the Flinders Ranges to start filming a documentary for the Gosling brothers. These two Englishmen will pitch 'Song of the Outback' to the BBC and American TV. It will include interesting black and white historical stories of the outback. We will head north from Wilpena Pound to Coober Pedy, Birdsville, Glen Helen, and Alice Springs. The producers have chosen my songs to link the doco together and include Coober Pedy, Lightning Ridge, Alice Springs, Sing You The Outback, Skinny Dingoes, Camel Boy, Old Man Emu, Galleries Of Pink Galahs, Thargomindah and This Ancient Land. I can't wait to get out there, as so much water has travelled down to Lake Ayre. I'm bound to write some new songs. 
Keep those signatures coming in for Variety, folks. All you need to do is sign a postcard size piece of good quality paper in a thick black marker pen (family name or individual) and send it in (to PO Box 399, Epping NSW 1710) along with a cheque for $100 made out to 'Variety the Children's Charity' and your name will end up on the bonnet of my HQ ute which is currently being equipped for the NSW Variety Bash in August. We need those signatures in before the end of July so they can all become a part of a huge decal. (Don't forget to give us a return address so we can forward a receipt.) This year will be harder on special needs kids that ever because of the economic downturn, so travel with us proudly on the bonnet of the best ute in Australia. Wait till you see it on the website (and in Tamworth in 2010).
Just a reminder too, folks. Meg and I are auctioning on eBay another 'Dinner, bed and breakfast' for one night for a couple at our mountain hideaway in the QLD hinterland for any night between June 25 to July 31, 2009 but excluding July 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13. It's for Variety as well. If you check the following story you will read how much fun Alan and Lyn had last year. They reckon they will bid again. They are a great couple! The bidding will run from 11th June 2009 on eBay.Kind regards Johnno Better Than A Picture - A Real Life Weekend With John Williamson Join John for a 'Hillbilly Road' getaway weekend with all proceeds going to Variety, the children's charity. Share a priceless experience with Australian music legend John Williamson and his partner, Meg, at John's private Springbrook retreat, including a night's accommodation, meals, fireside songs and great conversation. This once in a lifetime offer includes:
John has offered this unique opportunity to the highest bidder donating to Variety, the children's charity. Variety is dedicated to inspiring hope and enriching the lives of sick, disadvantaged and special needs children across Australia.
Terms and Conditions. By bidding for this item, you agree to the following terms and conditions.
A Letter from John on Variety Bash 2009 Dear Variety Supporter, I'm very grateful for your support for the idea of my fans supporting Variety and signing the new Bash ute. After talking to the sign writers, they have suggested the best way to do this is for you to simply write your signature on a plain white, good quality piece of paper, a standard postcard size, in a good thick black felt-tipped pen. All the signatures will be scanned and then organised on special sign writing decal to cover the bonnet of the ute. So please send your signature, along with a cheque made out to Variety the Children's Charity to my office at PO Box 399, Epping, NSW 1710. It's very important that you include your name and address, so that a receipt can be posted to you as your $100 donation is a tax deduction for you. Thanks again for you enthusiastic response to the idea. I feel great about my True Blue fans showing their support for Variety all over our ute. Kind regards John Variety Bash August 2009 John has a great idea for this year's Variety Bash: "I am currently preparing an HQ Holden ute for this year's Variety Bash in August. I've owned a lot of utes over the years, so it suits my image more than Meg's Humber! (although she's sad to see the old Humber go). It will celebrate my 40th year in showbiz ('Old Man Emu' was born on 4th June, 1970) and I'd love you all to be a part of it. So I've come up with this idea. 
Rather than go looking for sponsors for our Bash ute, it occurred to me that there are a lot of True Blues out there who would like to help. So I'm inviting you all to sign the ute for a $100 donation for the special needs kids of Variety. How? I'll send you a special blank sticker, you sign it or write a message on it, send it back with your donation and I'll stick it on the vehicle. (Because it is a donation to Variety, you'll be sent a receipt so you can claim it on your tax.)Although I am no 'bush hoon', the ute will certainly look the part. It will have the biggest bull bar you've ever seen and be the envy of my country mates. It will be registered 'Dinkum' which is what you are if you have your name on it. Let us know however you like; email, phone call, bush telegraph, mail . . . I'll send you the sticker to sign or put your family name on it, or whatever. I don't really mind what you put on it as long as it is returned with your $100 donation. I hope you respond to this idea. I'd rather have my mates' names on the car than a heap of corporate sponsors. What do y'reckon?" JW PS: By the way, I have a new fan mail address. It is 
John Williamson's Number One Single! The multi-award winning single from the 'Hillbilly Road' CD, 'Australia Is Another Word for Free' achieved yet another very welcome milestone. We are proud to announce that John Williamson's current single rose to No.1 on the CMC (Country Music Channel) chart in March/April 2009. John is thrilled and thanks all his many fans for their support of 'Australia Is Another Word For Free' which was recorded with his close friends Warren H. Williams and Amos Morris. Check out the entire video below...
The Story of True Blue First published in 1981, John Williamson's iconic ballad 'True Blue' is set to provide the perfect backdrop for a new arena spectacular at the 2009 Sydney Royal Easter Show in April. 'The Story of True Blue' will be the centrepiece of this year's Show.  It is a tale of courage, mateship and adventure, told through the travels of an Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog called Bluey. 'The Story of True Blue' will show nightly in the NAB Arena from 7:30pm. And for the first three nights (9th, 10th & 11th April), John Williamson will appear live to sing 'True Blue' together with other crowd favourites at the close of the production. It promises to be a fantastic experience for all.
The Victorian Bushfire Appeal John Williamson was honoured to join several famous performers including Lee Kernaghan, Angry Anderson and Colin Hay (Men At Work) for the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Concert at the Walker Reserve, Whittlesea on Thursday 12th February. The show was part of the Australia Unites telethon broadcast by the Nine Network that raised more than 21 million dollars for victims of Australia's worst natural disaster. Golden Guitars Galore! John Williamson won his 24th Golden Guitar at the 37th Country Music Awards of Australia held in Tamworth during the Australia Day weekend. His composition, 'Australia Is Another Word For Free', was awarded Bush Ballad of the Year. It is the third time John has won this particular category.  Awards Night photos courtesy of CMAA and John Elliott And to celebrate such a milestone event, a fourth single from his Hillbilly Road album was issued on Australia Day. 'Australia Is Another Word For Free' explores John's love for this land through the eyes of a truckie, a bushie and a West Aranda man and features vocal collaboration with Warren H Williams and Amos Morris. The song is set to continue the album's success of the past few months.
 "Sometimes I think many of us take for granted how lucky we are in Australia. We can drive for days and the only time we'll be stopped is at a fruit fly gate. We are able to voice an opinion without fear of retribution. And in my opinion, 'Australia is another word for free" Australia Is Another Word For Free won the National Award for Bush Ballad of the Year at the Victorian and National Country Music Awards on Friday 6th February 2009. As an exclusive for all visitors to this site, we are pleased to feature an excerpt from 'Australia Is Another Word For Free'. Please press the play button below to listen to a free audio sample.
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Warner Music Australia is pleased to announce that iconic Australian music legend, John Williamson, has signed with the label, a deal which will see Warner Music release Williamson's latest album 'The Big Red' on 27th January 2012.
Speaking of his new partnership with Warner Music Australia, Williamson said, "The Big Red is my first all original release in almost four years and I'm pleased that songs from the new album have pushed out other material from my show. For instance 'Prairie Hotel Parachilna' is the kind of song I know Aussies want to hear.
On the road again . . .
JOHN WILLIAMSON
After a brief escape to chill out and to also celebrate his birthday at a secret destination on one of Sydney's most beautiful waterways, it was back into it, with Meg and John both attending the Variety Melbourne Cup luncheon. A highlight of this is also to pop in to see the 'special kids' who have a Melbourne Cup lunch of their own with entertainment and party food! (Pictured right: John catches up with the kids and Fairy Sparkle)
It has been announced that John will be inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame on October 27th this year. How special is that! From all of us at Fair dinkum Road Co we congratulate you, Johnno. No-one deserves it more. 
At the beginning of August, John and Meg left the chilly winter weather for Hideaway Resort on the Coral Coast of Viti Levu, Fiji for the first Fijian Country Music Festival. A group of about 150 enthusiastic Aussies travelled there to spend the week being entertained at night with concerts from John, Felicity Urqhuart, Bill Chambers and others. The days were filled with opportunities to experience swimming, snorkelling over the reef, line dancing, curry cooking lessons, visiting the local village, shopping and loads more. It was a wonderful combination of relaxation and work. A highlight of the trip was visiting the local village on Sunday and attending their church service (which was entirely in Fijian!). But it was the wonderful singing of the Fijian people, which was so memorable. Hopefully Chris Watson from Travel World at Tamworth will do it again next year!
I've always felt that we should have taken Banjo Paterson's lead ('Waltzing Matilda') and created our own folk/country style. The trouble was and still is that Aussie success is so often gauged by our popularity in America. But I have never cared about that. I wanted to create something for the next generations of Aussie kids to grab hold of. It's music about Aussies for Aussies. And you know, after 40 years of being on the road those kids are starting to understand what I'm about and it makes them proud. That means more to me than any world fame ever could. I want them to be as proud of me and my songs, as American kids are of Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan. In other words, be proud of who they are: Aussies. How lucky we all are to live here. 
"Meg and I are passionate about helping Aussie kids, so we're doing this again to raise much needed funds for the special needs kids Variety supports. I'm looking forward to singing around the fire after cooking up a storm on the camp stove for you, so please bid up big and remember, every cent goes to the kids", John said.
No doubt John and Meg will regale you with stories of their participation in the annual Variety Bash, including the upcoming 25th anniversary Benelong to Broken Hill bash leaving the Sydney Opera House forecourt on August 16th.
Springbrook is an idyllic location and to quote one of John's songs from the 'Hillbilly Road' album "...don't expect too much, it's humble but it's warm, you won't find it in a 'home' magazine but ten million dollars wouldn't buy the peace or the best valley view you've ever seen".
John Williamson will present a concert on Saturday 4th April 2009 at Revesby Workers Club, Sydney with proceeds going directly to the Country Music Association of Australia (CMAA).
And a Good Night Was Had By All !
Hot Off the Press
News from the Tour
The 38th album for Williamson delivered a positive start with 'Hillbilly Road' debuting on the national A.R.I.A. Charts at number 17. The second week saw a massive jump to number 10 and now, in its third week of release sits comfortably in the number 6 spot.
ANZAC Day 2008
