THE BUSH is the original home of Australian country music, so for the second year running, Music in the Mulga will reclaim this genre’s sons and daughters for a fantastic country music festival.

David and Carmel Meurant, of Nardoo Station on the Matilda Highway just north of Cunnamulla, are the hosts for the event, which was held last year for the first time. The festival’s catchcry is, “We’re taking the country back to the bush,” and this authentic outback Queensland station is the perfect backdrop.

“Australian country music orig­inated in the bush and it’s fitting for it to be performed on its home turf,” Carmel said.

“Last year’s response was excellent so we are making it a regular event, falling around Mothers’ Day each year.”

Entertainment will be spread across five days from May 7 to 11. The main day of the festival will be Saturday, May 9, with an amazing musical line-up including Nicki Gillis, Nellie Donovan, Col Finley and Southern Style, Tall Timbre, Adam Kilpatrick, Kellie Cain and Amos Morris. But that’s not all. A barbecue and bar will operate all day, and in the grand tradition of those bush B&S balls, a recovery breakfast will be available the next morning for those who have camped overnight.

For people wanting to stay for the entire five days, campers and caravanners are welcome. Entertainment will include daily walk-up concerts organised by Sidey and Annie-Ree. The Irish Trio - Paddy and Glori O’Brien (Just the Two of Us) will perform on Thursday night and on Sunday morning.

About the performers:
Nicki Gillis, winner of the 2007 Coopers Golden Saddle Award and also the Open Album and Independent Female Vocalist of the Year at the Horsham Country Music Awards, has a popular album, “Lucy’s Daughter.”

Col Finley, an award-winning songwriter and artist who has performed extensively in Australia and the USA, has released a number of albums. His latest is out this year.

Nellie Donovan’s amazing voice is showcased in “Steppin’ Out.”

Singer-songwriter-musician Amos Morris has two albums and a number of awards under his belt, including his second Golden Guitar won at Tamworth in January this year.

Tall Timbre is a group with a belief in “good solid music” and has produced an album, “After the Grind.”

Adam Kilpatrick has performed at such events as the Tamworth Country Music Festival and the Gympie Muster. He has an album, “The Big Man.”

Kellie Cain has an album of her own compositions, “Girl with a Suitcase.”