Amber Lawrence and Casey Barnes Set to Host the 54th Toyota Golden Guitar Awards in Tamworth Country Music Festival 2026

Published on December 25, 2025

The countdown is on for Australia’s most anticipated country music event of the year, the Toyota Golden Guitar Awards, set to take place on January 24, 2026. Held annually during the renowned Tamworth Country Music Festival, this event celebrates the very best in Australian country music, and the hosts for the 54th edition have now been revealed. Two of Australia’s most accomplished country artists, Amber Lawrence and Casey Barnes, will step into the spotlight to guide the evening’s proceedings at the nation’s longest-running music awards concert.

Amber Lawrence: A Country Music Powerhouse
Amber Lawrence, a six-time Golden Guitar winner, is one of the most recognized and hardworking figures in Australian country music. Known for her infectious energy and authenticity, Lawrence has become a household name in the country music scene. In 2023, she was crowned Female Artist of the Year at the Golden Guitar Awards and was inducted into the prestigious Galaxy of Stars in Tamworth.

Lawrence’s dedication to her craft is unparalleled. In 2024–2025, she released several new singles, embarked on an extensive national tour, and performed over 80 shows across Australia, sharing her music with fans from all corners of the country. She continues to inspire with her boundless work ethic and commitment to her fans.

“I can’t wait to host the Golden Guitars and celebrate our night of nights!” Lawrence exclaimed. “It’s such an honor to join Casey Barnes and be a part of a great evening for the artists, the industry, and the amazing fans.”

Casey Barnes: A Rising Star in Australian and Global Country Music
For Casey Barnes, hosting the Golden Guitar Awards will be another milestone in his already illustrious career. In 2025, Barnes won the Golden Guitar for Contemporary Country Album of the Year for his chart-topping album Mayday. Now, as he steps into the role of host, Barnes brings his signature charisma and passion for country music to the stage. His electrifying performances and ability to connect with audiences have made him one of the most in-demand country music performers in Australia.

Casey Barnes’ international acclaim is also growing. His performances at major events like the Stagecoach Festival, the largest country music festival in the world, and multiple appearances at CMA Fest in Nashville have helped cement his place on the global country music scene. With over 15 Country Radio number 1s and more than 90 million streams across his catalog, Barnes continues to break boundaries for Australian artists both at home and abroad.

“Being asked to host the Golden Guitar Awards is a huge honor,” Barnes said. “I’m incredibly proud and excited to be joining my great mate Amber Lawrence for a night that celebrates the heart, history, and future of Australian country music!”

Missy Lancaster and Adam McCann to Host the Golden Guitar Red Carpet
The festivities will begin with country artist Missy Lancaster and Tamworth’s Adam McCann hosting the Golden Guitar Awards Red Carpet. Lancaster, known for her ARIA Country chart-topping debut album, Golden Guitar and CMC Award nominations, and over 80 million streams, will bring her energy and star power to the red carpet.

In 2025, Lancaster took her new music on the road with Rachael Fahim during their national tour. She also has more singles and tours lined up for the future, continuing to captivate audiences both locally and internationally.

On the other hand, Adam McCann, a passionate advocate for live music and a key member of the Tamworth Country Music Festival Advisory Committee, will lend his expertise and enthusiasm to the event. McCann, who spent much of 2025 touring with Golden Guitar New Talent of The Year Lane Pittman, is no stranger to the country music scene. His involvement in both music and the local community makes him an ideal host for the Golden Guitar Red Carpet.

Tamworth Country Music Festival: A Major Event for Country Music Lovers
The Toyota Golden Guitar Awards, which will be held at the Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre in New South Wales, is a highlight of the annual Tamworth Country Music Festival. As the country music capital of Australia, Tamworth is the perfect venue for this prestigious event, attracting music lovers from all over the world.

In addition to the main awards ceremony, the festival features performances from top country artists, industry events, and opportunities for fans to connect with their favorite performers. The Tamworth Country Music Festival is a major cultural and tourism event, drawing thousands of visitors each year, contributing to the region’s economy, and showcasing Australia’s vibrant country music scene.

The Toyota Golden Guitar Awards will be livestreamed on the festival website and the Tamworth Country Music Festival Facebook page, allowing fans worldwide to watch the event from the comfort of their homes. Performers and presenters will be announced in early January, building anticipation for what promises to be a spectacular evening.

NSW Government Supports the Tamworth Country Music Festival
The Tamworth Country Music Festival and the Golden Guitar Awards are proudly supported by the NSW Government through Destination NSW, which promotes tourism and major events across the state. This partnership is vital in helping to grow the festival’s profile and reach, allowing more people to discover the rich history of Australian country music while also supporting the local economy.

Celebrating Excellence in Country Music
The Golden Guitar Awards have long been an essential part of the Australian country music scene, recognizing outstanding achievements in songwriting, performance, and production. The event not only honors established stars but also provides a platform for new talent, with categories recognizing the Golden Guitar New Talent of the Year and Song of the Year among others.

In addition to the awards ceremony, the Tamworth Country Music Festival serves as a celebration of the genre itself. It’s a unique event that brings together artists, fans, and industry professionals to celebrate country music’s rich history while looking toward its future. The festival is an unmissable experience for country music fans, whether they are attending the Golden Guitar Awards, enjoying live performances, or exploring the town’s many attractions.

Looking Forward to 2026 and Beyond
As the Toyota 54th Golden Guitar Awards approaches, there is much to look forward to in the coming years. With the continued growth of Australian country music and the festival’s expanding global reach, the Golden Guitar Awards will remain a crucial event in celebrating the industry’s achievements. Fans, artists, and tourists alike will continue to gather in Tamworth for years to come to honor the best of Australian country music.

The Golden Guitar Awards, now in its 54th year, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of country music in Australia and beyond. With the support of both the NSW Government and Destination NSW, the future of this iconic event looks bright as it continues to shine a spotlight on the immense talent within the country music scene.