Entertainment
The prestigious MLT New Zealand Gold Guitar Awards, held annually as part of Gore’s 10-day Tussock Country Music Festival, has crowned new champions in its Junior and Intermediate categories. The winners have displayed remarkable talent and promise, further solidifying New Zealand’s reputation as a hub for country music talent.
In a stunning first-year performance, Summer McKenzie of Invercargill took home the Junior Overall award with her moving Gospel Song, “Ten Thousand Angels Cried”. This significant achievement underscores the depth of talent and passion displayed by this young competitor.
“It was my first time at the awards and on the big stage, it was a great feeling, and I am very grateful to have won,” said McKenzie.
Following this, The Dolly’s, an Intermediate category group composed of three Southland girls – Maia Fletcher, Millie Cottam, and Tahla Ward, displayed their strong bond and musical acumen, winning the Overall Intermediate Section with a stunning version of Jenny Mitchell’s song “Troubadour”
“This song was special to us; it was the song that started our journey as a group a year ago” said Cottam, as she introduced the winning song on the night.
The success of our talented young winners does not end here. Summer McKenzie and The Dolly’s have been invited to represent New Zealand at the Tamworth Country Music Festival in Australia, the second biggest country music festival in the world.
The festival is a celebration of country music culture and heritage, attracting approximately 40,000 attendees each year and significant media coverage.
To support their journey to Australia, fundraising initiatives are underway. A Give a little page has been set up to help finance their trip. You can show your support by visiting the Give a Little site.