Boots, Bulls, And Backroads

Country Fest Queensland Saddles Up For A Massive Weekend In Bloomsbury

With cowboy boots dusted off and the sweet scent of fresh-cut grass in the air, Country Fest Queensland is set to roll back into Bloomsbury from June 27–28, promising two days of music, mateship and good old-fashioned country hospitality under the stars.

The paddocks are primed, the line-up’s locked in, and the buzz is building – from long-time fans to curious first-timers, there’s plenty to be excited about.

Among them is Mackay local Bianca O’Connor, who scored VIP tickets online.

“We’re big fans of James Johnston,” said Bianca.

“They’re bringing country music to the northern region of Queensland and I think it’s great to support local and international artists… they’ve really given us an opportunity to see live music again.”

For headline act James Johnston, the event strikes a chord on a personal level.

“Country Fest Queensland is everything I love about country music,” he said.

“It’s out underneath the stars, there’s plenty of beer… there’s bucking bulls and great country music.”

Fresh off the back of chart-topping tracks like Raised Like That, Johnston’s grounded, storytelling style continues to resonate.

“My songs are stories from my upbringing or the life I’m living now,” he said.

“I just bought a little farm with my family, and I’ve got a bunch of new songs coming out about those stories.”

Now living in the Sunshine State, Johnston says returning to the Mackay region always feels special.

“Country music is born in regions like Mackay… I feel like I’m just part of the crowd.

“For so many years, I used to be out there watching events like this… now the fact that I get to be on that stage singing my songs, it always makes it really special.”

Behind the scenes, excitement is also running high.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said council is proud to support the event for a third year.

“This isn’t just a music festival – it’s a celebration of the region and a boost for our local economy,” he said.

“We’re expecting more than 4,000 people, and with weather like this, you never know… they might just stay for a while!”

Festival Director Regan Anderson said the program encourages campers to arrive early and soak up the atmosphere.

“It’s got a real honky tonk feel to it,” he said.

“We’ve got people coming from across the country – and even New Zealand. The line-up’s phenomenal, and the PBR bull riding will be absolutely world-class.”

From Max McNown to Randy Houser, the stage is stacked and the vibes are strong.

“It’s gonna be a hell of a night,” Johnston said.

“I’m just excited to see everyone out there.”

Tickets are selling fast…so dust off your boots, round up your crew, and get set for a weekend of live music, open skies and pure country magic!

Get your tickets now at www.countryfest.com.au

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Country Fest Queensland returns to Bloomsbury on June 27–28, promising two days of unforgettable country music, mateship, and down-to-earth hospitality, featuring headline act James Johnston and a lineup sure to bring the region alive under open skies. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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