James will be
performing at The Bluewater Country Festival at Port Stephens on
the Long Weekend in June 2007
Shoal
Bay resort on Sunday 10th June at 7.30pm
Click here for more info
Carnamah Drought Buster
Tamworth on Tour Concert SUCCESS!!
The Shire of Carnamah (WA) is proud to announce that the
Carnamah Drought Buster Tamworth on Tour Concert was an
outstanding success with 638 tickets sold for the evening (the
township has a population of less than 1000).
Carnamah Shire CEO Tony Nottle said the event was well supported
by the Carnamah community as well as the Mid West. “It was amazing
to see not only our own residents of the Carnamah Shire enjoying
themselves, but also people from the surrounding communities in
Mid West.”
Country music artists James Blundell, Anne Kirkpatrick and
Felicity Urquhart put on a first-class show and supported the
Droughtbuster concept with open arms.
“James, Anne and Felicity really invigorated the crowd and helped
all of those affected by the drought to forget about their worries
for a while.” “Felicity even sang her song ”Big Black Cloud” and
hoped that it would bring some overdue rain for Carnamah” Mr.
Nottle stated.
The night proved to be a great success with the inclusion of local
bands MAD Q and the North Midlands Musical Society completing the
bill.
But more importantly all the profits made for the event will be
put towards the local volunteer and community groups.
“In times like these, even our sporting, volunteer and community
organizations are affected adversely by the dry season also.” Mr.
Nottle said. “It is hoped that the funds will see the continuation
of these worthwhile groups in our community.”
The Tamworth on Tour Organising Committee is even considering the
possibility of making the event an annual one.
“While it takes a lot of hard work and organization, there is no
disputing the fact that the benefits to our community encourage us
to consider it again.”
The Carnamah Droughtbuster Tamworth on Tour event was supported
through the Department of Agriculture’s Dry Season Assistance
Scheme.
James new single 'Higher Than
Heaven'
Blacktown RSL -Photo courtesy of
Alan Slade
Blacktown RSL April 2007 - James
Blundell and Karl Broadie Photo courtesy of
Alan Slade
James and his dad, who was in a
wheelchair because of an operation on his foot!
B;avktown RSL April 2007 -Photo courtesy
of Alan Slade
Photo courtesy of Therese
James on stage with
his father Peter in the wheelchair singing together.
Peter Blundell just got out of hospital
after having an operation on his foot, an injury which happened on
their farm about 35 years ago!!
Ring Around The Moon will be available from March 31, 2007 on Compass Bros
Records
Iconic Australian country artist James Blundell
returns to his country-rock roots with Ring Around The Moon, his first release
on Compass Bros Records.
Inspired by celestial phenomena, childhood memories, life lessons, homesickness
and love, Ring Around The Moon is the latest offering from an artist who
changed the landscape of Australian country music when he emerged in the late
80’s.
James was the first of a new breed of Australian country artists to find a
young audience and achieve gold and platinum sales. He absorbed the tradition
of the great storytellers of Australian country music and served it up in a way
that resonated with a broad audience … young and old, male and female, in the
country and the city … and paved the way for many of our contemporary country
artists.
Produced by Graham Thompson and written mostly by James, with contributions
from Don Walker and Johnny Cash, Ring Around The Moon is James at his very
best.
James Blundell and Karl Broadie at
Blacktown RSL -Karl was support act
for James Blundell.
Photo courtesy of Therese
James at the Fire Museum at Penrith with
Jetty Road
James at the Fire Museum at Penrith with Jetty Road
James at the
Fire Museum at Penrith with Jetty Road
James at the
Fire Museum at Penrith
Golden Guitars Winners Concert in March 23 2007. They
were selling James new album
'Ring Around The Moon' There was The
Wolverines, Beccy Cole, Carter & Carter, Gina Jeffreys,
Adam Brand, Adam Harvey and of course James Blundell.
Photo Courtesy of Therese
Bawden
'Knockin' On Heaven's Door - The
music of Bob Dylan concert at Sydney Olympic Park
on 23rd February 2007 -
Photo Courtesy of Therese
Bawden
Ring Around The Moon will be available from March 31, 2007 on Compass Bros
Records
-------------------
Neil Richards
Square One Entertainment
Office (AUST) +61 7 5548 6268
Postal PO Box 554 Jimboomba QLD Australia 4280
www.square1entertainment.com (coming soon)
The Rocks, Circular Quay on
Australia Day
James as MC in the Apra
Songwriters' Workshop.
Travis Collins , Felicity
Urquhart,
A Double Dose of Blundell at Tamworth
Award winning singer-songwriter James Blundell will be performing two
very different shows at the Tamworth Country Music Festival in 2007.
On Wednesday January 24th Peter & James Blundell present ‘The Silver Tongued
Devil & I: A Night of Music and Verse’ at the Cattleman’s Restaurant in the
Alandale Motor Inn.
Together they will explore the mystery of life on the land with a romantic yet
sometimes cynical view that can only be obtained by farming families.
Peter Blundell, who still presides over the family’s farm in Stanthorpe, is the
father of Golden Guitar Winner James Blundell and will be presenting his
eloquent bush prose for the very first time.
“I love the English language, and putting words together gives me great
pleasure,” he says. “These poems are a record of my life in the bush, written
for my family, and their generations to come … they are also a reflection of my
philosophy on that life.”
“I've watched the old mans writing develop over the last decade to where I
believe he is writing some of the best bush prose around,” says James. “He's
apt to hide his light under a bushel, so it's taken a lot of talking to get him
to this point ... however, now that he's agreed to perform, I think he'll take
to it like a duck to water.”
Both father and son are excited about the prospect of performing together for
the first time in Tamworth.
“What can one say about the opportunity to share the stage with my son,” says
Peter. “I find the prospect exciting, if somewhat daunting!”
“To have the opportunity to appear with one's father is a delight on so many
fronts,” says James. “I've always loved exposing an unknown artist’s work to
the public and I think anyone who attends will agree with me at the end of the
evening, that Peter Warren Blundell has an affinity with the bush and its
romance second to none. I'm personally looking forward to this performance more
than anything I can remember in recent years so come along, have a drink and a
chuckle … he and I both apologise in advance for any hangovers we had a hand
in!”
James’ acoustic set for this special one off show will be completely unique and
will feature material such as ‘Handshake Deal’, ‘Cloncurry Cattle Song’, ‘I
Don’t Fight Anymore’, ‘Kimberley Moon’ and many others seldom heard in his
regular live performances. Of course there’ll be a few classics from the pair’s
favourite writers thrown in for good measure!
Opening the show is popular Tamworth performer Royden Donohue who has been the
recipient of a number of awards including 2005 TIARA Male vocalist of the year
and 2005 Independent Country Music Awards Rising Star Male. Tickets available
from the Alandale on (02) 6765 7922 or
www.laingtix.oztix.com.au
The very next night on Thursday 24th January James Blundell will be in full
band mode in the West Diggers Showroom from 7pm.
This show will give fans the opportunity to hear songs from his forthcoming
album, including the brand new single ‘Higher Than Heaven’, along with all the
songs that have made him one of country music’s most successful and popular
performers.
On the night James will be backed by the musical and vocal talents of Jetty
Road who will also be playing a few songs from their new album ‘Dirt Road City
Lights’. Support acts are 2007 Golden Guitar Best New Talent nominee Nik
Phillips who will be performing music from his critically acclaimed album
‘Songs From The Fourth Floor’ (including the CMC Favourites ‘Not In This Life’
and ‘No One Is To Blame’) and Central Coast singer-songwriter Lianne Rose who
is attracting plenty of attention with the video ‘Be Careful’ taken from the
forthcoming album ‘Soak Up the World’.
Tickets available from Wests Diggers on (02) 6765 7588 or
www.wtlc.com.au
JAMES BLUNDELL WOWS WHYALLA
Sunday night saw an incredible, record-shattering crowd of over 5000 people
attend Whyalla's "Carols in the Park"!
As darkness settled over a beautiful clear evening - Civic Park became awash
with twinkling lights as the massive audience enjoyed the marvellous programme
of music and Christmas cheer.
Event Co-ordinator - APEX Club of Whyalla's Leon Budden said "the 1500 Official
printed Programmes sold out in less than 20 minutes, as did our supply of
candles and glowsticks. Everyone was absolutely delighted with the turnout, and
the stellar show!"
Musical Director, Alison Hams, said working with the varied and talented cast
which included James Blundell, Jessie Che and her band, Whyalla Pipe Band and
the St Johns College Christmas Singers was a "real delight". Alison also
thanked Georgia and Caitlin Davidson from Whydale Calisthenics for their super
effort in performing 2 songs with the band!
Singer and musician Mark Tempany thought the highlight of the night was Santa
arriving by beautiful sleigh to meet the children of Whyalla - and our Carols
Colouring-in Competition winner, Jenna Daniels", preceded the event finale to
accept her prize - a Christmas hamper and a photo on stage with superstar James
Blundell!.
Campbelltown Arts Centre September 2006
Photo courtesy of Therese Bawden
AT 7.15pm on SUNDAY 17th DECEMBER in Civic Park,
Whyalla, South Australia this year's SPECIAL GUEST - Aussie music star JAMES
BLUNDELL - will headlining a sensational evening of music and family fun!
Along with James, this year's Carols will feature an all-South Australian
talent line-up including the JESSIE CHE BAND (Adelaide) , and Whyalla's own
country music star, recent SA GREAT ARTS Award WINNER! and Carols Musical
Director, ALISON HAMS!
Whyalla's "adopted son" - singer/songwriter MARK TEMPANY - will also perform
along with (after last years great debut) the St. JOHN'S CHRISTMAS SINGERS and
the always impressive WHYALLA PIPE BAND!
AND of COURSE Kids......
SANTA
...... will be dropping in to Civic Park again to continue his tradition of
visiting the good folk of Whyalla before he returns in secret on Christmas Eve!
SO, put Sunday 17th December on your calendar and prepare to be at Civic Park
to help Whyalla celebrate Christmas in the best way possible!
James Blundell teams with Felicity
Urquhart, Karl Broadie
Fresh from a whirlwind trip to Nashville platinum selling
singer-songwriter
James Blundell is once again hitting the road throughout October and November.
This week, James teams up with the critically acclaimed Felicity Urquhart for
five intimate diner shows in South East Queensland and Northern NSW.
Felicity was recently a big winner at the Telstra Southern Stars Independent
Country Music Awards picking up 3 trophies and duplicating James' 2005
success. James will be playing all his hits and crowd favourites as well as
previewing material from his forthcoming album due early 2007. Both singers
were nominated for Golden Guitars at this year's awards show and will be
performing individually and together over the course of the night.
Karl Broadie may have missed out on the best new talent trophy at this year's
Golden Guitar awards but there's no denying he is one of Australia's finest
new singer-songwriters. The winner of Roots/Americana category of the
International Songwriting Competition, Karl is making a mark with his new
video 'Black Crow Calling' and will join James for shows in Central Queensland
in early November.
James Back From Nashville, Appears on
All-Star Charity Single
Blundell Back From Nashville, Appears on All-Star
Charity Single
James Blundell has just returned from a whirlwind trip to Nashville that saw
him re-uniting with many of the people who worked on his highly
successful 'This Road' and 'Touch Of Water' albums. James, whose new album is
scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2007, is planning a return to
the style that made him a household name in the 1990s.
James was part of a contingent of Australian acts in Nashville to play the
10th Australian Festival from September 15-17. Joining James on stage as the
headline act on Friday evening were long-time Wilco drummer Ken Coomer (Uncle
Tupelo, Steve Earle), bass player James Haggarty (Josh Rouse) and guitarist
Tom Mason (Paul Westerberg, Chris Cagle). Over the course of the weekend James
also had the opportunity to perform with Diana Corcoran, Jedd Hughes, Luke
O'Shea, Megan Laurie and Pru Clearwater.
In addition to the festival and a handful of writing sessions the trip saw
James fulfil a lifelong dream to perform at the legendary Bluebird Café.
Never one to shirk hard work James' journey to the Bluebird was a long one -
he played Katherine (Thursday), Darwin (Friday & Saturday), Kalgoorlie (Sunday
& Monday), caught a charter flight to Perth and the Red Eye flight home
(Monday evening) which arrived at 6am Tuesday morning. After departing Sydney
at 10am that morning he arrived in Nashville at 5:30pm Tuesday afternoon, and
was on stage at the Bluebird by 6:30pm!
James also features on the charity single titled 'Take These Hands' that sees
some of Australia's best known musicians join together on a single for the
KIDS Foundation. The single titled 'Take These Hands' also features Jimmy
Barnes, Iva Davies (Icehouse), Diesel, Renee Geyer, Jimmy Little, Wendy
Matthews, Gary Pinto (CDB, now with Guy Sebastian), Jon Stevens, Katie
Underwood, Mark Callaghan (Gangajang), TV presenter Nick Hardcastle, Buzz
Bidstrup (The Angels), Grace Knight, Jade Macrae, Martin Plaza and newcomer
Amali Ward.
All profits from the single will go to the KIDS Foundation ( www.k-i-d-
s.org.au ) a registered charity dedicated to childhood injury prevention and
recovery. The Foundation provides practical and emotional support to
rehabilitating burn survivors and children injured in accidents while also
aiming to increase children's quality of life while in hospital and during
recovery.
'Take these Hands' is on sale now. It will be available for purchase on CD
from Pumpkin Patch and CUE stores across Australia; for download at iTunes and
other providers, or for order from www.musicshop.com.au. The song can also be
purchased through the project website at: www.soundremedy.com.au .
------------------------------------------------------
Neil Richards
Square One Entertainment
Office AUST +61 (7) 5548 6268
Office USA +1 (310) 928 1079
Mobile +61 413 391 859
PO Box 554 Jimboomba QLD Australia 4280
GO WEST at Bondi Junction for Country
Music!
Photo Courtesy of Carol and Therese
Saturday 15 July - GO WEST ON OXFORD ST WEST Bondi Junction is the first
singin', shoppin', boot-scootin' festival ever in Bondi Junction -perhaps in
the first country music extravaganza in the eastern Suburbs of Sydney! Go
West from Bondi Junction station to experience James Blundell, Bob Howe and
the Go West Band, plus the Mill Hill Bootscooters on the truckin' stage at
the corner of Oxford St West and Denison St.
The Go West - Oxford Street West promotion is an initiative of the Waverley
Council to celebrate the Oxford Street upgrade works. Over 25 stores are
offering special discounts on the day and all the music is free!
29th October 2006 - Dwayne Elix & The Engineers-
Country Show
& Junior Talent Quest Canley
Heights
RSL 2pm With
Special Guest James Blundell
Luella with James in Adelaide on Anzac Day
James Blundell at the Museum of
Fire
James is heading to Cyprus and the Sinai Desert to
entertain the members of the united peacekeeping forces including several
hundred Australian troops. He spent two and a half hours leaning essential
survival skills with experts from the Australian Army.
James at Rooty Hill Country Music
Festival
James on The Red Carpet Awards Night 2006
(Photo courtesy of Carisa)
14-07-2006 Mudgee Small Fields Farm Day Mudgee, NSW Ticket details TBA
28-07-2006 Rye RSL Rye, VIC Support: Luella
29-07-2006 Chelsea RSL Chelsea, VIC Support: Luella
30-07-2006 Deakin Waterfront Cafe Geelong, VIC Support: Luella
In the current landscape of cross-pollinating musical
genres James Blundell no longer finds himself bound by the artistic restrictions
once imposed on country artists.
Finding common ground with the likes of noted music rebels such as Steve Earle
and Gram Parsons who found initial success in the country genre before branching
out with their own brand of country-rock Blundell’s music in the year 2004 is as
much rock and pop as it is country and roots.
The forthcoming studio album ‘Deluge’ sees the platinum-selling performer
widening his repertoire with a sound guaranteed to appeal to rock and country
fans alike (think Tom Petty, John Mellencamp). “The songs are about commitment,
courage, and celebration,” says James, “and I am really looking forward to going
on the road to perform them.”
Over the course of his 15 year career James Blundell has earnt himself a
reputation as a master story teller with his ability to weaves tales of
contemporary Australian life and traditional values into a style that appeal to
the heartland of this wide brown land.
On ‘Deluge’ Blundell’s writing skills are complimented by the talents of Phil
Rigger and Terry McArthur from Sydney spoken word outfit the cube (who are
currently working up material for their second album with UK dance music
maestros Faze Action). Phil Rigger was also responsible for the production and
mixing of ‘Deluge’.
One of Australian country music’s true success stories James Blundell has been
the recipient of 9 Golden Guitar awards and is a four-time ARIA (Australian
Record Industry Association) Award nominee. He was the first local country
artist to create an impact on the mainstream pop charts (‘Way Out West’ his duet
with James Reyne was one of the biggest selling singles of 1992) and the first
Australian country act to sign to a major label recording deal via Nashville in
the USA.
‘Deluge’ is James Blundell’s eighth studio album and was released on Revenge
Records via MGM Distribution on January 26, 2005.
James recently toured with legendary singer-songwriter and actor, Kris
Kristofferson.
2005
Mildura - 9th Australian Independent
Country Music Awards
James Blundell - Independent Country Music Single of the Year
- Male Vocalist
- Heritage of the Year
TRACY COSTER - Independent Album of the Year
STACEY MORRIS - Female Vocalist
TRAVIS SINCLAIR - Independent Artist of the Year
RON and JUDY COLLINGBURN - Barry Thornton Service Award
AWARDS TRIFECTA TO JAMES BLUNDELL
Pictured:
James Blundell
www.shownet.com.au/cowboys/
Photos at the Mildura
JAMES BLUNDELL was the big winner at the 9th Australian
Independent Country Music Awards – the Telstra Country Wide
Southern Stars.
James won APRA/AMCOS Independent Country Music Single of the Year
and Male Vocalist with Postcards from Saigon, and Heritage of the
Year with Nature’s Gentleman. It is a triumphant move into the
Independent recording ranks for the former major label artist who
has won 9 Golden Guitars.
TRACY COSTER continued her winning way when Coster Country won the
coveted One Stop Entertainment Independent Album of the Year. The
album has already attracted awards for 2004 Independent Heritage
Track of the Year and a Golden Guitar (with Anne Kirkpatrick) for
Vocal Collaboration.
Sydney vocalist STACEY MORRIS won the Female Vocalist category
with Moonlight & Roses, SHELLEY EVANS took the Rising Star Female
category with Aces From The Man, and ROYDEN DONOHUE won Rising
Star Male with We’re Gone.
Young Victorian truck driver turned country music star TRAVIS
SINCLAIR was named Independent Artist of the Year – an award which
is determined by a separate panel and is judged on the artist’s
full range of activities during the year including recording,
performing, promotion and profile.
Since releasing his Rhythm Of The Highway Album and the current CD
Rush, Travis has achieved major success including nine Top 10
chart singles, a Golden Guitar and two Australian Independent
Country Music Awards.
Mildura Festival stalwarts RON and JUDY COLLINGBURN received the
Barry Thornton Service Award for their tireless efforts.
The awards are held annually as a climax to the huge Mildura
Country Music Festival. For further information, contact the
Awards Co-ordinator John Arnold on 0418 303206. Full Awards
details are on the Mildura Country Music Festival website at
www.milduracountrymusic.com.au
Kris Kristofferson and
James (Photo Courtesy of Therese)
Penrith
Panthers on 16th August
James and Band
at 2005 Galston Country Music Festival
James appointed Ambassador for
Vietnam Veterans
16-Jun-05 - from CMAA
James Blundell was recently appointed as an Ambassador for the
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia during the Associations
26th National Congress in Sydney.
He is donating his royalties from his
latest single ‘Postcards From Saigon’ toward the costs associated
with the construction of the VVAA National Museum at Phillip
Island in Victoria and the creation of the James Blundell Bursary
which will directly benefit the sons and daughters of Vietnam
veterans.
National President Mr Brian McKenzie said; “’Postcards from
Saigon’ depicts life experiences for many Vietnam veterans who
were left with a feeling of betrayal and rejection after returning
from the war. Unfortunately many disappeared as very confused
young people, left to deal with experiences of war with very
little support. However, over time, this Association, against
adversity, took up the torch to ensure the needs of our particular
veteran community were addressed.”
During the presentation Mr McKenzie said; “James is a great
Australian and supporter of Vietnam veterans and their families
and I urge veterans to rush out a get a copy of the single or the
album ‘Deluge’ because you will certainly be able to identify with
the theme of the song and the message it delivers. We see the
release of ‘Postcards of Saigon’ as an opportunity to remember and
celebrate the achievements of the Vietnam veteran community.”
Photo courtesy of Therese Bawden -
Crows Nest Festival
Photo courtesy of Therese Bawden -
Crows Nest Festival
James perform solo TWICE on Sunday at the
Crows Nest Festival, first at 12.00 noon and then 4.00 p.m.
Willoughby Road was blocked off and they
had stages set up throughout the street, plus stalls,
farm animals for the children to see,
show bags, etc. There were hundreds and hundreds
of people watching James’ two Shows
and Therese Bawden it was a fantastic day.
James and his band at Museum of Fire
Sunday 10th April 2005
courtesy of Therese Bawden
Photo from The Land
AN ANTHEM FOR A GENERATION:
JAMES BLUNDELL RELEASES HIS LANDMARK NEW SINGLE ‘POSTCARDS FROM
SAIGON’
"This a song about the
complex emotions surrounding the Vietnam War and is set to become
an anthem” Sue Jarvis, Country Music Capital News
"At last someone has told our story. Someone has cared enough to
see past the thousand yard stare and get to the bottom of what it
means to be a Vietnam Vet." - Barry Billing, Vietnam Veterans
Association of Australia, NSW State President.
Every now and again a song emerges on the musical landscape that
speaks about what it means to be an Australian at war. Of all the
wars that Australians fought and died in Vietnam was the longest
and most divisive. Of all the songs written about Vietnam John
Schumann's ‘I Was Only 19’ best captured the times and the
situations.
Now James Blundell has released the poignant and compelling
‘Postcards From Saigon’, a song which draws not only on the
Vietnam War but also more chillingly tells the present day story
of many of the 48,000 surviving Vietnam Veterans.
And for the soldiers that did make it home, unlike previous wars,
many were shunned or marginalised, and left to come to terms with
their experiences. This is the emotional heartland of ‘Postcards
From Saigon’. Written by James Blundell and Terry McArthur of
Sydney spoken word band, the cube, the song is not so much about
the Vietnam War as the effects of the war on the returned
servicemen and women who survived it:
Says James Blundell, “From the day I recorded ‘Postcards’ I knew
this was one of those special songs. And every time I have
performed it the response has been the same. People want to know
the story behind it; they want to talk about what it means. This
song doesn’t glorify war or depict our Viet vets as victims – that
is something neither they nor I would want. This is a song that
recognises many vets has suffered and continued to suffer terribly
from the events of those times. This is a song that is about
closing the circle, and seeing them for who they are."
Barry Billing puts it this way, “The first time I heard ‘Postcards
From Saigon I knew at last someone has told our story. Someone had
cared enough to see past the thousand-yard stare and get to the
bottom of what it means to be a Vietnam Vet. "
Billing and fellow Viet vet Barry Wright are working with director
Paul Howarth on the video clip, which is being shot in and around
Sydney and Canberra. Howarth has cast Billing as one of the
video’s central characters.
‘Postcards From Saigon’ is the first single off James Blundell's
new album ‘Deluge’ and will be released on Monday April 04 on
Revenge Records (distributed by MGM). The single is available for
radio download now on Musicpoint.. Artist Royalties from the sale
of the single will be donated to the Vietnam Veterans Association
of Australia and divided between the establishment of the Vietnam
Veterans Association of Australia Museum, and the James Blundell
Scholarship for the children of Vietnam Veterans.
The Troops
James Blundell - Lead Vocals/acoustic
guitar
Lawrie Minson - Mohann Veena
Mark O'Connor - Piano
Chris Bailey - Bass
Blair Greenberg - Claypots/ Shaker /
Bells
Danielle Blakey - Backing
Vocals
Phil Rigger- Backing vocals
James's new
album will be released on the 24th January 2005.
His Management also said that he would be heading the ‘Tamworth on
Tour’ in early February
James Number 1 Fan Therese Bawden
JAMES BLUNDELL - MURRAY RIVER REVIVAL
TOUR
October saw James Blundell on tour for the Murray River Revival
Tour. The tour kicked off in Albury and passed though towns,
such as Deniliquin, Lake Mulwala, Swan Hill, Mildura and was to
conclude with a concert in Renmark, South Australia.
James is Ambassador for the Bundaburg Rum Bush Fund.
The fund donates environmental grants across Australia and joined
forces with Landcare Australia for the tour. The tour
group supported six environmental projects that had been granted,
tackling environmental problems such as drought, salinity and
erosion and loss of native species in the Upper and Mid-Murray and
the Lower Murray-Darling Catchments.
There were many projects and activities planned to coincide with
the tour, such as the cleaning up of riverbanks, setting up of
picnic areas, erection of signs and fencing, planting of trees and
shrubs. Swan Hill was using its grant to set up a
native seed bank to collect and distribute native seeds for
propagation by Landcare.
Another interesting and innovative idea was a fishing competition
being held at Lake Mulwala to help reduce the number of carp. The
carp is a pest in the river and it was hoped that the competition
would promote a lot of interest and attract many competitors. The
carp that was caught in the competition, would then be recycled
into garden fertiliser.
The tour finished with a final concert in Renmark on October 9,
where James was to be joined by Jenny Morris and Iva Davies.
James
Blundell, Ms Krebs, property owner Tom Doolan
and Landcare
chief Brian Scarsbrick.
By KYLIE MUNRO
SINGER James Blundell took “living and working on the land” to a
new level yesterday with a $20,000 donation to the Woolshed Creek
Landcare group.
The boost from the Bundaberg Rum Bush Fund marked the start of the
Murray River Revival Tour, a 10-day romp across six Murray River
centres to promote the plight facing the waterway.
The tour started in Albury yesterday on the banks of Lake Hume and
will see $90,000 granted to Landcare groups at Echuca, Lake
Mulwala, Swan Hill, Mildura and Renmark.
Blundell, who grew up in rural Queensland and joined Landcare in
1990, said the tour would assist groups in stabilising the
riverbank, preventing erosion, removing invasive weeds and
regenerating native plants and animals.
The country star will perform six concerts on the tour.
“The Murray River is Australias' lifeblood,” Blundell said.
“Its already buckling under the strain of drought, salinity,
erosion and loss of native species.
“The Bundaberg Rum Bush Fund is our chance to do something about
it.”
Blundell said one of the reasons he became involved in Landcare
was because it presented achievable solutions.
“As opposed to saying this is a problem, fix it, Landcare brings
information to people, it says these are the things that are wrong
and it provides methods on how to fix them,” Blundell said.
Upper Murray Landcare community support officer Ms Kim Krebs said
the Woolshed group would use the donation it had received to
fence, sign post and revegetate 1.6km of Lake Hume foreshore from
adjoining farming properties.
“It will keep stock away so they don't use the lake as their
personal sewer and help prevent sediments creeping into the water
as well as raise awareness of the issues affecting the Murray
River,” she said.
James Blundell –
September 2004 Newsletter
With so many people asking “what’s he
been up to?” and “when is the
new album coming out?” we thought the time was right to let
everyone
know exactly what James Blundell has been up to over the past few
months and what’s coming up in the near future.
Currently James is in the studio finishing the final vocals on his
new
album DELUGE, his first since ‘I Shall Be Released: The Best of
James Blundell’ in 2001. DELUGE sees James sharing song-writing
duties with Phil Rigger and Terry McArthur from the decidedly
leftfield
spoken word songsters the cube and features great contributions
from Ian Moss (Cold Chisel), Dave Leslie (ex Baby Animals) and
Kirk
Pengilly (INXS) along with some of Sydney’s finest session
musicians.
DELUGE will be out January 26, 2005 on Revenge Records (through
MGM) so keep your eyes and ears open for that one.
James recently recorded two tracks
for a forthcoming ABC/Universal Music
compilation. Produced by Garth Porter CROSSING THE TRACKS sees
country/roots artists remaking their favourite Australian hits:
James has done a great
version of The Church’s ‘Unguarded Moment’ as well as a duet with
Lee
Kernaghan on Icehouse’s classic ‘Great Southern Land’. Other acts
featured include Sara Storer
(‘One Perfect Day’), Beccy Cole
(‘Pleasure & Pain’), Felicity (‘Throw Your Arms
Around Me’) and Feral Swing Cats (‘Bad Habits’).
CROSSING THE TRACKS is in stores on October 11, 2004.
Those who take notice of the charts
will be aware that The Eagles have been
perched atop the Australian Music DVD charts for many months. Last
week The
Eagles were knocked off by THE CONCERT FOR SLIM which entered
the DVD charts at NUMBER ONE! James was one of over 30 acts who
performed at the Tamworth Entertainment Centre in January 2004
before a capacity crowd to celebrate the life and songs of Slim
Dusty. All
proceeds from the sale of this
DVD will go directly to the Slim Dusty
Foundation to aid in the
development of the Slim Dusty Centre in Kempsey,
NSW, where he was born.
James also penned the track ‘Nature’s
Gentleman’ which was included
on Slim’s final album COLUMBIA LANE: THE LAST SESSIONS
(out now through EMI Music) which is fast approaching platinum
status.
On the live front we’re keeping it
pretty low-key and laid back but will be
putting the band together for a few shows in November and
December.
Prior to that James is headlining the Murray River Revival Tour, a
ten
day journey (in support of Landcare and The Bundaberg Rum Bush
Fund) aimed at highlighting the environmental issues of one of
Australia’s most important waterways. Commencing in Albury, NSW on
Thursday September 30 the tour concludes in Renmark, S.A on
Saturday
October 09 with an all star concert featuring Jenny Morris,
Icehouse’s
Iva Davies, Stuart Fraser (Noiseworks) and Jon Stevens who is set
to
release a new solo album after a lengthy stint out front of INXS.
At Umina
James with Peter who loved the
new songs from James' 'Deluge' album. (Photo courtesy of
Peter's mum Therese Bawden)
James signing 'Texas' to the lady
with her hand on her
chin. She is clearly 'mesmerised' by him singing especially to
her.
(Photo courtesy of Therese Bawden)
James’ Website is under
reconstruction, so, I will ask him all about it plus the Website
says his 8th album is called ‘Deluge’ and will be released on the
26th January 2005 – at long last!!!!
Saturday evening 19th June
2004.
“ROCK on the REEF”
FIRST EVER ACOUSTIC CONCERT ON THE GREAT BARRIER REEF
Today, Lady Elliot Island Holidays & Seair Pacific, have released
a limited number of tickets for the first ever, acoustic concert
on the Great Barrier Reef.
Australian country legend, James Blundell, along with friends Eric
Weideman (former lead singer 1927) and JJ Harris (former drummer
of 1927 and Divinyls) will be performing live and unplugged, on
the first island of the Great Barrier Reef, Saturday evening 19th
June 2004.
James Blundell is one of Australia’s leading country music stars
and is a nine-time Golden Guitar winner.
Eric Wiedeman, the voice of 1927 – one of the biggest selling,
ARIA award winning Australian bands of all time. 1927 achieved 10
Top 40 singles, including “That’s When I Think Of You” and “If I
Could”, nearly a million domestic album sales and international
success in Europe, Asia, and South America through to the mid
1990’s.
JJ Harris has played drums for 1927, and previously played with
the critically acclaimed band Gangajang. Harris was also the
drummer of The Divinyls at the height of the group’s fame, playing
stadiums in both the USA and UK.
To be one of the privileged few to spend a casual, intimate,
acoustic evening with some of Australia’s finest musicians, in an
idyllic setting, under the stars, surrounded by a pristine coral
lagoon, on the Great Barrier Reef, call now 1800 072 200 for
further details and information. Flights depart to Lady Elliot
Island from Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Brisbane, Maroochydore or
Coolangatta.
Media inquiries: Jana Levak - 0500 821 016 or
marketing@ladyelliot.com.au
LADY ELLIOT ISLAND
LOCATION: 80km North-East of Bundaberg, Lady Elliot Island is the
first island of the Great Barrier Reef
ATTRACTIONS: (1) Lady Elliot Island is situated directly on the
Great
Barrier Reef.
(2) The island provides a protected sanctuary for Sea and Tropical
Birds, the reef is home to Turtles, Manta Rays, Humpback whales,
Dolphins, colourful variety of fish and coral.
(3) Its’ easily accessible – has it’s own airstrip, flights depart
Hervey Bay and Bundaberg daily for day tours or island stays.
Coolangatta, Brisbane and Maroochydore for day tours. Seair
Pacific is the air charter used for transfers.
ACCOMMODATION:
Lady Elliot Island Resort has the capacity to hold
approximately105 guests overnight. The island has 37 rooms across
4 styles of accommodation, including
- Island Suites
- Reef Units
- Shearwater Rooms
- Tent Cabins
CONTACT FOR FURTHER DETAILS:
Jana Levak
Sales and Marketing Executive
Lady Elliot Island
PO BOX 5206 Torquay 4655
PH: (07) 4124 8144 OR 0500 821 016
FAX: (07) 4124 8344
EMAIL:
marketing@ladyelliot.com.au
James Blundell to perform at
Bingara
FIVE-time Golden Guitar
winner James Blundell is special guest performer at a dinner and
show in aid of the Bingara Children's Cancer Appeal.
For those who haven't heard of the place, Bingara is a beautiful
little north-west NSW town, 150km north of Tamworth.
The Bingara Children's Cancer Appeal was launched when four of the
town's youngsters, aged from two to 15 years, were diagnosed
within a six-month period with cancer and leukaemia.
One of the children with leukaemia, three-year-old Hannah Lanagan,
lost her fight with the disease on March 7.
To be held on Saturday, May 1 at Bingara RSL Club, the dinner and
show carries a price tag of $40 per person, which includes a
delicious meal, beer and wine.
Committee member Rebecca Mack said James had a previous commitment
in Darwin on that date, but phoned and asked if he could come to
Bingara when the date became available.
"We're delighted to have a performer of James's stature offering
his time and talents to benefit the appeal," Rebecca said.
"It's coming together beautifully as a community event, with RSL
staff donating their time on the night, and Tooheys and a number
of wineries donating the alcohol.
"By the time it all comes together, we would expect most of the
food for the dinner would also come by way of donation. Bingara is
just that kind of town.
"What isn't donated will be taken care of by the RSL. They've been
fantastic."
Rebecca said special guests at the dinner would be 12-year-old
Kyle Fletcher and two-year-old Jayden Gillogly, two of the
children whose families are being assisted in the appeal.
Rebecca said she was not yet certain whether Andy Rampling would
be back from Sydney where he is receiving treatment for leukaemia.
The dinner is just a few days before young Kyle is due to be
operated on.
Less than two weeks after that event is the concert at Bingara's
magnificent Roxy Theatre, starring Felicity Urquhart and Adam
Harvey, on Friday, May 14.
Felicity is just back from Nashville where she has been
songwriting and recording with American hitmaker, Randy Scruggs.
Adam has been touring the country since the release of his new ABC
album, Cowboy Dreams, so getting him to Bingara was a major coup
for the appeal committee.
All they need now is a full house and with a capacity of just 400,
that's highly likely to happen quickly once word gets out.
Phone Jenny Mead on 6724 0066 at the Tourist Information Centre to
secure tickets at $25 per person, or pop into the northern foyer
of the Roxy, where the centre is located.
The Roxy is a beautiful theatre, and having recently been fully
restored to its former glory, has all the amenities you would
expect, including ramps and facilities for the disabled.
Anyone who would like to assist the families of these children
battling the potentially fatal diseases, can phone Rebecca Mack
during business hours on (02) 6724 1505.
Australian
performer James Blundell appointed as the Face of RegionalLink
2 April 2004
Renowned Australian singer-songwriter James Blundell was named
today as the face and voice of the newly-formed
RegionalLink Airlines
, a national coalition of regional
carriers which has formed Australia's first airline franchise.
The multi award-winning performer, who has a strong affinity with
regional Australia, will be the roving ambassador for RegionalLink,
which will unite independently-owned regional carriers throughout
the country under a single brand with shared core functions such
as reservations, purchasing, yield management, airport services
and information technology.
As well as appearing in print and electronic promotions for
RegionalLink throughout Australia, Mr Blundell will be the voice
of the group in announcements ranging from on-hold phone messages
to in-flight safety briefing tapes. Many of his performances in
regional Australia also will be supported by the new airline
group.
Airnorth, Airlines of South Australia and Adelaide-based Emu
Airways - all owned by Darwin aviation company Capiteq Ltd - are
the founding members of RegionalLink, which will provide a
national brand and centralised procurement system for group
members.
Mr Blundell's appointment as RegionalLink Ambassador was announced
in Darwin, where an Embraer Brasilia aircraft was unveiled in the
new blue and silver RegionalLink colour scheme.
"I grew up on a sheep and cattle station in Queensland, and have
always been passionate about regional Australia and its people,"
said Mr Blundell. "The bush is really the heart and soul of this
country, and it is the RegionalLink commitment to sustainable
flights to regional centres that has convinced me to endorse this
concept."
The Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, the Hon Claire
Martin MP, who joined Mr Blundell at today's launch ceremony, said
the vast distances and sparse population of Australia made the
regional airline industry critical to the national interest.
"Healthy regional airlines are crucial to the well-being of remote
communities, particularly here in the Northern Territory," said Ms
Martin. "The RegionalLink concept is to be applauded for its aim
of providing sustainable and affordable services through a
strategy of shared resources and lower costs for participating
airlines."
The Chief Executive of RegionalLink, Mr Ian Mitchell, said several
other independently-owned regional airlines throughout Australia
have also commenced discussions with a view to joining the airline
coalition this year.
"Regional airlines in Australia are facing significant cost
challenges, and our aim is to ensure sustainable service to as
many regional markets as possible," said Mr Mitchell.
"James Blundell is a performer with a passion for regional
Australia, and its people, and we are delighted that he has agreed
to become the voice and the face of RegionalLink Airlines. His
commitment to the bush is perfect for the message we are driving
home - that regional Australia is important to all of us."
James at
Five Dock RSL Club Courtesy of Therese Bawden
Photo courtesy of Carol taken at
Rooty Hill
Tamworth
Rage Page
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