COUNTRY music fans were literally rolling through the gates of the Illabo Country Music Stampede as a convoy of caravans arrived for the event.
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While hundreds brought their caravans, there were slightly fewer spending their nights under canvas, but publicity officer Caroline Willis said there were plenty of new faces out to see what all the beautiful noise was about.
"There was a great, relaxed, friendly atmosphere with perfect weather for the weekend," Mrs Willis said.
Organisers have donated $1100 to John Harper's Mate Helping Mate program which focuses on helping farmers rise above depression.
The talent on show was again exceptional, with many first-timers and experienced musicians and vocalists wowing the crowd.
Guest performer Kimmy Williams made a return to one of the talent shows that launched her career.
"What an absolute brilliant weekend at the Illabo Country Music Stampede," Ms Williams said.
"I forgot what a fantastic time I have had over the many years it has been running. The organisers should be extremely proud of themselves. The weather was amazing and everyone is so friendly.
Aimee Hannan won one of the talent show's biggest prizes, four hours of recording time at Wagga's Flying Fox Studios.
Mrs Willis said the feedback from the event was hugely positive.
"The main comment was how much they loved the Illabo Stampede and how they would return with their friends."
Talent quest results
Veterans
The Dennis Gittoes Award: Brian Ridge
Second: Alex Winnell
Vocal sub-juniors
First: Jamee-Lee Booth
Second: Amy Crighton
Vocal junior
First: Jessica Payne
Second: Maddison Collier
Australian junior bush ballad
Don Hodge Memorial Award: Amy Crighton
Second: Maddison Collier
Australian bush ballad
Keith Clemson Memorial Award: Jim Samphier
Second: Aimee Hannan
Gospel junior
First: Claire Crighton
Second: Maddison Collier
Gospel senior
First: Coby Midsome
Second: Peter Lee
Duo/Group
First: Mark Peagan and Aimee Hannan
Second: Maddison Collier and Coby Midsome
Vocal Senior
First: Aimee Hannan
Second: Katie Gould
Dudley Belling Memorial Trophy
For the highest individual score on Saturday
Aimee Hannan
Winner of recording time at Wagga's Flying Fox Studios
Aimee Hannan