The Awards were established in 2000. This is the 23rd year of the Awards which were established as a balance to the numerous awards presented in country music in Australia by giving “the people” the right to vote and have a say in who they believe is the best. They remain the only Awards in Australian country music where voters can vote for whoever they like… that is, not being restricted to a pre-determined list of finalists. This year’s guest artists include finalists Benny Allen, Ian Burns, Cassidy-Rae, Tracy Coster, Justin Landers, Dianne Lindsay & Peter Simpson, The Long & Short Of It, Brendan McMahon, Andy Penkow, The Silverline and Willow plus special guest comperes Jayne Denham and Ray McCoy.