Tamworth Country Music Updates 2011, Star Maker presented by Ben Sorensen
Channel: SkipFilmProductions
Date: 2011-12-30

http://www.skipfilms.com.au
Skip Film Productions Australia www.skipfilms.com Producer Noel Sadler 

ON THE ROAD TO STARDOM: LUKE DICKENS 32ND WINNER 
 
Luke Dickens has stars in his eyes after being announced as winner of the 2011 Toyota Star Maker competition, Australia's oldest and most successful music talent search.

Held at the Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre on Sunday, January 16, Luke was declared 2011 Toyota Star Maker from a field of 20 finalists and six grand finalists. 

All 20 finalists were joined by 2010 Toyota Star Maker winner Luke Austen, whose year as Toyota Star Maker has culminated in a remarkable four Golden Guitar nominations, including Male Artist of the Year, at the 39th CMAA Country Music Awards of Australia.

As the 2011 Toyota Star Maker, Luke said that he is excited by the prospects that lie ahead. 

"It's an amazing feeling to be awarded a prize that has started the careers of some of the biggest names in country music. It's a huge opportunity and I intend to make the most of it," Luke said.

"Seeing 2010 winner Luke Austen go from strength-to-strength, culminating in four Golden Guitar nominations has been really inspiring and I can't wait to see what the next 12 months have install for me," he said.

A country kid with a love of the outback, Luke Dickens left school at 16 and plied his trade shearing sheep in Young for the next nine years -- but his success on Australian Idol(2008) ended that chapter. 

Luke toured with Country's New Stars alongside Amber Lawrence, Luke Austen and Victoria Baillie. The year 2010 was a major one in Luke Dickens' career. In July, Luke released his debut album, Underdog. He and his band kicked off the album tour performing for Aussie troops in Afghanistan. For Luke, the tour was a career highlight and one of his most humbling and unforgettable experiences.

General Manager for Rural Press Events, Barry Harley, said that the quality of performers continues to grow, in line with interest in the event.

"It's difficult to believe that the event is heading into its 32nd year and still continually manages to take country music to new heights. Toyota Star Maker continues to set the benchmark in showcasing Australian country music's best new talent," he said.

"Last year's winner, Luke Austen, has made fantastic use of this opportunity and I have no doubt that Luke Dickens will do the same," Barry said. 

Toyota's Manager of Promotions and Event Management, Wayne Gabriel, said Toyota's support of the competition stemmed from its commitment to supporting emerging country music talent and Rural Australia's communities.

"Following in the footsteps of Australian country music royalty including Keith Urban, Lee Kernaghan, Kylie Sackley, and Samantha McClymont (of The McClymonts), the success of previous Star Maker winners has no doubt provided motivation for many of our finalists today. The title, as well as the prize package provides Luke with everything he needs to really kick start his career in 2011," he said.
Skip Film Productions 
Noel Sadler
www.skipfilms.com.au
skipfilms@bigpond.com