Preparations have begun for the 50th anniversary of the Toyota Country Music Festival, Tamworth with the host city's Big Golden Guitar set for a facelift ahead of the huge milestone event.
The nationally recognised iconic tourist attraction will be closed to the public between Tuesday, October 5 and Saturday, October 9 in order for Tamworth Regional Council to undertake the required maintenance
Council's Coordinator, Visitor Economy Kate Baker says the Big Golden Guitar is definitely in need of some TLC.
"Given the extremes of temperatures we experience in this region, the guitar is faded and weathered, and in need of a make-over."
As part of the facelift Council and contractors will undertake the mammoth task of thoroughly cleaning the guitar, before carrying out minor repairs and respraying in a long-lasting bright gold paint.
During the maintenance period tourists and member of the public will not be able to access the guitar in order to take photos and the much-loved selfie.
"Unfortunately due to safety reasons the Big Golden Guitar will be out of action for the refurbishing period," says Council's Kate Baker.
"While COVID-19 restrictions are preventing many people from travelling at the moment, we've also timed the maintenance outside of the October school holiday period to ensure minimal disruption to the public."
The facelift will be completed in time for the 50th Tamworth worth Country Music Festival in January 2022.
Festival organisers are wanting to put the city's best foot forward for the momentous celebration.
"This city is known as Australia's Country Music Capital and for good reason, Tamworth hosts the biggest music festival in Australia and the biggest country music festival in the Southern Hemisphere,"
says Festival organiser, Barry Harley.
"And it's only fitting that the Big Golden Guitar is looking it's best for the big 50th celebration."
The maintenance works start on October 5.
