From the Wingham Chronicle, September 2, 2009, page 3:

The Manning Valley can look forward to another exciting and diverse event when the Wingham Akoostik Music Festival returns for its third year this October.

The boutique live music event will be headlined by Shane Howard, the man behind the massive anthem Solid Rock, which he recorded in 1982 with his legendary band Goanna. The song, which was one of the first in rock to broach the subject of Aboriginal rights, reverberated across the airwaves and it still does today. Howard has developed a reputation as one of Australia’s greatest and most prolific songwriters with artists such as John Farnham and Troy Cassar-Daley recording their own versions of his tunes.

The 2009 Akoostik Fest will feature a range of artists — including some exciting emerging talents — who will perform all their original songs in unplugged mode.

The lineup also includes The Cruel Sea’s Dan Rumour and his band The Drift, last year’s festival favourite Afro Moses, and the hoedown sounds of Thrillbilly Stomp.

Local talents include Kate Delaney, Love Parade, The Last Train, Up In Annie’s Room, Sofiella Watt, The Workshop, Wherrol B Flat, Tenika Vakauta and The Hydrafonics.

The outdoor event boasts a full weekend of music over October 17 and 18, along with tempting food, great coffee, and market stalls.

The inaugural Wingham Akoostik Music Festival was a massive success in 2007, drawing about 1400 people to the heart of town for the day of inspiring live sounds. The 2008 event eclipsed this success, with the festival program expanding to a two-day event.

The not-for-profit festival has been organised by a small group of Wingham residents for the benefit of the town and to allow musicians the chance to play their original music in a live environment.

Music and food are not the only attractions. The kids are catered for too with a jumping castle, face painting and plenty of fun activities to keep them entertained.

The event is alcohol-free, in keeping with the family-friendly atmosphere.

Tickets will be available soon from Bent On Food or Ashlea Road Boutique in Isabella Street, Wingham, at Leading Edge Music in Victoria Street, Taree, or online at www.moshtix.com.au.