Winton showcases international talent at Way Out West Fest

WALTZING Matilda is ingrained in the Australian psyche and has inspired a nation. In April 2018, Winton celebrates the re-opening of the iconic Waltzing Matilda Centre with one of the biggest inland music and culture festivals ever held in Queensland, with Winton’s Way Out West Fest.

Bringing together artists from country, pop, rock and blues, the festival brings Jessica Mauboy, John Williamson, The Living End, Kip Moore (USA), Lee Brice (USA), Sheppard, Busby Marou, Russell Morris, The Black Sorrows, Pierce Brothers and more together for the the four-day festival from April 19-22.

“It’s a real honour to play with such a great line-up of stars for Winton’s Way Out West Fest,” Jessica Mauboy said. “Waltzing Matilda is one of the icons of Australian folklore and the reopening of the Waltzing Matilda Centre will, itself, be a new chapter in the history of our nation. I can’t wait to share the occasion with the thousands who will come from all corners of Australia to celebrate with us.”

After its devastating destruction by fire in 2015, the newly rebuilt $23 million Waltzing Matilda Centre will be the pride of Western Queensland once more, as the journey of Waltzing Matilda turns another chapter.

With a country race meeting, live entertainment across the town, markets and more, Winton will come alive with country hospitality, creating not just an amazing music festival, but a complete outback experience like no other.

“The Waltzing Matilda Centre is an essential aspect of our region and to welcome it back in such spectacular fashion is a testament to the spirit of our community,” Winton Council acting mayor Cr Shane Mann said. “With some of the country’s finest talent as well as the kind of country hospitality that our region can provide, Winton’s Way Out West Fest is going to be a unique experience.”