It’s the biggest night in Australian country music – the annual CMAA Country Music Awards of Australia. The 37th Awards are set to take place next year at the Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Convention Centre (TRECC), on Saturday 24 January.

Finalists for the trophies were revealed yesterday, with some of Australia’s most iconic musicians vying for top honours. Leading the way with six nominations (APRA Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Heritage Song of the Year, Bush Ballad of the Year and Vocal Collaboration of the Year) thanks to his Hillbilly Road LP is “Old Man Emu” singer John Williamson, who already has 23 “Golden Guitar Awards” under his belt.

Kasey Chambers and Shane Nicholson, meanwhile, picked up five nominations (APRA Song of the Year, Group or Duo of the Year, Album of The Year, Video Clip of the Year and Single of the Year) with their release, Rattlin’ Bones, while newcomer Jasmine Rae landed two nominations, including Female Artist of the Year.

Other artists vying for the coveted guitars next year include: Peter Denahy, The McClymonts, Catherine Britt, Melinda Schneider, Adam Brand, The Sunny Cowgirls, Davidson Brothers, Adam Harvey, Warren H Williams and Amos Morris. Late country music legends Slim Dusty and Smoky Dawson will also be honoured for their careers on the night.

Tickets for the CMAA Country Music Awards are onsale now via visittamworth.com.