The Southern Stomp is coming to Gore, and bringing a big lineup of country music stars from around the country.
Organiser and club members’ representative of the Gore Country Music Club Julie Mitchell said she was excited about the event.
"It’s going to be great.
"There’s a real mix of different types of music, it’s very affordable and it’s a live performance," she said.
Mrs Mitchell said the Southern Stomp had started in Cromwell, but after money woes, the event was passed along to the Gore club.
"Cromwell gave it up because it was too costly.
"They had a massive marquee and asked if Gore would take it on."
The club did not miss their chance to take on the event, and got to planning.
The event will be held on November 2 and 3 at the Town and Country Club, and tickets are available now for an early-bird price of $50 for weekend entry.
It will feature live entertainment, including walk-up performances by those who want to take part.
Mrs Mitchell said she thought the events like this were great for local businesses.
"I think it have a very good economic impact for the town.
"It’s going to attract a lot of motorhomers, people who come in town and need a place to stay, they’ll go out to eat, it’s near Christmas so they’ll go out and shop."
Mrs Mitchell said the showcase featured heavy hitters in New Zealand country, including fiddle player Marian Burns, past Gold Guitar winner Zach Griffith and the Harmonic Resonators, who were always a hit in the region.
"The Harmonic Resonators came down last year and performed at the RSA, and they were a smash hit.
"They had a full house. They always do a great performance."
Frontman for the Harmonic Resonators Jeremy Hantler said the band was excited to perform at the Southern Stomp.
"We’re always extremely well received in Southland, and we’re really stoked to be able to perform.
"This looks like such a wicked gig. There’s a bunch of heavy hitters on the lineup, and we’re so jazzed to be able to share the stage with such amazing musicians."
Hantler said his group sang and performed all around New Zealand, but the Southland crowds just hit differently.
"People almost come out as a novelty in the North Island, but there’s a tradition of New Zealand country in South Island that’s really infectious."
