Shandell Named Ambassador to ABCRA National Finals

Australian-born singer-songwriter Shandell was announced the ambassador of the National Finals to be held in January.

Hosted by the Australian Bushmen’s Campdraft and Rodeo Association (ABCRA), the finals take place from 19-23 January during the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

“It’s such an honour to be the ABCRA National Finals ambassador. It’s the passion that beats in me – a passion for country, our people and our stories,” says Shandell.

Pairing the National Finals with the second largest country music festival in the world is a double win for Tamworth and a boost for the regional economy and festival attendees.

The focused young country musician is forging a career in country music with international accolades and two EPs, including her latest release, Satin and steel. Her hit single Baby you broke it debuted in the top 50 on the Country Music Charts and she is the youngest musician and only Australian to win the coveted Nashville Songsearch competition.

“We are proud to have such a positive, accomplished country artist and competitor behind the ABCRA National Finals,” says Dianne Hallam General Manager of ABCRA.

As ambassador, Shandell will perform at the National Finals Rodeo from the 23rd-26th January at the new purpose built AELEC arena, and will be a guest presenter on the National Finals Rodeo highlights package’ broadcaster Fox Sports television.

Music and rodeo fans will also see her compete as a National Rodeo Finalist. She is a regular competitor and currently ranked among Australia’s top 15 rodeo women.

There's no pigeon-holing this country singer-cum-cowgirl who likes to challenge herself and keep her mind active. "Life’s to exciting too ignore. You've got to shake things up and not get stale,” says Shandell.

The Tamworth Music Festival celebrates its 41st year and attracts over 50,000 visitors. It won a recent NSW Tourism award for Major Festivals and Events.

Story: Fiona Tranter/ABCRA

Quick Link

• Visit the ABCRA website for more informaton on the National Finals
• View rodeo/barrel racing horses for sale on Horsezone