A LIFE-LONG dream came true for Luke Austen when he won the talent quest that launched the careers of stars like Keith Urban, Lee Kernaghan, Beccy Cole and Gina Jeffreys.
Winning the 31st star maker quest at the Tamworth country music festival on Sunday night left Austen shaking and lost for words.
"I am shaking, this is great," he said.
"I'm on cloud nine."
The singer-songwriter and guitarist who first performed on stage with his dad's family band at age four has dreamed of this moment all his life.
"This is amazing, I have always wanted to be able to bring my music to you," he said.
It has been a year of firsts for Austen, who became a first-time father only seven months ago.
"You need ups and downs to put in your songs to make it appealing to anyone," he said.
"You need dark moments, you need happy moments."
Austen describes himself as an urban country artist.
"Music has always been in the family, music has always been in my blood," he said.
His advice to other youngsters trying to make a name for themselves in the industry is to stay committed.
"You have got to really commit to the tool of your trade, whether you are an artist with a paintbrush or a runner with joggers," he said.
The prize for winning the talent quest changes every year. Austen won a contract to record an album, a photographic portfolio and media promotion, among many other things.
Meanwhile, a performance by Man in Black featuring rock legend Tex Perkins will be the highlight tonight at the Tamworth country music festival.
Casey Chambers will also perform in a show for her father, country music star Bill Chambers, along with several other stars including Troy Cassar Daley tonight.
Flooding is again a concern after storms around the Tamworth area last night.
