AUSTRALIAN country music icon John Willliamson shed a tear as his four decades in the industry were formally recognised by Governor General Quentin Bryce in a surprise celebration during the Tamworth festival.
"John has found a voice that speaks to us of what we stand for. He is a maker of songs, a teller of stories, a poet and a true believer," Ms Bryce said.
"Today, we acknowledge the extraordinary offering across 40 years of one of our most iconic and beloved artists."
While humour has been an enduring part of his songs, first getting his break on a TV talent quest with his song Old Man Emu, Williamson has also tackled the challenges faced by Australia.
"A more serious voice emerged as well speaking to the challenge of sustaining our identity, our integrity and our home land," Governor Bryce said.
"He captures what we most love about our country.
"We hope you will sing us the outback for many years to come."
With three Aria awards, 24 Golden Guitars and nearly four million album sales over four decades, Williamson remains humble.
"I am very, very honoured," he said.
"I knew about this about seven minutes ago. I am completely unprepared and quite emotional now after a most flattering speech."
One of his greatest hits, True Blue, has been called an unofficial anthem and Williamson hopes that all Australians can come together over a mutual love of the land.
"If you are Aussies, whether you are black, white or newcomers to this country if you fall in love with the land itself that will bring us together," he said.
"That is what I have always fought for and always sung about."
