The stage is set

WITHOUT venues for artists, the Ballina Coastal Country Music Festival couldn't be held.

"It's as simple as that," said organiser Carol Stacey.

But the festival will be held.

Mrs Stacey is delighted that six licensed venues will host musicians for the second annual festival, to be held on the Labour Day long weekend, from September 28-30.

"They're a great support," she said.

"Without the venues, we wouldn't have a festival."

The venues to host the musicians this year are the Ballina RSL Club and Ballina RSL Bowling Club, the Australian Hotel, the Hotel Henry Rous, the Shaws Bay Hotel and the Westower Tavern.

Speaking on behalf of the licensed venues, Gavin Fensom, from the Australian Hotel, said last year's festival was a "great success".

"This year we're hoping for a bigger year," he said.

The Ballina Masonic Hall this year will host bush poets and balladeers.

The official launch of the festival, which has been supported by Ballina Shire Council, will be held at Twenty-Nine in Fawcett St, on May 25, from 7pm.

The major acts for this year's festival will be announced at the launch.

And the winner of last year's busking competition, Jenny Biddle, will travel from her Victorian home to perform.

The launch is open to the public, and the tickets cost $40. They are available at Twenty-Nine.

If other local businesses are interested in sponsoring the country music festival, phone Carol on 0408 663 325.