Tragedy, triumph in winning album

A Kimberley musician has continued to impress after picking up two wins at the Boyup Brook Country Music Festival last month.

Bidyadanga-based musician John Bennett was nominated for three awards, winning West Australian Country Music Album of the Year for his album Country is Calling, and West Australian Country Music Male Artist of the Year.

Although Bennett was unable to attend the ceremony, he said he felt very honoured.

“My musical journey began a long time ago back in my hometown, Bidyadanga, and has taken me to some wonderful places and allowed me to play with some of the best in the industry,” he said.

“The journey on (Country is Calling) was a long one, filled with family tragedy and personal triumphs, but we got there in the end.”

Bennett thanked those involved in his musical journey.