Tamworth Country Music Festival: councillor wants audit of city's intellectual property to protect country music capital identity

As the festival approaches its 50^th year, Tamworth Regional Council (TRC) councillor Glenn Inglis said it's time to take stock of the city's country music intellectual property rights.

In a report slated for Tuesday's council meeting, Cr Inglis said an audit of intellectual property rights and a plan going forward are necessary.

"As we approach this landmark 50th year, it is a perfect time to reflect and take stock of the inventory of acquired business assets relating to country music," he said.

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"Intellectual property rights are valuable assets and can provide the community of Tamworth a competitive edge in an ever-growing contestable marketplace."

The review would include trademarks, patents, copyright and designs.

Everything from Tamworth Country Music Festival (TCMF) logos to the cavalcade, the Big Golden Guitar and even the award trophies should be protected from commercialisation by others, Cr Inglis said, as well as the Country Music Roll of Renown, the Hall of Fame, the wax museum and more.

"We need to undertake an audit and accurately identify all community-owned TCMF assets, including all associated intellectual property assets, and seek formal advice on the available options and advantages of each asset," he said.

"In particular, it is important to ensure where possible that all assets generally remain for exclusive use in Tamworth."

The 50^th anniversary of TCMF will be held from January 14 to 23, 2022 after the 49^th festival was cancelled due to COVID-19.

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