My Countrytown: Sammy White – Townsville

Regional towns are in our blood here at CountryTown! From Tamworth to Toowoomba to Noojee. We love the pubs, the people and the places that make Australia tick. But most of all, we love the amazing country musicians our regional centres produce, like Sammy White.

Hailing from Far North Queensland, the reigning Toyota Star Maker recently released her latest single, Running Away Tonight. The track is her first delivery since her Top 10 ARIA debut album Undone, which included the singles Drowning My Sorrows, I Can’t Outrun You, Lay It On Me and Home (Feels Like You). Sammy will hit the road with powerhouse performer Brooke Schubert on their eleven date ‘Talk About’ Tour. The tour kicks off on May 6, and will see the duo travel from Brisbane to Townsville and out west, bringing their music to regional Queensland.

To get to know Sammy a little better, we’ve asked what she loves about her hometown, Townsville.

Balance between the city and rural living

I grew up on the northern side of Townsville on my Nan and Pop’s hobby farm. Growing up in what is considered quite a coastal town, I love the fact that I was raised on property with the country lifestyle. It’s a really nice balance between the city and rural living.

Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island is right on the doorstep of Townsville – about 20 minutes on a ferry – and home of picture perfect beaches, coral reefs and koalas. When we go over to Maggie, we hire a Mini Moke, do some fishing and make pit stops at the Marlin Bar and Scallywags. It’s the go to place for a relaxing weekend away.

Reef HQ

Townsville is also home to the Reef HQ – the world's largest living coral reef aquarium and national education centre for the Great Barrier Reef. I did a gig at the Reef HQ years ago, and was given a private tour through their turtle hospital. It was a great experience and one I’ll never forget.

Castle Hill

You can’t visit Townsville without checking out Castle Hill. It stands 286m above sea level and provides a 360 degree view of the city. I used to walk the Castle Hill ‘Goat Track’ regularly. Now, I opt for the drive up. No matter how you make it to the top, the view is worth the trip. Truly something else.

Ever-expanding music scene

There’s an ever-expanding music scene in Townsville. I learnt the ropes of the industry from Townsville rock star, Tracey Osmond at The Voice Singing School. She gave me my first, second and third job, and a start for many, many cover gigs in the area. She’s definitely the backbone of my achievements and I always pop in for a cuppa.

Follow Sammy on her Facebook page here.

For more of our My CountryTown series, check out here.

Image: Supplied