Tamworth is a major regional city in northeastern New South Wales, Australia, located on the Peel River and serving as the administrative centre for the Tamworth Regional Council. With a population of 43,874 as of 2021, it is the largest and most populated city in its region and the third largest inland city in New South Wales. Positioned 318 kilometres from the Queensland border, Tamworth lies almost midway between Brisbane and Sydney.
The city holds historical significance as Australia's first city to install electric streetlights, achieved in 1888, earning it the nickname "First City of Lights." Originally established in the mid-19th century as a sheep-raising centre, Tamworth was officially incorporated as a city in 1946. Today, it is widely recognized as the "Country Music Capital of Australia," hosting the annual Tamworth Country Music Festival, a major 11-day event that began in 1973 and attracts over 65,000 attendees. The festival features the Golden Guitar Awards, regarded as the Australian equivalent of the Country Music Association Awards, and the Australian Country Music Hall of Fame is located in the city.
Beyond its music heritage, Tamworth serves as headquarters for three major Australian equine organizations and hosts various horse-related competitions. The city offers several cultural and recreational attractions including the Capitol Theatre, Tamworth Regional Gallery, Tamworth Marsupial Park, Railway Museum, Powerstation Museum, and Motorcycle Museum, along with botanical gardens and a farmers market.