Much-respected bush balladeer remembered

29 September 2023

In a moving presentation dedicated to the work of the late Ted Thompson, Southern Downs Councillor Marco Gliori acknowledged him as a leader among the many musicians and entertainers who volunteer to attend and perform at community gatherings across the Southern Downs.

“As well as being a proud and much-loved family man, the late Ted Thompson’s contribution to our local Arts and Culture Community should not be underestimated. His genre was country music and all things Australian, and his passion for sharing his talents has left an enduring legacy,” Councillor Gliori said.

“Ted Thompson was the proverbial campfire crooner, a much-respected bush balladeer, a yarn-spinner, a joke teller and a comedian.

“Ted’s legacy will extend far beyond those of us in this community who were lucky enough to know him as the jovial larrikin he was.

“When Ted Thompson walked into a festival, a venue, a pub, a campsite, his grin was infectious, his welcome always warm and hearty.

“Ted’s character was an honest reflection of the knockabout, irreverent attitude that saw those of his generation negotiate and survive tough times and hard yakka.

For several generations, Ted volunteered his music and songs at Akooroomak, The Oaks, Churches of Christ, Killarney, Allora Homestead, The Pensioners League, our district hospitals, Bluecare, Fundraising Morning Teas and Concerts, and various other venues and functions across the Southern Downs.

Ted performed, judged, and compered at Country Music Festivals far and wide, and was a legend in his own right, winning several hundred singing and performance trophies, and appearing alongside Slim Dusty on several occasions at the Warwick Town Hall.

The Thompson family accepted Ted’s award posthumously at the Ordinary Council Meeting on 27 September 2023.

Council’s Volunteer Recognition Program honours local volunteers, providing well-deserved recognition to the volunteer community and their deep dedication to making Southern Downs a great place to live, work, play and stay.

Below: Councillors and the Thompson family in attendance at the Volunteer Recognition Morning Tea