The popular event was held at SCCMA’s ‘spiritual home’’ at Kembla Heights Community Hall over the last two years.

But all the ingredients that have made the talent quest such a rousing success for 19 years still remain and organisers expect big crowds to show up to see some talented country performers.

As in previous years, the quest wraps up on the Saturday (July 15) night with the winners' concert.

‘’When you consider there is more than $4000 in awards and prizes to be won, it's no surprise we get a lot of interest in the talent quest,’’ a SCCMA spokeswoman said.

The quest, which has attracted entries from all over Australia, has a number of categories, including junior vocal, junior gospel, senior gospel and senior female.

Country rock, open songwriting and duo group also feature this year.

The event is part of the South Coast Country Music Association’s overall aim to foster young talent and to promote country music through package shows and social events.

Many of its artists and musicians have gone on to become professionals.

SCCMA was formed by Betty and Kevin Reiman in 1971 at Dapto before moving to Dunmore in 1978 and then to Mt Kembla in 1982.

For talent quest details visit www.sccma.com.au or its Facebook page.