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Friday, May 15, 2026

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Friday, May 8 at the Sunrise Banquet Hall located in the Tundra Oil & Gas Place saw an excited crowd waiting for an incredible concert. An opportunity to watch musicians of this caliber rarely comes to a town this size. Amanda Brooks from the Virden Community Chamber of Commerce welcomed everyone and thanked local sponsors for their generous donations. Representatives of the YWCA Westman were on hand to discuss the fundraising efforts for the Women’s Campus Project. There wasn’t a bad seat in the house, thanks to the organizers’ efforts. It was a night of pure enjoyment.

Duncan Toombs, who’s singing talent was discovered in 2024 on an Australian Voice show was the start of this unbelievable night. Duncan is a country storyteller who reached out to the audience with a sense of humour and his down-home way. His opening rendition of ‘Help Me Make It Through the Night’ was a crowd favourite and broke the ice. He then sang both familiar songs and then a couple of his own compositions that reflected his background. After his set, Duncan continued to play with the band for the remainder of the evening.

Alberta born Dallas Alexander followed up with his unique Outlaw Country style. Dallas is a Metis Canadian, former Tier 1 Elite Sniper with over 16 years of experience in the Canadian Armed Forces. His stage presence pulled his combat and military background front and centre. ‘Country Boy Dream’ had members of the audience realizing that dreams don’t have to be elaborate to make you happy. His songs expressed some hard values that were backed up by his confident manner both on and off the stage. While previously unknown to some of the crowd, his performance will be remembered for his straightforward approach to life.

The wait for Gord Bamford was well worth it. He followed up with an array of songs that had the crowd toe tapping and swaying to the music. ‘Blame it on That Red Dress’, ‘Farm Girl Strong’ and ‘Cowboys Were Kings’ were just a few of the songs the crowd was entertained by. The dance floor, in front of the stage, started to fill with ‘Is It Friday Yet’ and interaction with the crowd made this night seem like a small town social.

At one point Gord referred to the evening being like a house party. ‘Drinkin’ Buddy’ is one song that the crowd demands at almost venue and it was met with raised glasses. There was no intermission and the band kept us on the edge of our seats wanting more of Gord Bamford’s familiar lyrics. Gord Bamford is an artist who doesn’t disappoint and one I strongly recommend going to see when given the chance.

He described his last birthday party, where his wife had arranged a party bus to take them to the festivities at Ponoka Stampede Grounds. While enroute, Gord received a call from Terri Clark that told him his Bucket list wish had come true and he will be performing at the Grande Ole Opry in October 2026. Congratulations to a well deserving artist.

When interviewed after the show, Gord removed any doubt that he was anything but a country boy who has an exceptional talent that he shares with his audience. When asked about band members performing with him, Gord explained “the way to keep the same band together is continuous bookings, keep them busy and paid”. By performing across the country in a number of different locales the band members stay together instead of seeking other work. The newest member of Gord’s band is Brendan Lyons who has been with him over 5 years. Brendan had a fan club of local relatives and friends from the Virden area attend. Gord recognized for their hard work. On show days, they start setup about 8 hours before the event and tear down may not be completed for another 3 hours after. Then it is load up and his bus driver delivers them to the next location while they rest for the next show.

The Gord Bamford Foundation is passionate about supporting youth. As a foundation for providing fund for initiatives that include or involve music, education, health care, sports, and multi-use facilities that benefit youth across Canada.