One of the most popular country and western artists to come out of Central Queensland was the left handed guitarist Jim Ferricks.

Born in Rockhamption in 1922, the family lived in Quay Street, Depot Hill. At the age of twelve, Jim contracted polio which left him with a shrunken calf.

He got his first guitar in 1937, being interested in hill-billy music, which was a new sound becoming increasingly popular, and he soon began to copy the songs he heard.

By the time war broke out in 1939, Jim had mastered his guitar and was locally entertaining where-ever he could.

He immediately got himself involved in the Red Cross Fundraising activities for the Armed Forces, and was constantly being called upon to entertain in troop concerts. He also joined the Lakes Creek Concert Party. Jim did not marry until 1947.

At this time two young fellows had appeared on the scene . . . Allan Swanson and Charlie Bellert . . . all three sometimes working at the same venue. Allan and Charlie both went on to make quite a name for themselves in country music.

A young female also appeared on the scene, Joan Ridgway. Jim saw her potential and the pair soon teamed up, becoming the most popular artists of the time both in solo and duo acts.

Jim won the Amateur Hour in 1947. Dick Fair said at the time that Jim was the first left handed guitarist he had seen, let alone perform on Amateur Hour. Joan won the Amateur Hour in 1948, and soon after the Joan Ridgway Variety Show appeared on the road. Jim was right there with her as number one support act as well as with their duo act.

Jim retired in 1982 due to ill health and sadly departed this world in February 6th, 1994 at Rockhampton.

Jim’s shirt from 1950 is now at the Hall of Fame, Yandina.

Jim Ferricks received the Queensland Award of Recognition in Country Music on Saturday, 9th May, 1998 (Post Honours).

Ó 7th July, 2001 by Ian Hands.