Golden Guitar winner gives up grog, gets 'new lease on life'

Tom Wolfe, a winner of the Golden Guitar award for the fifth time at the 2026 awards, announced he has been sober for nine months. He expressed pride in his decision, stating he feels like he has a new lease on life. Six months later, Wolfe claimed music had never been better for him, noting improvements in his singing, playing, and personal life.

He believes his honesty about his sobriety has played a role in the growth and connection of his music. Wolfe's band, the Wolfe Brothers, have won a total of 15 Golden Guitar Awards over seven albums. At the awards, the duo took five awards, including Album of the Year. Despite being surrounded by alcohol in his work, Wolfe has let go of it, citing its impact on his mental health.

He credits Alcoholics Anonymous for his support and mentions the importance of supportive people in his recovery. Shanna Whan, founder of Sober in the Country, noted the stigma surrounding alcohol-free lifestyles in rural Australia. She highlighted the power of a high-profile musician like Wolfe opening up about his sobriety, stating it can be a pivotal moment for others struggling with alcohol.

Whan believes socialization in rural areas often relies on alcohol, leading to exclusion and isolation, and advocates for including and catering to everyone, not just those who drink.