Vale: Australian country music manager David 'Woody' Woodward

David Woodward, the much-loved Australian country music manager and executive, has died from a heart attack. He turned 40 in January.

TMN understands he passed away at home on Monday (June 1), with news of his death leaving family, friends and colleagues across the music business devastated.

Woodward was better known in music industry circles as 'Woody', a staunch supporter of the country music genre and the Australian artists who create it.

Heavily involved with the Tamworth Country Music Festival and Golden Guitar Awards, Woodward also had a distinguished career as an artist manager.

Among the acts privileged to call 'Woody' their "manager and mate" over the years were Shannon Noll, Beccy Cole and country music great John Williamson.

Woodward's family have published a statement on Facebook, saying they plan to share more details for a celebration of Woodward's life at a later date.

"It's with broken hearts that the Woodward family grieve the sudden loss of their son, brother, uncle and friend, David Woodward. Thank you for the messages, thoughts and prayers."

Williamson also shared a tribute to Woodward on his social media on Monday night.

"Tamworth and the music industry has lost a great man today," Williamson said. "My manager David aka ‘Woody’ passed away this morning from a heart attack.

"He was a vibrant and positive young soul of 40 years. We will miss his encouragement but most of all his company. My thoughts and love go out to his dear family and many, many friends."