Outback Music Trail launched in Queensland

The Queensland Music Trail has been launched with State Government funding of $250,000 and will see musicians travel through outback Queensland in June and July for the very first trail.

The Outback Trail’s first stop is Opera at Jimbour, which will fill heritage-listed Jimbour Homestead with glorious arias and chamber symphonies from 25th – 27th June, followed by bespoke chamber concert Music for Stargazing at the Cosmos Centre in Charleville from 29th–30th June.

The trail continues with immersive musical experience Echoes In the Dust in Quilpie from 1st–2nd July and kicked-back weekend performances for Oasis Afternoons in Windorah from 3rd–4th July.

Following its first trail journey, Queensland Music Trails will continue to grow and expand with more regional trails designed to drive domestic tourism and highlight local music and artists over the next five years.

Queensland Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch notes “the arts and cultural sector was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, and this project is an example of how our Government is supporting the sector as part of Queensland’s economic recovery.

“Following the impact of the global pandemic there’s never been a better time to explore our own backyard, and the outback towns of Jimbour, Charleville, Quilpie, Windorah and Birdsville will be the first to host big musical names for the Outback Music Trail.

“The $250,000 in funding was provided through our Government’s $22.5 million Arts and Cultural Recovery Package’s Spaces and Places initiative and is ensuring regional areas of our state can experience some of the best musical talent.

“Queensland Music Trails will employ over 120 artists and artworkers and is expected to generate $4.5 million in domestic tourism, stimulate economic opportunities and create new jobs.”

Joel Edmondson, Queensland Music Trails Chief Executive adds “with international borders closed, everyone in Australia is looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in their own backyard.

“The events along the first ever Outback Music Trail are a new way to get to know the diverse people and places of Outback Queensland. Nothing makes memories like seeing something totally amazing in a place you would never expect. To me, that’s the definition of adventure.”

Queensland Music Festival Ambassador Kate Miller-Heidke commented “There’s something so magical and timeless about the outback.

“It has a way of somehow making our ordinary problems seem insignificant.

“As a setting for live music bursting back to life after a tough year, it will be truly unforgettable. Get ready for a series of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, under skies full of stars!”

For more information, visit www.qldmusictrails.com