All aboard the Culture Train for Queensland Multicultural Month

Multicultural Affairs Minister Grace Grace today launched a month of multicultural celebrations throughout Queensland when the Culture Train departed from Brisbane’s Roma Street Station.

Marking the official start of Queensland Multicultural Month, the Culture Train brings together traditional and contemporary multicultural artists in Brisbane before they embark on a Statewide tour of regional Queensland locations.

“The program will deliver an exciting program of workshops, concerts and performances throughout regional Queensland, before finishing with a big celebration in Brisbane,” she said.

“It’s a great way to showcase Queensland’s multiculturalism while giving regional communities a chance to celebrate Queensland Multicultural Month.”

Culture Train performers will visit Murgon, Cherbourg, Toowoomba, Warwick, Goondiwindi, St George, Roma, Surat, Wallumbilla, Yuleba, Townsville, Rockhampton, Blackwater, Barcaldine, Longreach, Emerald and Ipswich.

“This year is the first time we have extended our biggest and best multicultural celebration from a week to an entire month,” Ms Grace said.

“It means Queenslanders will have even more opportunities to participate in events and activities that recognise and celebrate our wonderful cultural diversity.

“I can’t wait to get out and about and experience as many Queensland Multicultural Month festivities as possible – and I hope all Queenslanders will show their support for the month.

“In fact, there will be more than 60 events and activities being held across the state, including festivals and fairs, exhibitions, musical performances and workshops, open days and market days.”

Ms Grace said Queensland Multicultural Month was about recognising and appreciating the many cultures and the benefits this cultural diversity brings to our state.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have a proud and vibrant multicultural heritage, and this diversity is one of our state’s greatest strengths,” she said.

“I want encourage Queenslands to come together to experience our cultural diversity first-hand by performing, sharing, tasting, listening and learning at the huge number of events and activities taking place over the coming weeks.”

Key themes for Queensland Multicultural Month this year include the value of diversity, arts and culture, elders and storytelling.

Queensland Multicultural Month is supported by Queensland Rail, Commonwealth Bank, SBS and Access Community Services.

More information on Queensland Multicultural Month is available at: www.qld.gov.au/multiculturalmonth

Media Contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548