CMC set to rock QLD for three more years

Published Friday, 24 March, 2017 at 08:44 AM

Minister for Education and Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Commonwealth Games
The Honourable Kate Jones

Queensland has cemented its reputation as the nation’s home of country music with Acting Tourism and Major Events Minister, Steven Miles today announcing CMC Rocks QLD has been secured for another three years.

Mr Miles said CMC Rocks QLD was the biggest international country and roots festival in the Southern Hemisphere and had grown significantly following its move to Queensland in 2015.

“CMC Rocks has become a major visitor drawcard with this year’s event a sell-out, following record attendance of more than 13,000 last year,” he said.

"I'm excited to see the Dixie Chicks on Sunday night and I look forward to going to CMC for the next three years and hopefully longer.

“Securing major events like CMC Rocks is a major coup for Queensland, delivering a valuable boost to our tourism economy and showcasing the state through global broadcasts.

“Queensland’s country music credentials are underlined by the state’s growing calendar of music events including the Broadbeach Country Music Festival, Gympie Music Muster and the CMC Music Awards.”

Mr Miles said the Queensland Government’s renewed support through Tourism and Events Queensland in partnership with Ipswich City Council, will further strengthen Queensland’s music event offering.

“Attracting high profile international and local talent to Queensland will ensure the event continues to attract record crowds and reinforces Queensland’s reputation as a premier event destination.”

Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale said today’s announcement confirms the city’s position as the undisputed home of CMC Rocks.

“This festival puts Ipswich and Queensland on the map in terms of world-class entertainment and international draw cards,” Cr Pisasale said.

“CMC Rocks 2016 boosted the Ipswich economy to the tune of more than $10 million and major events and tourism continue to be key drivers for the city and wider south-east region.”

Event promoter, Rob Potts said: "We are thrilled to call Queensland the home of CMC Rocks for another three years. Since moving to Queensland three years ago, we've seen the festival continue to grow, reaching capacity crowds in both 2016 and 2017, and now firmly established as the biggest international country and roots festival in the Southern Hemisphere. We look forward to continuing to bring the biggest and best local and international country music artists to Willowbank into 2020 and beyond."

The 2017 CMC Rocks QLD is in association with the Country Music Awards and is celebrating its 10th year with an impressive line-up of international acts at Willowbank Raceway, Ipswich on 24-26 March 2017. The exceptional line-up of country music superstars includes the Dixie Chicks, Little Big Town, Kip Moore, Morgan Evans and The McClymonts.

For more information visit www.cmcrocks.com.

Media contact: Emma Clarey - 0437 069 516