ROCKHAMPTON YOUTH CONNECT TO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

An outdoor concert in Rockhampton set to unleash the power of six local bands is part of a statewide drive to help young Queenslanders establish a career in the music industry.

Arts Minister Rod Welford said RockFest 07, on April 21, would be a highlight of A-Venue, a State Government program enabling young musicians across the state to expand music career opportunities within their local communities.

“Since 2004, A-Venue has provided $200,000 in support annually across five regions – Rockhampton, Townsville, Cairns, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast – to help up-and-coming bands to make it in the music business,” Mr Welford said.

Rockfest 07, staged by the Rockhampton City Council during National Youth Week, features ARIA-winning headliners Youth Group supported by six popular local bands – Falling for Indie, The Silence, Enlightened by Darkness, Water Junkee Manifesto, The Short Fall and Ellington – all of whom have been involved with A-Venue for two years.

“A-Venue’s training and development opportunities in the music industry are clearly paying off for these Rockhampton bands as they achieve success both locally and beyond,” said Mr Welford.

“RockFest is now the largest annual rock music event in Central Queensland with last year’s event drawing a 4000-strong crowd and giving local bands unprecedented levels of media coverage, radio airplay and opportunities to perform alongside a national rock act.”

A-Venue, delivered with the Rockhampton City Council, fosters partnerships with music and media and assists young people with access to music production facilities.

Recent A-Venue initiatives for Rockhampton to be further developed in 2007 include a compilation CD featuring 12 young artists, establishing a regional touring circuit, and a touring showcase for the region’s school bands.

Mr Welford said the success of the A-Venue program in Rockhampton mirrored that of the other four regions, with announcements of their 2007 programs to follow shortly.

A-Venue offers opportunities for young Queensland musicians, including performing at the Big Day Out and Schoolies Week on the Gold Coast, attending the annual Big Sound music conference in Brisbane and in-depth mentor programs with established musicians.

This year’s RockFest supports Camp Quality via gold coin donations at the door.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz on 3237 1000 or 0419 734 985