JAMES BLUNDELL SINGS IN COMMUNITY HARMONY

Nine-time Golden Guitar winner James Blundell will sing the Australian national anthem before the Roar Against Racism match between Queensland Roar FC and SuperSport United on 1 July at Suncorp Stadium.

Multiculturalism Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said she was delighted that one of Australia’s leading country singers would lend the campaign his voice to promote the acceptance of diversity.

“Let’s hope he can play football as well as he sings because he will also star in the celebrity curtain raiser match held before the main game,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“A family friendly program of entertainment will begin on the Suncorp Stadium concourse at 1pm on July 1 with Carnivale style music, dance, stalls and giveaways.

“Musicians and performers that feature at the Queensland Multicultural Festival will also entertain patrons during half time.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said this match was the first major event in the Queensland Roars Against Racism campaign launched by Premier Peter Beattie during his official reception in Johannesburg on 21 March.

“The campaign is a three year partnership between Multicultural Affairs Queensland and the Queensland Roar FC that aims to send positive messages in support of harmony and social cohesion.”

Mr Blundell said he was excited to be involved with the campaign and the positive anti-racism messages.

"It is so important that as Queenslanders we stand up against racial behaviour. It is up to everyone whether directly affected or not to say this is not on,” Mr Blundell said.

"I am making my stand in support of this campaign to encourage others to join me and am really honoured to sing our country's anthem on the day."

During the next three years a range of events and activities will be staged to challenge racist attitudes, stamp out intolerance and make it clear there is no room for racism in Queensland.

Tickets on sale at Ticketek www.ticketek.com.au

For more information visit www.multicultural.qld.gov.au

ENDS

Media contact: Karla Steen 3336 8004 or Lisa Gilby 3336 8002