BLOCKBUSTER SUMMER AT THE CULTURAL CENTRE

Arts Minister Rod Welford has encouraged Queenslanders to make the most of the world-class arts and cultural facilities at their doorstep this summer, launching a new Cultural Centre booklet today.

Mr Welford said the colourful brochure, Cultural Centre: Summer in Brisbane 2007/08, showcases all that’s on offer at the South Bank precinct during the holiday season.

“The redeveloped Cultural Centre is a one-stop lifestyle destination offering unique performance, exhibition, shopping and dining experiences,” Mr Welford said.

“In terms of premier cultural tourism destinations, this is the jewel in Queensland’s crown.

“Boasting Australia’s largest modern art gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA), the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Art Gallery, Queensland Museum South Bank and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, the Cultural Centre has attracted international praise and national awards for its accessibility, architecture and collections.

“It is now 12 months since the redevelopment of the Cultural Centre was completed, with the State Library celebrating a year in its award-winning new building on Sunday (25 November) and GoMA celebrating its first birthday next week (1 December).

“The popularity of the redevelopments is clear – more than 3,441,500 people have visited the Cultural Centre since December last year.”

Mr Welford said the Cultural Centre was offering something for everyone this summer.

“GoMA is presenting Australia’s first major Andy Warhol retrospective, featuring more than 300 art works by this pivotal figure of contemporary Pop culture,” he said.

“The Phantom of the Opera is living up to its reputation as the world’s most popular musical, with the first two weeks of its season at QPAC already sold out.

“Activities for children and families at the State Library and Queensland Museum range from puppet shows and workshops to exhibitions, games and summer clubs.”

To pick up a copy of the Cultural Centre: Summer in Brisbane 2007/08 brochure, visit your nearest tourist information booth, hotel, brochure stand or www.ourbrisbane.com.au

Media contact: Emma Clarey or Marnie Stitz on 3237 1000