Palaszczuk Govt secures blockbuster music line-up for Origin 1

A world-class line-up of Australian musicians will rock Townsville ahead of next week’s historic State of Origin match, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced.

Birds of Tokyo, Jessica Mauboy and Busby Marou will perform in the Fan Zone, bringing a party atmosphere to Townsville in the hours leading up to kick-off.

Rebuilding Queensland’s tourism industry is an important part of the Palaszczuk Government’s economic recovery plan.

The Premier said securing three of Australia’s top musical acts would deliver strong economic benefits for tourism and hospitality businesses in the region.

“World class events inject millions of dollars into our economy and support local jobs,” the Premier said.

“This is one of the best line-ups ever assembled in Townsville.

“When we secured this historic State of Origin for Townsville, we said we would make it into so much more than just a game of football and that’s exactly what we are doing.

“We want to make this week one that North Queenslanders will never forget.

“By working closely with Townsville City Council, we’ve secured three of Australia’s best acts and we’re ensuring the Fan Zone will give every supporter the chance to make a day of it and soak up the atmosphere.

“Tickets sold out in less than an hour. This proves that footy fans from across Australia are keen to travel to Townsville to experience rugby league heartland for themselves.

“We know the game itself will inject $7 million into the local economy. By securing other events like this, we’re ensuring even more money flows into local businesses, helping to rebuild the North Queensland economy.”

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said this line-up of musicians will give fans even more reason to come into the city early, eat at the restaurants and cafes, see The Strand and enjoy the entertainment.

“Already hotels in the CBD and on Magnetic Island have seen a huge increase in demand which is great news, but now we want to ensure other sectors of the economy also feel the benefit.

“And what better way to promote a great North Queensland getaway than combining a State of Origin game, a world-class line-up of music and a visit to beautiful Magnetic Island.”

Member for Mundingburra Les Walker said the said the Origin Live Rocks Townsville concert, coupled with the game on Wednesday night would deliver a huge boost to North Queensland’s tourism economy.

“Businesses throughout the city will be given a shot in the arm from the State of Origin game as well as this musical line-up and the Fan Zone,” he said.

“It’s because of Queensland’s COVID response that we can put events like this on which will help showcase Townsville to a huge audience.”

Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said the streets of Townsville would come alive on Wednesday night.

“The atmosphere in the city, with the game and these great music acts will be fantastic,” he said.

“This is why the Palaszczuk Government built Queensland Country Stadium to draw big events to help boost our economy.”

Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said all the pieces were falling into place for an event like no other.

“We’re no stranger to putting on a show in Townsville and our events season is incomparable thanks to our incredible winter weather and beautiful location, but State of Origin will take our city to the next level,” Cr Hill said.

“To not only secure the first State of Origin game to be held in northern Australia but pull it off in little more than a week with such an impressive line-up of live music and events across several locations is an outstanding feat.”

Busby Marou singer and guitarist Thomas Busby said he looked forward to playing to a packed out crowed ahead of the Origin opener in Townsville.

"Queenslander! It’s great to be part of the great game in the heartland of Rugby League,” he said.

ARIA award winning artist Jessica Mauboy said she was excited to perform in North Queensland.

“Thank you Townsville for inviting me to be a part of a momentous night of entertainment, in what will be a historic State of Origin match,” she said.

“It is truly an honour to perform for you all and I can’t wait to get back on stage and perform some fan favourites.

“I’m so excited to share the stage with an incredible line up of artists, in what will be an amazing night of live music and sport.”

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Media contact:
Jack Harbour (Premier) 0419 620 447
Chris Lees (Member for Townsville) 0434 859 940