Music lovers are descending on Tropical North Queensland as the region sets the stage for one of Australia's most significant arts events.
Held for the first time in Cairns this year, the Australian Festival of Chamber Music (AFCM) is expected to pour more than $3 million into the local economy during a week-long showcase of global chamber music from Friday 24 July to 1 August.
Close to 80 per cent of ticket holders have travelled from interstate to experience the festival in Cairns, along with almost 15 per cent from elsewhere in Queensland.
Visitors arriving at Cairns Airport were met with live ensemble performances on Wednesday morning to celebrate the commencement of the festival, which is supported by Cairns Airport.
Cairns Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said Tropical North Queensland would provide an exceptional backdrop for AFCM’s internationally acclaimed performers.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Australian Festival of Chamber Music for its very first time in Cairns,” he said.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our destination to an engaged visitor market, many who have travelled here for a rich, cultural experience.”
The festival will feature more than 30 of Australia's finest and internationally acclaimed musicians, including 14 international artists travelling from Germany, France, Ireland, China, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Artistic Director Jack Liebeck said: "This festival is about connection – between artists, audiences and place.”
“We have extraordinary musicians from around the world gathering in one of the most beautiful locations on earth to create something truly unique. There is an intimacy and energy to AFCM that simply cannot be replicated anywhere else."
The program incorporates events at key locations across Cairns, including the Cairns Performing Arts Centre, Saint Monica’s Cathedral and over the water aboard the Spirit of Cairns.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the festival was set to deliver strong economic benefits, attracting visitors to Tropical North Queensland, contributing $3.1 million, and reinforcing the state’s position as the nation’s events capital.
“These are the kinds of events that drive our Destination 2045 vision - encouraging visitors to stay longer, experience more and support communities across Queensland, while delivering a strong boost to the state’s economy,” he said.
Tickets and more information are available at www.afcm.com.au.