Festival of Arts program heats up

It's been 22 years in the making and that’s why Mackay Regional Council’s 2009 Festival of Arts, from July 11-26, is destined to be a raging success.

From artistic workshops and short films to dance parties and high-profile performances, Mayor Col Meng has dubbed this year’s program as “the most exciting in regional Queensland”.

“This celebration of the arts will be an inspiring display of talent and creativity with a strong focus on spreading the festivities far and wide to make the most of our local attractions and assets,” he said.

“Performances and projects will take place in Sarina, the Pioneer Valley and Mackay to encourage people to explore and rediscover the full extent of our region.”

“This year’s festival is all about linking artists, communities and visitors together with a fanfare of exciting artistic events.”

Cr Meng said the program was designed with the theme Deep Heart Arts in mind.

“Festival organisers have tailored this program to touch audience members’ hearts and celebrate the wonderful treasures of food and artistic talent we have here in abundance,” he said.

Major program highlights include:

Festival opening night: Jimmy Barnes concert from 8pm at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) – Saturday, July 11
Sarina World Music Concert at Grasstree Beach – Sunday, July 12
Bollywood Dance Party at Queens Park – Friday, July 17
The White Party at the MECC – Saturday, July 18
Divine Kitchen Concert at Greenmount Homestead – Sunday, July 19
In the Bin Short Film Festival at Pinnacle’s Cricket Ground and Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens – Tuesday, July 21 and Thursday, July 23 (respectively)
G&S Engineering Food and Wine Day at Queens Park – Saturday, July 25
Festival Club at the MECC featuring Girls, Girls, Girls and the Robbie Williams Experience – Saturday, July 25
Palm Avenue Long Table dinner at Queens Park – Sunday, July 26

Cr Meng said this diverse program was made possible with support from our business and arts communities.

“Events such as these not only promote and encourage the cultural and artistic talent we have in abundance within our community, they also enhance our region’s strong sense of community,” he said.

“I hope you enjoy this festival as much as we will enjoy delivering it to you.” The 2009 Festival of Arts program will be available on the website from Friday, May 29.

Contact: Penne Kaddatz

Phone: 1300 622 529