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| Music City Awards |
This prestigious recognition underscores QMF’s ability to transform Queensland’s stunning landscapes into world-class cultural destinations. The award also highlights the state’s rich heritage and natural beauty, particularly through Between the Tides, which took place at Cape Hillsborough National Park. The event was held in collaboration with the Yuwi People, Traditional Owners of the land, and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS), offering an unforgettable celebration of First Nations culture, music, and the breathtaking natural surroundings.
A Celebration of Culture, Nature, and Music
The Between the Tides festival in 2023 was a landmark event that united music lovers with Queensland’s natural beauty and deep cultural heritage. The festival, set against the backdrop of Cape Hillsborough’s pristine beaches and rainforest-covered headlands, brought together some of Australia's most iconic musicians, including Busby Marou, Christine Anu, and Josh Pyke, performing in an intimate, open-air setting. This unique concert experience honoured the Yuwi People’s land while showcasing the power of music to bridge cultures and connect communities.
Daryl Raven, CEO of QMF, expressed immense pride in the global recognition of their work:
"This award highlights the transformative power of music to unite people with the stories and spirit of place. Between the Tides 2023 seamlessly wove together the ancient wisdom of the Yuwi People, the natural beauty of Cape Hillsborough National Park, and the universal language of music to create an experience that deeply touched everyone involved," said Raven.
He also took the opportunity to thank QMF’s key partners, including the Queensland State Government, Mackay Regional Council, and the Yuwi People, whose collaboration made the event possible. Raven added, “Together, we are proud to champion Queensland as a global leader in regenerative tourism and cultural sustainability.”
A Milestone Achievement
The Between the Tides project’s international success is further bolstered by its recent win of silver at the Queensland Tourism Awards, further cementing QMF’s reputation as an innovator in eco-conscious and culturally respectful tourism.
Arts Minister John-Paul Langbroek congratulated QMF for its Music Cities Award and for creating an event that drives both local engagement and cultural tourism:
“Between the Tides engages local Queenslanders and drives cultural tourism through once-in-a-lifetime live music performances set against the iconic backdrop of Cape Hillsborough National Park,” said Minister Langbroek. “The Queensland Government is proud to support QMF and our state’s vibrant arts and cultural scene to create more to see and do, while providing local jobs for Queenslanders.”
The Music Cities Awards, an international competition, celebrate initiatives that leverage music to enhance tourism, attract investment, and foster community development. This year, 36 projects from 19 countries competed for the coveted awards. QMF’s Between the Tides was praised for its innovation and community impact, as well as its sustainable approach that honours both Queensland’s natural assets and First Nations cultures.
Queensland’s Musical Landscape
Mackay’s Member of Parliament, Nigel Dalton, also lauded QMF’s achievement, noting the lasting impact of Between the Tides on regional tourism:
"Between the Tides has set a new benchmark for authentic concert experiences at idyllic regional Queensland locations,” said Mr Dalton. “The Queensland Government is committed to backing our music industry with a $20 million, three-year investment into music trails that showcase diverse parts of Queensland. The Reef Trail has clearly been a highlight, aligning perfectly with the Government’s focus on creating immersive eco-tourism experiences that promote conservation and give people a real connection to the environment."
Mayor Greg Williamson of the Mackay Regional Council also expressed pride in hosting the event, highlighting the unique cultural value it brought to the region:
“This is a beautiful and unique event that invites both locals and travellers to experience legends of the music industry perform on Yuwi country. We are proud to support this event through the Mackay Region Events and Conferences Attraction program, which aims to build tourism and economic opportunities for our region,” Mayor Williamson said.
He also congratulated QMF on receiving the well-deserved accolade, recognising the event’s significance not only for the local community but for Queensland’s broader cultural and tourism landscape.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As QMF celebrates its award, plans are already underway for the next Between the Tides festival, which will return in 2025. Artist, location, and date announcements are expected in early January 2025. QMF’s commitment to sustainability and cultural stewardship ensures that each event leaves a positive legacy, both for the people involved and the environment they celebrate.
For more information about QMF’s award-winning initiatives and updates on Between the Tides 2025, visit www.qmf.org.au.
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