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Queensland celebrates the state’s top contemporary musicians

In a celebration of Queensland’s diverse and talented contemporary music industry, the 2017 Queensland Music Awards held tonight (27 March) recognised local emerging talent and honoured the state’s trail blazers.

Representing the Premier and Minister for the Arts Annastasia Palaszczuk at the awards, Employment Minister and Member for Brisbane Central Grace Grace said Queensland’s contemporary music industry was vital to the state’s vibrancy, with the awards shining a light on Queensland’s talented artists.

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to developing and growing contemporary music in Queensland by investing in the industry, supporting career development opportunities, and celebrating the state’s musicians,” Ms Grace said.

“This year’s Queensland Music Awards celebrated the incredible talents of Carol Lloyd and Ritchie Yorke, whom both passed away early this year, with a tribute by george.

“Carol was passionate about encouraging the next generation of musicians and an inspiration to many, and Brisbane-born music journalist and author Ritchie Yorke championed local artists - they have both left a significant legacy and will be greatly missed.”

Ms Grace also congratulated Ash Kerley of two-piece band Marville for taking out the 2017 Billy Thorpe Scholarship, acknowledging her as a rising star making her mark through incredible music and support for young women in the rock industry.

“I am delighted that the Billy Thorpe Scholarship will enable Ash and her band Marville to take their music and energy to the corners of the state with a planned a regional tour,” Ms Grace said.

“The Billy Thorpe Scholarship, named in honour of great Australian rock musician Billy Thorpe, supports Queensland’s emerging musicians and their future success, and is critical to nurturing our local contemporary music scene.

“I congratulate all the finalists who were nominated as part of this year’s awards across all 24 categories, there is a great diversity and depth of contemporary music talent across the state.”

The Queensland Government supports QMusic, and Queensland’s contemporary music industry through its many programs and initiatives, including BIGSOUND.

All the winning songs from the 2017 Queensland Music Awards are featured online at www.queenslandmusicawards.com.au