2025 Australian Festival of Chamber Music Opening Night Concert

Representing the Premier, Member for Thuringowa, Ms Natalie Marr MP; Representing the Minister for Education and the Arts, Assistant Minister for Community Safety, Defence Industry, Veterans and North Queensland, Mrs Janelle Poole MP; Councillor Liam Mooney; Australian Festival of Chamber Music Chair Ms Mary Jo Capps AM; Executive Director, Dr Ricardo Peach, Artistic Director Mr Jack Liebeck and musicians; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I too begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the lands and waters around Townsville and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people here tonight.

Graeme and I are delighted to join you all this evening, for the first exciting concert in this year’s Australian Festival of Chamber Music.

In my role as Patron, and as a great lover of classical music, it is so uplifting to see how this cherished annual event not only brings exceptional music to North Queensland, but also delivers immense joy to so many local, interstate and international attendees.

In his 4^th year as Artistic Director, and as a world-renowned violinist himself, Mr Jack Liebeck has created a diverse festival that really has something for everyone, and with the theme of “Reawaken!” it is a celebration of how chamber music has the power to reach us in unique ways, whether we are seasoned afficionados or first-timers.

From more formal concerts such as tonight’s, to free events in the park…from Franz Schubert of the 1800s to SpongeBob Square Pants of the 2000s…the AFCM is designed to be inclusive—with performances in various locations, and appealing to all ages.

It truly showcases the enormous capability that such intimate, nuanced music has, to entertain, enthral and lift our spirits.

The next nine days will bring us the talents of musicians from near and far—spearheaded by the Australian String Quartet, as quartet-in-residence—and highlighting the incredible prowess of Queensland, Australian and international performers and soloists.

The AFCM also has a valuable charter to share the wisdom and expertise of its professional musicians; and through the Pathways programme, young and rising stars are given the opportunity to further develop their skills.

Yet while the festival has grown each year since its inception in 1991, it has remained true to its foundational platform of innovation and collaboration—which underpin the energy of small ensemble performances.

For this, we must thank the foundational visionaries, Professor Ray Golding and inaugural Artistic Director, Theodore Kuchar, and also acknowledge the tremendous support of the people of Townsville, who have seen the AFCM develop over many years. While I know you are sad to see the festival move home, I know this city has been crucial to its success, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

I congratulate Jack Liebeck; the Board, and the entire AFCM executive and team, as well as all volunteers, donors, partners and supporters whose outstanding generosity ensures an event of this scope, scale and complexity can take place.

And, of course, I commend our wonderful musicians, who bring us the music. I am very much looking forward to hearing tonight’s performances, as well as those in tomorrow night’s Governor’s Gala.

But for now, it is my immense pleasure to declare the 2025 Australian Festival of Chamber Music officially open.