We are incredibly grateful to the Hannan Mason Foundation for their support as our inaugural presenting sponsor. Their generosity plays a vital role in making this festival possible and in ensuring that world-class music continues to thrive in our region. Their commitment to the arts across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions is both significant and deeply valued.

Across this weekend, you will experience performances that are intimate, immediate, and deeply engaging—music heard not at a distance, but up close, in a way that is both powerful and personal. This is the kind of experience many would normally travel for, and we are proud to share it here with our community. This year’s festival welcomes an outstanding group of artists, including Ensemble Q and Ed Le Brocq, the return of Camerata – Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra, the Lyrebird Trio, alongside leading artists Doretta Balkizas and Daniel de Borah. Across the weekend, these artists present programs that we hope will surprise, move, and stay with you long after the final note.

Alongside these concert experiences, the festival continues to invest in the next generation of musicians. Through masterclasses, workshops, and scholarships, we are creating meaningful opportunities for young artists to learn, connect, and be inspired. We are pleased to present both the inaugural Winchester Foundation Scholarship and the third annual Anne Thompson Memorial Scholarship. The Winchester Foundation Scholarship supports students and teachers from geographically remote communities to attend and engage with the festival, while the Anne Thompson Memorial Scholarship supports young local pianists in their development and lifelong connection to music. Seeing the growth of these young musicians each year remains one of the most rewarding aspects of the festival.

Our ongoing relationship with the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music continues to be an essential part of the festival’s success, and we are sincerely grateful for their support. And of course, none of this would be possible without our incredible volunteer committee, whose dedication keeps everything running behind the scenes.

Most importantly, thank you to you—our audience. Your support and curiosity are what bring this festival to life and allow it to continue growing as a truly special cultural experience in our region. I hope you enjoy a wonderful weekend of discovery, inspiration, and exceptional music.

Yours in music,

Glenn