30th Australian Festival of Chamber Music invites Australians to holiday in North Queensland this winter and hear extraordinary music
This is what the perfect holiday sounds like: 10 days under the famous North Queensland wintersun combined with the world's finest chamber music. Why holiday anywhere else?
Organisers of the 30th Australian Festival of Chamber Music (AFCM) which will take place in Townsville from 23 July to 1 August, are inviting Australians to head north this winter and experience a truly world class music event.
A joyous 10-day celebration of music curated by internationally acclaimed Artistic Director, Kathryn Stott, the AFCM has forged a stunning international reputation as one of the best chamber music events in the world. This year's event features 133 works, 112 composers, four world premieres and five Australian premieres. It stars more than 40 Australian musicians, 15 in their AFCM debut, as well as three ensembles including the Goldner String Quartet in their 25th anniversary year, and three local groups including the acclaimed Dancenorth.
AFCM has partnered with SeaLink and Brilliant Travels to deliver three holiday packages priced from $380 per person and each featuring three nights accommodation and three concerts. Additional nights, extra concerts, day tours and more can be added, including the popular Magnetic Island concerts. The four AFCM holiday package hotels are quality properties in fabulous locations including The Ville Resort – Casino, Rydges Southbank, The Park Regis Anchorage and The Grand Chancellor.
Visitors can choose from an Opening Weekend, Closing Weekend or mid-week Sunset package:
Ø Australian Festival of Chamber Music Opening Weekend Extravaganza: 23-26 July 2021
A hugely popular package with three favourite concerts included: the Festival Opening Night concert on Friday 23 July, Saturday morning's Concert Conversations 1 and the Governor's Gala concert featuring the world premiere and AFCM commission of Goldner Variations 'Ode to Joy' on 24 July. Priced from $456 per person twin share, less for AFCM Friends.
Ø Australian Festival of Chamber Music Sunset Spectacular: 27-30 July
The perfect package for newcomers or those keen to relax and unwind in the winter warmth. This package includes three nights' accommodation and three 5pm Sunset Series concerts including Brilliant Baroque on 27 July and the Australian premiere of Immortal Beloved on 28 July. Priced from $380 per person twin share, less for AFCM Friends.
Ø Australian Festival of Chamber Music Closing Weekend Indulgence: 30 July – 2 August
Soak up the exuberance of the festival's closing weekend with this package that includes Friday night's Wild Spirit concert, the final Concert Conversations on Saturday morning and the hugely entertaining Festival Farewell concert on Saturday evening, 31 July. Priced from $440 per person twin share, less for AFCM Friends.
THEN, STAY A LITTLE LONGER AND SEE MORE OF NORTH QUEENSLAND!
AFCM visitors are also being encouraged to stay a little longer and see more of stunning North Queensland, to visit the Atherton Tablelands, Mission Beach, Magnetic Island and Charters Towers.
"Townsville is surrounded by beautiful countryside and amazing sights like the Atherton Tablelands, Paronella Park and the gold mining town of Charters Towers. We want to encourage Festival patrons to add some extra days to their visit - either before or after the Festival - and explore more of this magnificent region," said AFCM Executive Director, Ricardo Peach.
"North Queensland is rich in natural attractions, history and hospitality. The AFCM has partnered with Travel Associates Townsville and SeaLink Queensland to offer Festival visitors some wonderful touring opportunities."
MISSION BEACH: 3 NIGHT SELF-DRIVE – Castaways Beach Resort
The Cassowary Coast just 3 hours north of Townsville is a hidden piece of paradise with its tropical rainforests, secluded beaches, and the dreamy, laid-back village of Mission Beach at its heart. Package includes 4 days car hire, 3 nights staying at Castaways Resort in Mission Beach, positioned absolute beachfront, entry into the majestical Paronella Park and a Frankland Islands day tour. Priced from $698 per person, twin-share
To book call Travel Associates Townsville on 1300 230 176
MAGNETIC ISLAND: 2 OR 3 NIGHT STAYS - Two Night Island Discovery package
Escape and unwind on secluded palm-fringed beaches, explore the rugged walking trails and spectacular lookouts, or enjoy a weekend of adventure and water sports – put it all together, and you've found Magnetic Island. Love animals? The Island is a haven for adorable rock wallabies and it's also home to northern Australia's largest colony of wild koalas. Experience the relaxing paradise of Magnetic Island with your very own hire care for two days, enjoying two nights' accommodation in your choice of property and return ferry travel.
Priced from $232 per person twin share
