Queensland on Tour
We worked with QMusic to deliver Queensland on Tour which aims to strengthen Queensland's live music circuits.
With Queensland on Tour, we are bringing together our regional music venues and national tour bookers to showcase the potential in touring one of Australia's largest and most diverse regional states.
With a growing population, Queensland is uniquely positioned to offer opportunities for touring success. With easily connected large centres and cities up and down the state, Queensland provides an ideal environment for thriving nightlife economies and touring artists.
Designed specifically for bands, artists, agents, and managers, Queensland on Tour is more than just music, it's about:
- fostering economic growth
- supporting the live music ecosystem
- helping the industry adapt and thrive in today's climate.
The first chapter of Queensland on Tour was launched on 4 September 2025 at BIGSOUND.
The Night-Life Economy Commissioner, John ‘JC' Collins hosted the launch event at The Wickham, bringing together regional venue operators, national tour bookers and music industry leaders to explore new opportunities for live music across Queensland.
Support from Arts Queensland, part of the Department of Education showcased Blue Diner, a regional band on stage at the event.
Blue Diner performing at Queensland on Tour event at BIGSOUND 2025.
There was also a panel discussion about the value of touring moderated by Daryl Raven, CEO of Queensland Music Festival. Panellists included:
- John 'JC' Collins, Night-Life Economy Commissioner
- Brad Hinds, Head of Music, Oztix
- Melissa O'Bryan, former Entertainment Manager, Solbar (Sunshine Coast).
The Night-Life Economy Commissioner would like to acknowledge the closure of Solbar in early 2026, and Melissa's contributions and ongoing support of grassroots music as the Chair of Sunshine Coast Music Industry Collective.
The panel discussion was centred on the importance of regional touring and Queensland's unique position as a growing state with well-connected cities and regional centres.
Attendees at the event received the Queensland on Tour brochure, designed to help artists, agents and managers navigate Queensland's touring landscape and connect with venues ready to support live performance.
The brochure featured 28 live music venues across the state and spotlights 13 key locations including Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Airlie Beach, Rockhampton, Gladstone, Bundaberg, and Mount Isa.
Queensland on Tour marks a significant step forward in showcasing Queensland's capacity and ambition to lead the nation in both live music and tourism, and provide a nightlife for everyone, everywhere.
More information
For more information, email us at commissioner@nlec.qld.gov.au.