The eight winners of the national Passport To Airlie competition have now been announced following the final heat which took place in Mackay over the weekend.
Gravy Train (Darwin), The Robert Cini Band (Cairns), The Wild Sky (Mackay), Staremaster (Sunshine Coast), Funk Knuckle (Brisbane), Venus Fly Trap (Byron Bay), Avalanche (Newcastle) and Ally Row (Melbourne) managed to beat 300 other musical acts from around the country to claim their spot.
The Passport To Airlie final will be held on the main-stage in the big-top tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on Thursday, November 9 and the whole family are invited to come along and listen to these quality aspiring musicians perform.
At just $10 entry or free for three-day ticket holders, this event is open to under 18s as well and is a great way for local youth to experience festival vibes and immerse themselves in musical culture.
The evening will also set the stage for what is expected to be a fantastic weekend of music.
Adding to the excitement will be Perry Street Park, last year's winners, who will headline the evening, fresh off the back from supporting The Superjesus on part of their national tour.
These talented musicians understand first-hand what it is like to be part of Passport To Airlie.
"I’ve personally been a part of Passport To Airlie twice,” said front-man Benny.
“Once as a solo project in 2019 and in 2022 with Perry Street Park.
“Passport To Airlie gives up and coming bands from all around Australia the opportunity to perform at a renowned festival on the big stage in front of industry and music lovers!
“Winning this in 2022 has led to unbelievable opportunities for Perry Street Park including touring with The Superjesus and gave us a lot of credit and proof for the work we were putting in."
For more information or for tickets to the 2023 festival from November 9-12, visit www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au, and follow @airliebeachfestivalofmusic on Facebook and Instagram.
WHAT: Passport To Airlie National Showcase Final
WHERE: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Main-stage
Whitsunday Sailing Club
WHEN: Thursday, November 9 from 6pm
TICKETS: $10
WHAT: Airlie Beach Festival of Music
WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club and 14 local venues
WHEN: 9 – 12 November
TICKETS: www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au
Perry Street Park won last years’ Passport To Airlie and will be performing on the main-stage at this years’ Airlie Beach Festival of Music. Photos supplied