Philanthropist Gina Fairfax named patron of QMF’s The Outback Trail
Arts lover, philanthropist and former rural resident Gina Fairfax has been named patron of Queensland Music Festival program, The Outback Trail.
It’s an appointment that makes perfect sense. Queensland Music Festival has welcomed Gina Fairfax as the inaugural patron of The Outback Trail, a flagship regional program celebrating music, community and culture across regional and remote Queensland.
The formal appointment was marked at a special boardroom lunch in South Brisbane Tuesday, hosted in honour of Gina Fairfax and attended by State Arts Minister John-Paul Langbroek, State Tourism Minister Andrew Powell and leaders from government, tourism and the arts.
You couldn’t think of a more appropriate person for this role. Gina Fairfax and husband Tim have lived on the land and know rural life well. The couple are respected philanthropists and arts lovers. They are regulars in theatres and concert halls in Brisbane and beyond.
Gina Fairfax is also a champion for rural communities. She accepted the new role following a series of conversations with QMF, recognising the shared values of resilience, creativity and regional renewal.
“I am honoured to support The Outback Trail and the communities it uplifts,” says Fairfax. “Music and storytelling are such powerful tools for healing, for connection and for celebrating who we are as Queenslanders, particularly in our most remote places.”
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Queensland Music Trails is a groundbreaking initiative by Queensland Music Festival, inviting audiences to explore the state’s diverse landscapes through curated live music experiences. From beaches to rainforests, QMF transforms regional and remote destinations into unforgettable stages, celebrating culture, creativity and community.
Through her patronage, Fairfax will help amplify the work of The Outback Trail by opening doors, offering guidance and championing the impact of arts-led cultural tourism across Queensland.
QMF chair Daniel Gschwind says the partnership reflected a “deeply aligned vision” for the future of regional Queensland.
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“Mrs Fairfax’s commitment to regional Queensland is extraordinary,” says Gschwind. “Her patronage of The Outback Trail will help bring even greater visibility to the stories, people and places that make our state so unique.
“Gina’s advocacy and generosity are legendary. Her belief in the transformative power of the arts mirrors our own. We are honoured to have her support as patron of The Outback Trail, helping us spotlight regional voices and build cultural bridges across the state.”
Arts Minister John-Paul Langbroek says Fairfax’s appointment marks a new chapter in the ongoing success of QMF’s The Outback Trail.
“As an avid arts supporter and philanthropist, Gina’s appointment highlights the important role events like The Outback Trail play in supporting arts for all Queenslanders,” says Langbroek. “Initiatives like The Outback Trail deliver on the priorities of Queensland’s Time to Shine: 10-year strategy for arts and culture, by providing uniquely Queensland arts experiences and enhancing our state’s reputation as a premier cultural destination.”
QMF CEO Daryl Raven described the day as “a significant milestone”.
“This is more than a patronage – it’s a partnership grounded in shared values and a bold vision,” says Raven. “With Gina’s support, we are better placed to unlock the full potential of cultural tourism as a driver of renewal, identity and opportunity for the regions.”
Raven says QMF’s Queensland Music Trails initiative continues to spotlight the strength, creativity and resilience of Indigenous communities through live performance, storytelling and place- based programming.
“As Queensland prepares to welcome the world for the 2032 Olympic Games, QMF remains committed to elevating regional voices and showcasing the depth and diversity of First Nations culture on Country.”