CQUniversity has joined Rockhampton Regional Council in a joint announcement to welcome news of 'ROCKon', a major Music Summit to be held over 3 days from July 10-12 next year.

"This Summit is the first comprehensive music industry event of its kind to be held in Rockhampton," said Cr Rose Swadling, Chair of Council's Community Development and Customer Service Committee.

"It will provide professional development and new skills for local musicians, songwriters, filmmakers and associated industry members," she said.

The band GANGgajang, known for its iconic song This Is Australia, will launch the Summit, at the Pilbeam Theatre on July 10, supported by a showcase of local bands.

Leading Australian and internationally acclaimed music and performing arts industry specialists will contribute to the Summit, with a conference, practical workshops and master classes.

The summit will take place at selected venues including: CQUniversity, Pilbeam Theatre and Walter Reid Cultural Centre.

Networking, social activities and showcase performances will feature local talent and will be included in evening programs.

"The Summit will provide performance and networking opportunities for emerging artists to develop new projects in the local creative arts community," said Cr Swadling.

The Rockhampton Regional Council and CQUniversity are pleased to announce the partnership and initiative which brings the Summit to Rockhampton, along with significant benefits to the Central Queensland arts, music and creative industries.

University Dean and Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Kevin Tickle praised the initiative which should strengthen partnerships and relationships between staff, students and the wider creative community.

"This should create some ongoing opportunities for Rockhampton and our local youth to engage further with the music industry," Professor Tickle said.

Further details are available from ROCKon coordinator Michael Walker P: 4922 4136 or E: mail@grafico-qld.com .

Contributing industry specialists include:

Mark Callaghan: General Manager of the Australian Music Publishers Association, singer and primary songwriter for the band GANGgajang.

Kim Green: Film, television and theatre licensing specialist having previously selected music for films including: Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Shine and Strictly Ballroom.

Bill Hauritz: Director of the Woodford Folk Festival.

Bill Riner: Network Music Programmer for ABC's Local Radio Network.