Multicultural Affairs Minister Chris Cummins will next week announce the winners of the 2006 Queensland Multicultural Awards, from a field including CQU.

Mr Cummins and local state members of parliament Robert Schwarten and Paul Hoolihan have paid tribute to the CQ region's "multicultural heroes" who have been nominated.

They are: Central Queensland University (Business Category); and, Maria Rickertt from North Rockhampton (Individual Category).

Mr Cummins said there were 111 nominations for this year's awards, which have again been expanded, this time to include new awards for Multicultural Achievers and Minister's Regional Commendations.

"The awards will be presented at State Parliament on Wednesday May 24 and a new Queensland Multicultural Champion will be announced on the night," he said.

Last year's inaugural champion was tennis legend Pat Rafter.

"The Queensland Multicultural Awards night is like the Oscars for the state's high achievers in the promotion and celebration of cultural diversity," Mr Cummins said. "The government will be rolling out the red carpet to ensure the individuals, schools, businesses, community organisations and government agencies that are making a difference in Queensland get due recognition for their hard work and selflessness".