The spectacular Beef 2003 Opening Ceremony will have a ‘Beef Meets Reef’ theme, recognising the industry’s importance to country and coast.

Thousands of locals and visitors are expected to crowd the main ring of Rockhampton Showgrounds for an afternoon and evening of entertainment on Sunday, April 27.

Opening ceremony producer Marc Barnbaum, from Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music at CQU, said audience members would be very close the action.

“We want to get away from the idea of audience sitting in the stands looking at performers in the middle of the ring ... this time, the audience will be in the ring and the performances will happen in front, behind and in amongst them,” he said.

“In fact, we are keen for audience members to dress in a Beef Meets Reef theme; even to the point of mixing their country and coast clothes for added fun.” Highlights will include pop band Mental As Anything, the Cowgirls cheersquad, and an ABC concert featuring George from Playschool, Blinky Bill and Flap and other meet and greet characters including Babar, Maisy and Paddington Bear.

Another segment will feature hundreds of musicians and performers, specially constructed costumes, and music scored especially for the event by Queensland Pops Orchestra arranger Deidre Forster.

Some seating will be available but audience members are encouraged to bring folding chairs or blankets as part of the picnic atmosphere.

Mr Barnbaum said anyone interested in participating in workshops to create costumes and props for the Opening Ceremony could call him on 4923 2558.

Caption 1: Mermaid Angie Tickner and cowboy Ian Shuker get into the spirit of ‘Beef Meets Reef’. Audience members at the Beef 2003 Opening Ceremony are encouraged to mix country and coast clothes for added fun.

Caption 2: Kylie Sheperdson (left), Ian Shuker and Angie Tickner get into the spirit of ‘Beef Meets Reef’. Audience members at the Beef 2003 Opening Ceremony are encouraged to mix country and coast clothes for added fun.