The Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music jazz program has scored a coup via an invitation to arrange a series of jazz workshops and performances in partnership with Hamilton Island in 2003.

The series is designed to enhance the island's potential as an educational destination.

Conservatorium jazz lecturer Derrin Kerr said the Con had also been asked to plan a major international jazz conference and festival on the island, which could attract overseas stars.

Mr Kerr said this project was in addition to plans for another ABC Radio jazz tour of coastal Queensland plus an invitation to organise a major jazz event at Noosa.

He said the profile of the jazz program was due to the hard work of staff and students over the past few years, with more than 80 performances in 2002 alone.

The last major gig for this year is in Mackay this Saturday night (Oct 5) at the Conservatorium Theatre, when leading artists Don Burrows and Kevin Hunt feature in a Night of Jazz. Bookings are available via 4940 7800 ENDS For details call Derrin Kerr via 4940 7800