IPA chief a 'guitar hero' for helping out NQ Rock Awards

Date: Friday, 18th September 2009

Recruitment chief Rabieh Krayem doesn’t regard himself as a musical person but he knows the importance of confidence and self-expression in young people.

That’s why when the NQ Rock Awards were short of cash and looked like being in jeopardy, Mr Krayem’s firm, IPA, and Together Townsville came up with $18,000 to make sure the youth event would go ahead.

The awards will take place at the Entertainment Centre on Saturday, 10 October, contested by more than 20 bands.

They have been staged in Townsville for 29 years, giving budding musos the experience of performing before a large audience, showcasing their talent, and providing a training ground for future career paths.

Mr Krayem said IPA was committed to helping Townsville’s young people and there was no better way than ensuring the NQ Rock Awards continued.

“This is a great event that provides a whole range of opportunities for kids to chase their dreams in rock and music production or forge a career in the events and entertainment industries,” he said.

“It’s been going for years and we don’t want to see it not reach its full potential, so we’re happy to provide the necessary financial backing.”

Coordinator Andrew Higgins said he was thrilled with the support.

“This is an expensive event to stage and schools aren’t the richest places,” he said.

“For years we’ve been in school halls, PCYCs, and then the Soundshell. While those venues have looked after us very well, we wanted to remain at the Entertainment Centre.

“This grant will enable us to do that and maintain our status. We’re very grateful to IPA and the council for their support.”

This year’s contest will feature three new sections – vocal solo, beat-boxing, and guitar hero.

Since their inception by Andrew’s father, Peter, in 1980 the NQ Rock Awards have discovered numerous great musical talents, most recently Luke Kennedy who is now one of the 10 Tenors, Ben Salter from The Gin Club, Patrick Savina who has since recorded with Shannon Noll, Trent Bell from this year’s Australian Idol Top 60, and Sydney-based songwriter/composer Simon Self.

More information is available at www.nqrockawards.com.au.