A toast to the opera

In July the Dalby region will celebrate the second highly successful Opera at Jimbour together with the official opening of the new amphitheatre in one unforgettable event.

Jimbour Wines is sponsoring the event and will be toasting the occasion beside Deputy Prime Minister John Anderson as the official guest at the VI P marquee.

The impressive amphitheatre nestles in the plain that rises to meet majestic Jimbour House and is an ideal setting for the Queensland Music Festival's operatic spectacle.

Jimbour Wines director of product, sales and marketing Chris Moyle said the opera held at Jimbour in 2003 was an outstanding success and the new facility would make it even more spectacular with crowds expected to almost double in 2005.

"At the previous opera we were hoping for around 2000 people and ended up with 4500. This year we're expecting around 8000," he said.

The company promotes Jimbour wines, foods and events which value-add to the local tourist trade and elevate the region's profile.

VIP tickets assure entry into the silk-lined marquee erected in the grand gardens that surround the historic home.

Those seeking a more casual outing can bring a picnic basket and blanket or choose from a selection of food stalls then settle in to enjoy the captivating sounds of Australia's leading operatic singers and musicians.

The opera starts at 2pm on Saturday July 23 but gates are open from 9am with a range of market stalls and pre-opera entertainments on offer. Entry is free and parking is just $5.

For more information on VIP tickets contact Trish Layton on 3878 8909.