The search is on for south-east Queensland’s most talented emerging singer-songwriters.

Arts Minister Rod Welford today launched the 2007 fRETfEST Find of the Year series, at QPAC.

“The fRETfEST Find of the Year series, now in its fourth year, aims to discover and develop emerging Queensland artists,” Mr Welford said.

“Our talented singer-songwriters will be given the opportunity to perform their original works to audiences at QPAC’s Cascade Court, from August to November.

“Queensland is now widely regarded as a hotspot for musical talent and I’m pleased QPAC is working with fRETfEST to unearth and support new artists.”

fRETfEST was established in 1997 to support the interest in folk, roots and acoustic music. This year the series is supported by Ellaways Music and Fender.

Artists associated with fRETfEST include Pete Murray, Bobby Flynn, Women in Docs, Rob Longstaff, Sarah Watson, Luke Paten and Liz Flynn.

fRETfEST director Alan Buchan said the series would enable greater public exposure for budding musicians.

“The series is open to individuals who play acoustic guitar and who can sing three original songs,” Mr Buchan said.

“Not only will the artists gain invaluable performing experience through fRETfEST, they will also be offered access to developmental opportunities.

“Every participant receives music industry information, discount vouchers and a free ticket to a professional development workshop.”

The 2007 series is being held in four age categories with a different category profiled each month: August - Under 18s; September - 18 to 25 year-olds; October - 26 to 40 year-olds and November - Over 40s.