The Doomadgee-based reggae-rock band DMC Boys are setting their sights on a global audience after recently landing their biggest performance yet, opening for ARIA Award-winning rock act King Stingray.
Hailing from Doomadgee in Queensland's Gulf Country—located about 400 kilometres north-west of Mount Isa—the group blends traditional storytelling, native language, and music. The milestone performance took place on October 10, when King Stingray headlined celebrations in Burketown to mark the reopening of the region's airport, which had been damaged by floods in 2023.
Lead vocalist Elijah Douglas said the community back home has rallied behind the band, inspiring younger kids to learn instruments and sing. However, breaking out of a remote region where local unemployment sits around 20 per cent required pushing past initial hurdles. Lead guitarist Tommy Lee Jack noted that the members initially struggled with nerves and shyness, noting they now manage stage fright by picturing themselves performing safely inside a recording studio.
Following the release of their debut EP in February, the DMC Boys plan to drop more music later this year and hope to tour outside their home region in the new year. Burke Shire Mayor Ernie Camp praised the band for proving that arts and culture can thrive in remote areas, showing local youth that anything is possible.