Far North Queensland is set to receive a boost for indigenous arts and culture to lure more tourists with the announcement of a funding increase of $300,000 for the 2012 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF).

The increased investment through Events Queensland will lift the total investment in the event in 2012 to $350,000, up from $50,000 in 2011.

CIAF is the only Australian event where commercial galleries and Indigenous Art Centres come together to sell art by Queensland Indigenous artists.

In 2011 more than 13,000 people attended the event which showcased visual art, dance, music, forums and workshops.

Events Queensland CEO John O'Sullivan said CIAF has seen a steady growth in popularity since the inaugural event in 2009.

"Since the event began, CIAF has attracted more than 35,000 people, supporting the region's reputation as an ideal event destination," said Mr O'Sullivan.

"CIAF joins a dynamic and growing calendar of events in Queensland which, for Cairns, includes the annual AFL fixture between Richmond Tigers and Gold Coast SUNS, Cairns Amateurs, Cairns Airport  Adventure Festival, Chinese New Year Festival, Cairns Blues Festival 2012 and the Cairns Adventure Film Festival," said Mr O'Sullivan.

The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair will run from 17-19 August 2012 at the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal. 

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