St Lucia Block Party

Known for her distinctive voice and rich storytelling, Sue Ray’s signature sound and bold stage presence have cemented her a place in Australia’s rich musical landscape.

A highly acclaimed singer-songwriter, Sue Ray has been recognised with three Queensland Music Awards, and nominated for several other industry awards, including “Best Country Album” at the AIR Independent Music Awards, and semi-finalist in the 2023 International Songwriting Competition.

Sue’s sound lays deeply rooted in alt-country, with a side of blues and roots. Echoing elements of the timeless classics of outlaw country and traditional blues she was raised on, Sue has forged a sound undeniably her own.

Having performed across the globe, sharing stages with iconic artists like Vika & Linda, Mental As Anything, Kutcha Edwards, and Luka Bloom, her artistry captivates both audiences and peers alike.

Cali Rd channel their diverse Australian experiences into a distinctive folk-pop sound infused with country and rock influences. With heartfelt storytelling, rich harmonies and a natural chemistry forged over a lifetime, their music feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Brothers Sam and Jack Hunt were destined to make music together. Growing up immersed in country and classic rock, music was embedded in every memory, from suburban Adelaide to a remote cattle station outside Alice Springs, and later Darwin. Although trades careers briefly took priority, fate kept drawing them back to music. After building a loyal online following through viral covers and original songs, the brothers realised their strongest connection was performing together and formed Cali Rd.

Now based in Cronulla, Cali Rd are carving out their own path, creating honest, evocative songs inspired by the people, places and experiences that have shaped their journey.

The UQ Saxophone Ensemble is a collaborative and dynamic ensemble combining Saxophone majors from the School of Music with talented saxophonists from across UQ. It is led by internationally recognised contemporary saxophonist, Dr Emma Di Marco. The UQSE performs across Brisbane with a diverse and eclectic repertoire of newly commissioned works, Australian music, classical transcriptions as well as jazz and popular music. With a bright and energetic sound, the UQSE maintains an active performance calendar across Brisbane with performances at both community events and on-campus appearances at lunchtime concerts and the Music by the Lake Festival. Their set for Block Party is titled ‘Feelin’ the Groove’

‘Feelin’ the Groove’ celebrates the saxophone as the life of the party, bringing together a vibrant program of pop and funk favourites filled with infectious rhythm, irresistible dance grooves, and well-loved melodies from the 80's to now. Performed by the UQ Saxophone Ensemble, the program showcases the full saxophone family - from the tiny, bright soprano saxophone to the rich, resonant bass saxophone - creating a dynamic and colourful sound world. The ensemble invites audiences to connect through music that is energetic, soulful, and impossible not to sing along to!