Inspired by a story from Stephen’s grandmother from the Ngugi/Nunukul/Moondjan people of Minjerribah (Stradbroke Island), Baleen Moondjan celebrates the First Nations’ relationships between baleen whales and Communities’ totemic systems. Stephen combines contemporary dance and narrative storytelling with songs in English, Jandai, and Gumbaynggirr/Yaegl as he conjures up the elements of theatre in a dynamic outdoor setting.

Unveiling Shadows is the debut solo work of First Nations (Bidjara/Kullali/Wakka Wakka) Italian artist and performer Joshua Taliani, directed by Wanida Serce. Joshua’s signature style is heavy on open choreography, infused with the art form of vogue (a part of the Ballroom culture). Working across genres, from street dance to dance theatre, Joshua’s practice is grounded in hip-hop, with experience that includes contemporary dance and queer Ballroom culture.

Projections reveal a landscape that is both sacred and stolen, while sound and movement entwine to evoke a connection to Country for the audience, and for the performers, one that cannot be erased. Developed over six years through collaboration with the performers’ communities on their Countries, Preparing Ground embodies First Nations storytelling Sovereignty, and what it means to belong to a land that remembers.

Back by popular demand, Nieergoo: Spirit of the Whale returns to illuminate Brisbane’s skyline. Watch as hundreds of drones soar above the Brisbane River as Traditional Owner Yuggera and Toorabul man Shannon Ruska and Tribal Experiences retell this powerful story of Culture, Country, and connection to place, with original composition by Guy Webster.

In 1993, in the sweltering Darwin Amphitheatre, a young First Nations boy found himself swept away by the legendary Tina Turner. That life-changing evening would spark a journey of self-discovery and transformation. TINA — A Tropical Love Story is a heartfelt tribute to the indomitable spirit of the rock icon. Enter the enchanting realm of First Nations drag performer Miss Ellaneous (AKA Ben Graetz). This dazzling celebration of Darwin, drag, and Tina Turner is written, performed and directed by Graetz with special performances from the drag, First Nations, and queer performance scene.

When a brother and sister turn out the lights for the night, their Nan promises to tell them a story. Like the beating wings of the Bogong moth, her voice carries them into dreams, into an extraordinary world where Country shares its secrets. The Bogong’s Song is a blend of storytelling, shadow puppetry, dance, and song created especially for primary-aged children. As Nan passes her knowledge to her grandchildren, we’re all invited to experience connection to Country.

Inspired by Australian landscapes and dedicated to living and learning from our natural world, Migrating Bird bridges the gap between contemporary and classical. Renowned violinist Véronique Serret — one of Australia’s most celebrated musicians — uses her voice for the first time on her ARIA-nominated album, singing songs as offerings to the natural world. Special guest William Barton joins this intimate experience, bringing the haunting sounds of the yidaki/didgeridoo.

Set against the island paradise backdrop of Minjerribah (North Stradbroke), the multi-artform festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the continuing Culture of the Nughi, Nunukul, and Goenpul clans of the Quandamooka People firsthand. The annual festival begins with a Traditional Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country for participants and audiences to celebrate the yalingila (whale) migration season. The gathering will then showcase a diverse lineup of cultural activities, including tours, Kunjiel (corroborees), music performances, food, weaving, arts, crafts, panel discussions, First Nations’ film, and more.

Feel the sunshine at a free all-ages concert featuring an incredible line-up of musical goodness and performances. Headlining is The Quandamooka Crooner Adam James and The Dreamtime Swing, who reimagine the songs of iconic First Nations musicians with the electrifying flair of ‘60s big-band music. Also serenading crowds will be Yalanji jazz icon Deline Briscoe's Gaba Musik + Topology.

With a torch as your paintbrush, paint and stencil your glowing voyage while ships leave radiant trails of light behind them. As you explore Sea of Light, vibrant artworks by contemporary Aboriginal visual artist Elizabeth Close illuminate across the sea floor. These light-based paintings reflect the connection between land and sea, earth and water, and draw inspiration from the diverse Australian landscape. They also speak to the profound relationship that Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people have with Country.