ARIA and NIMA Award-winning singer-songwriter Dan Sultan will headline this year’s Quandamooka Festival, which will feature two days of music, dance, art and on-Country experiences planned for Minjerribah next month.
The free, family-friendly festival will return on Saturday, September 12 and Sunday, September 13, centred at the award-winning QUAMPI Arts & Cultural Centre at Gumpi, Dunwich.
Saturday’s main-stage program will include ceremony, traditional and contemporary dance, live music and performances from Three Fires – Radical Son, Jungaji and Candice Lorrae – alongside Quandamooka artists Kaylah Truth and Adam James. Visitors will also be able to explore markets, workshops, films, exhibitions and conversations with artists, cultural practitioners and community leaders throughout QUAMPI.
QYAC Chair Cameron Costello said the weekend was an invitation for visitors to experience Quandamooka culture on Country.
“Quandamooka Festival is a gathering on Country – an opportunity to celebrate the strength and creativity of our people while welcoming visitors to listen, learn and experience Minjerribah with us,” Mr Costello said.
This year’s theme, Sea Country, will run through the program, honouring the enduring relationship between the Quandamooka People and the waters, wildlife and landscapes surrounding the island.
Sunday will offer a more intimate program, with QUAMPI Conversations bringing together artists, musicians, dancers, activists, Custodians and scientists for discussions on dance, conservation, Caring for Country, culture and creative practice.
Guided tours of three new exhibitions at QUAMPI will also be offered.
The program will extend beyond the cultural centre, with bookable and self-guided island experiences including whale watching, cultural and island tours, aquaculture activities, learn-to-surf sessions, workshops, walks and koala tree planting.
Festival-goers will also be encouraged to explore Minjerribah’s local markets, seafood, coastal views and wildlife.
QUAMPI is a waterfront gathering place for the Noonuccal, Ngugi and Goenpul clans of the Quandamooka People, located within walking distance of the SeaLink ferry terminal and accessible by local bus.
The festival includes accessible ramps, an Elders’ space and volunteer support.
This year’s festival artwork was created by Quandamooka artist Mahala Burns, whose printmaking reflects her relationship with Quandamooka land and Sea Country.
EVENT DETAILS
Event: Quandamooka Festival 2026
Dates: Saturday/Sunday September 12, 13
Festival hub: QUAMPI Arts & Cultural Centre,
14-16 Ballow Rd, Gumpi (Dunwich), Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), Queensland
Tickets: Free registration via Oztix
Program: QuandamookaFestival.net.au
