What’s Happening
Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) is set to come alive once again with the return of the Quandamooka Music & Cultural Festival on August 30-31, 2024. This year, the festival promises an even more enriching experience, blending traditional cultural practices with contemporary expressions of First Nations arts, music, food, and community engagement. Following its recent showcase at Wynnum Fringe, the festival will return to its full-scale format for the first time since 2022, offering attendees a unique opportunity to connect deeply with the rich culture of the Nughi, Nunukul, and Goenpul clans.
A Star-Studded Lineup
Headlining the Friday night performances is the acclaimed Meanjin (Brisbane) artist, Jem Cassar-Daley, a proud Gumbaynggirr/Bundjalung woman known for her powerful voice and poignant songwriting. Joining her on stage will be iconic musicians Uncle Joe Geia, Sachem, Getano Bann, and Kaylah Truth, each bringing their own distinctive sound to the island’s serene backdrop.
Saturday will see the return of the much-anticipated Kunjiel, a corroboree that invites traditional dance groups from far and wide to participate in a vibrant and spiritually resonant cultural exchange. This annual gathering of clans is more than a performance—it’s a living tradition that strengthens cultural ties and fosters a deeper understanding of Quandamooka heritage.
New Additions to the Festival Experience
This year’s festival also introduces the inaugural Quandamooka Film Festival, set to provide an immersive drive-in movie experience that blends cultural celebration with cinematic storytelling. Films created by local Quandamooka artists will be showcased, offering audiences a fresh perspective on the island’s stories and history.
Cultural Conversations and Panels
For the first time, the festival will host a series of panel discussions, led by significant voices within the community. These panels will address critical topics such as the future of water rights and housing on the islands, the implications of medium and high-density housing, the intersection of Native Title and water rights, and the pressing concern of whether Quandamooka People might be priced out of living on their ancestral land. These discussions aim to provide a platform for community-driven dialogue.
A Platform for Cultural Preservation
Through performances, discussions, and hands-on activities, attendees will have the chance to engage with the island’s rich cultural and natural heritage, experiencing first-hand the practices and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Join the Celebration
Whether you’re a returning visitor or experiencing the festival for the first time, the Quandamooka Music & Cultural Festival promises a weekend of unforgettable experiences. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be welcomed into a world where tradition meets innovation, and where the cultural heartbeat of Minjerribah resonates through every song, dance, and conversation.
For more information, visit: quandamookafestival.com.au
