Welcome to Shine On Gimuy. It is a powerful platform for showcasing local Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander stories through a diverse range of musicians, storytellers, artists and performers, helping to establish the Cairns and Great Barrier Reef region as a leading destination for First Nations cultural tourism. 

Heralding the beginning of Shine On Gimuy Festival is the Calling Country Ceremony–a coming together of First Nations clan groups to the Gimuy/Cairns area and surrounding region, hosted by the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji peoples.

The Artstory Light Walk is a mesmerising installation of public art, light sculptures, and soundscapes, reflecting the vibrant colours and natural beauty of Tropical North Queensland.

The Music Makers program showcases an incredible line-up of national and local First Nations artists, from established icons to emerging talents.

The Deep Wisdom Conversations series brings together leading First Nations thinkers, cultural leaders, and changemakers for powerful discussions on sovereignty, Country, leadership, and the future.

Circa Cairns is a leading First Nations-led organisation in contemporary circus and acrobatics. Young people will have the opportunity to learn from some of the best in all manner of techniques, skills and tricks! These workshops will be accessible—there’s something for everyone.

A world-class concert of the best First Nations artists - celebrate all things First Nations music in a festival setting unique to the tropics!
Presented in partnership with QMF

The Blak Markets celebrate the creativity and craftsmanship of First Nations and Bama (‘Bama’ meaning First Nations people from rainforest Country) artisans, craftspeople, and businesses.

Messages from key supporters of Shine On Gimuy.

Our expert Cultural Guides Committee advises on all activities, operations and programming of Shine On Gimuy Festival.