This October, Gimuy (Cairns) will light up like never before as the third annual Shine On Gimuy festival returns from Thursday 16 to Sunday 26 October 2025. Running along the iconic Gimuy Boulevard and Cairns Esplanade, the festival forms a key highlight on QLD Music Trails: The Tropics, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a dazzling program of light, art, culture, and First Nations storytelling.
Led by Artistic Director Rhoda Roberts AO, Shine On Gimuy brings together a bold and inspiring program of light installations, art sculptures, animations, soundscapes, music, dance, comedy, and conversations.
The theme for 2025 is Kinship, reflecting the sacred systems that First Peoples have followed for thousands of years. These systems guide relationships between people, Country, waterways, and Sky Country, rooted in values of kindness, generosity, and humility.
“Kinship reminds us that we are all interconnected—it guides our stewardship, from our totemic relationships to the care of Country, waterways, and Sky Country. This year’s Shine carries that theme, inviting all to connect and gain a deeper understanding of who we are.”
— Rhoda Roberts AO, Artistic Director
Calling Country: Opening Ceremony
Kick off Shine On Gimuy journey with the powerful Calling Country ceremony. Elders, dancers, and storytellers come together on the Cairns Esplanade to share a breathtaking performance that grounds the festival in First Nations traditions and connections to Gimuy Country.
KINSHIP Artstory Light Walk
Every night of Shine On Gimuy, the Gimuy Boulevard will transform into a glowing wonderland. The KINSHIP-themed Artstory Light Walk features large-scale light installations, animations, and soundscapes, offering visitors a reflective, immersive journey into First Nations storytelling and the theme of interconnectedness.
Live Music, Dance & Performance
From soulful music to cultural dance, spoken word, and comedy, the festival’s live program celebrates creativity and cultural identity. Experience performances from local and regional artists, each offering their own interpretation of First Nations storytelling.
Multi-Arts Activations & Conversations The Festival Hub on the Eastern Events Lawn buzzes with interactive workshops, artist talks, and hands-on activities, creating spaces for learning, discussion, and community connection.
Shine On Gimuy is a vibrant platform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, culture, and creativity. The festival brings communities together, inviting locals and visitors alike to experience authentic storytelling, music, dance, and visual art.
“This festival doesn’t just spotlight the extraordinary creativity of our First Nations communities — it invites everyone to witness the stories, spirit, and strength that shape who we are.”
— Cairns Mayor Cr Amy Eden
Discover QLD Music Trails: The Tropics, a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and connection set against the stunning landscapes of Tropical North Queensland.
The trail kicks off on Friday 17 October at the Tanks Arts Centre with the Futures Summit, a daytime gathering for emerging Indigenous artists and leaders featuring mentoring sessions and cultural exchange. That evening, Blak Rising Showcase lights up the open air with performances from Miss Kaninna, Jada Weazel, Dean Brady, Tjaka, and R3B.
On Saturday 18 October, Dream Aloud Festival takes over Munro Martin Parklands for a full day of music, storytelling, and First Nations culture. Highlights include an all-First Nations lineup — Budjerah, Kaiit, South Summit, DENNI, 3%, Dubbzone, Kaweyova, Normey Jay — and a Welcome to Country from the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji Traditional Owners.
Throughout the trail, enjoy food, markets, workshops, art installations, and immersive cultural experiences, all curated in collaboration with community and grounded in Country.
The Tropics Trail
October 9 - 12
Mareeba, Cairns Hinterland
October 16
CAIRNS / GIMUY
October 17
October 18
Cairns / Gimuy
October 24 - 26
Yungaburra QLD
October 3 - 13
Cairns Esplanade & Salt House
October 9
Mt Uncle Distillery, Walkamin
Jilara Oval, Yarrabah
October 5
Munro Martin Parklands, Cairns