Capturing untold stories and history

The multi-artform event will illuminate the streets with light shows, soundscapes, art installations, programmed talks and music performances that capture 60,000 years of rich history of the region’s First Nations people.

​​Presented by QLD Music Trails and Shine On Productions, and culturally hosted by the Yidindji of Cairns, the enhanced artworks will showcase the language, stories, chants, and songs born from the deep Indigenous oral history of the area.

Rhoda Roberts OA, Creative Director of Shine On Gimuy, emphasised that the new festival is the illumination of ideas, knowledge and country. 

“The magnificent tree canopies will feature artworks by celebrated local artists Paul Bong and Michelle Yeatman, guiding visitors to the events space on Cairns Waterfront where music, dance, and stories echo the philosophy of the land, waterways, and sky country.”

Authentic connection

Joel Edmondson, CEO of Queensland Music Festival, revealed that Shine on Productions, in collaboration with the First Nations community in Cairns, approached them for this project.

“We strongly believe in it because Far North Queensland is the authentic home of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, a distinction it can rightfully claim,” Mr Edmondson said.

“Arts and culture have always united our First Nations communities, forming the core of their identity.

“Shine On Gimuy is designed to bring to the world a resource for cultural information, understanding and enjoyment of First Nations culture.

“The festival will contribute to the establishment of FNQ as Australia’s premiere destination to experience an authentic connection to Indigenous culture as told by local First Nations clans.

“People in FNQ and across Australia will find this experience deeply fulfilling in ways that words can't fully convey. 

“The active involvement and support of local individuals will be the driving force behind its future growth - local engagement is truly crucial.”

Highlights

Over the ten days, some of the highlights include the Gimuy Art Story Walk featuring installations like Shields and Swords, Fever of Stingrays, Saltwater, Blaktivation, and Country Ceremony Opening Ceremony, as well as The Blak Markets.

As part of the festivities, Salt House will host live music performances by renowned First Nations talent and the 'Deep Wisdom' talk series, where cultural knowledge holders will explore sea migration, story of origin/creation, land, sea and sky stories, songlines across country, fire management, and First Nations inventors.

Stay tuned for the upcoming announcement of the complete schedule for these music performances and talks.

Tickets and information can be found at http://shineongimuy.au.