un/tethered: connections through storytellers from Papua New Guinea
About
Un/tethered brings together the stories of six creative women from the Papua New Guinea diaspora community in Queensland as they explore belonging and connection. Through objects carefully selected from their homes and the Queensland Museum collection, they examine cultural anchors, adaptations and the quiet ache of distance. Discover how the evolving nature of identity is woven through all we’re tethered to and all we’ve lost.
Thank you to the six participants and their families:
Kiri Chan
Stephanie Donigi
Paia Ingram
Ranu James
Kirsten McGavin
Natalie Richards
About Independence Day
Papua New Guinea’s Independence Day is celebrated both at home and in communities across Australia: a time to come together and celebrate the community’s strength and resilience. The 50th anniversary in 2025 marks a profound milestone of reclaimed sovereignty for the country and its people. Colonial rule in Papua New Guinea ended on 16 September 1975 with the appointment of the country’s first Prime Minister, Michael Somare, whose vision for nation building laid the foundation for the country’s future.
Accessibility
This exhibition features: background soundtrack, very low light and projection/video. For accessibility assistance and resources for this exhibition, including a sensory map and large print guide, please visit the museum’s accessibility page or contact the museum on (07) 3153 3000.
Acknowledgements
Queensland Museum acknowledges the First Peoples – the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters and sky where we live and work. We honour their unbroken connection to Country, culture, and community. We pay respect to Elders past, present and future. We recognise our shared history and commit to embedding First Nations voices in Queensland’s continuing story.
We extend our respects to Elders of the Papua New Guinea community who have made significant contributions to our community’s cultural fabric and worked hard to increase awareness and visibility of the diaspora community’s identities, histories, heritage and experiences.
Aboriginal People and Torres Strait Islanders are advised that this display contains images and accounts of people who have passed away. We also advise that any racist and derogatory language contained in the display is ‘of its time’ and does not reflect the contemporary views of Queensland Museum. We have preserved this to help our audiences understand both past and ongoing experiences of Australian First Nations people and as part of our commitment to truth and reconciliation.
Exhibition portrait photography by Joe Ruckli.
Make a Scene: Fashioning Queer Identity and Club Culture in the 90s
In the 1990s, a vibrant and creative underground nightclub and dance party scene emerged in Brisbane for LGBTQIA+ people and their allies – safe places to wear fabulous fashions that celebrated the community’s diversity and reflected a fearless self-expression of identity.
Coinciding with the 35th anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexuality, this original exhibition by Queensland Museum brings together fashion, pop culture and LGBTQIA+ lived experience. Featuring extraordinary pieces from the museum’s costume and fashion collections, Make a Scene will reveal untold stories of Queensland’s LGBTQIA+ communities and illuminate key moments from this period of Brisbane’s history.
Exploring a diverse range of dress codes expressing LGBTQIA+ identity of the early 1990s, the exhibition will also highlight the works of two distinctly different, but interconnected Brisbane-based labels that represent a new queer youth culture crystallising in Queensland at the time – Mark Wilson’s Hairy Dog, and Kenn Bushby and Chrissy Feld’s Glamourpussy.
Journey back to the 90s dancefloor through fashion, objects and lived experiences generously shared by community, artists, designers and cultural institutions from Brisbane and beyond. The scene is set.
Croc! Lost Giants to Living Legends
Walk alongside one of the planet’s most powerful and fascinating animals, on a journey stretching back over 130 million years. This interactive all-ages exhibition will bring you face-to-face with the mighty crocodile.
From ancient ‘supercrocs’ that once roamed with dinosaurs to the unique crocodile species living across the world today, Croc! Lost Giants to Living Legends explores the science, culture and enduring connections between people and these remarkable creatures.
Crocodiles survived the dinosaurs, evolved and made their mark on culture, fascinating humans from early First Nations’ stories to Hollywood blockbusters of today. Where does the legend and the myth meet reality?
Experts from Queensland Museum, the Australian National Maritime Museum and the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory have created this world premier exhibition.
Stories You Wear: Magpie Goose
Celebrating Country and Culture through the bold designs of Magpie Goose.
Tickets for this very special live experience are strictly limited, please book now to avoid missing out.Celebrating Country and Culture through the bold designs of Magpie Goose.
Museum of Brisbane is excited to collaborate with Magpie Goose, a proudly Aboriginal owned and led fashion and social enterprise, to celebrate extraordinary First Peoples cultural stories and designs.
This exclusive to Brisbane exhibition, developed in close collaboration with Magpie Goose owners Amanda Hayman (Wakka Wakka and Kalkadoon) and Troy Casey (Kamilaroi), offers a deep dive into the work of some of the region’s most talented First Peoples artists and designers. Using clothing as a canvas for storytelling, this exciting collaboration will connect audiences with the rich and diverse cultural expressions of First Peoples communities in Queensland and beyond.
Discover the artists and stories behind the brand that’s making a difference, one garment at a time.
Accessible resources like audio descriptions, audio content and exhibition labels for download are available here.
Be the first to find out more about Stories You Wear: Magpie Goose by becoming a MoB Member.
ΝΟΣΤΟΙ | Homecomings: Stories of the Ionian Island Diaspora in Queensland
ΝΟΣΤΟΙ explores the way that storytelling, history, myth, memory and experience of the Ionian Islands off the western coast of Greece (Kerkyra, Paxi, Lefkada, Ithaki, Kefalonia, Zakynthos and Kythera) fuels the imagination and identity of the diaspora in Queensland.
The exhibition is the result of a three-year collaboration between the Antiquities Museum and Ionian Islands diaspora communities in Queensland. It combines artefacts, documents, garments and photographs from public and private collections with newly recorded oral histories to create a rich tapestry of how the islands are remembered, experienced and passed on to future generations.
Proudly presented by The University of Queensland RD Milns Antiquities Museum, UQ Arts, the Kytherian Association of Queensland, the Ithacan Society of Queensland, and supported by Friends of Antiquity and the Kytherian Brotherhood of Queensland.
Event Website URL: https://antiquities-museum.uq.edu.au/nostoi-homecomings-stories-ionian-island-diaspora-queensland
Afghanistan- Andrew Quilty
Andrew Quilty is an Award-winning photojournalist and author. His work in Afghanistan has been published worldwide and garnered accolades including a World Press Photo award, three Picture of the Year International awards, and nine Walkley Awards, including the Gold Walkley. Curated by Ellie Waterhouse, Afghanistan is a profoundly moving and powerful exhibition of photographs captured during Quilty’s years in the Afghan capital of Kabul from 2013 to 2022. Quilty describes his work from this period as an ‘imperfect portrait of time and place’. His photographs skilfully balance moments of beauty and brutality, humanising the effects of war while inviting reflection on resilience, hope, and the impact of conflict on everyday life.
Acknowledgement
Afghanistan is a Museums & Galleries Queensland (M&G QLD) touring exhibition presented in partnership with photojournalist and author Andrew Quilty, and curator Ellie Waterhouse. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government’s Visions of Australia program. It is proudly sponsored by Heckler and supported by Human Rights Watch.
M&G QLD is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.
Beachmere: The collective memories of a seaside village
Beachmere’s rich history has been shaped by its people and coastal environment.
This exhibition celebrates the town’s enduring community spirit - still growing, remembering, and staying connected to the sea.
Through photographs, objects, artworks, and stories, discover a snapshot of the town’s layered history: From the role the environment has played in shaping its culture to its growth as a coastal suburb.
Exhibition developed by City of Moreton Bay in collaboration with historian Karen Wallwork.
Bribie Island Seaside Museum is open from Wednesday to Friday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, and Saturday to Sunday, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
How Soon Is Now?
Art of Bruce Reynold
How Soon Is Now? brings together a selection of Bruce Reynolds’ exquisite cast relief works with painterly, two-dimensional collaged linoleum works.
It celebrates a physicality that is frequently overlooked in today’s growing digital environment.
Visitors to this exhibition will enjoy immersing themselves in the physicality of Bruce Reynolds’ superbly crafted works. They can appreciate his references to antiquity, migration, memory and time, and the natural and built environment.
Free - no bookings required. All ages.
About the artist
Bruce Reynolds’ work grew from collage to relief and sculpture over a number of decades. Artist residencies in Rome focused his studio and architectural works on relief forms that occupy the space between painting and sculpture, and between drawing and architecture. He describes it as being both archaic and a fresh place of representation.
How Soon is Now? is a Museums & Galleries Queensland touring exhibition presented in partnership with the artist, Bruce Reynolds. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government’s Visions of Australia program, and is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.
Image credit: Bruce Reynolds, Skyphos (Atlantis), 2015. Plaster and pigment. 56 x 66 26cm. Courtesy of the artist.
Redcliffe Art Gallery is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
Harvest
This International Women's Day we celebrate our local women farmers and agribusiness champions.
Harvest digs down into the rich agricultural heritage of our region - its deep roots, thriving present, and bold growth for the future.
The exhibition celebrates stories of this Country which has always been home to Aboriginal people. Country has been managed expertly for tens of thousands of years and continues to see abundant yields produced by today’s farmers.
Through a vibrant mix of historical objects, striking photographs, and personal stories, Harvest reveals how agriculture has always influenced our land, economy, and ways of life.
This exhibition will be shown first at Redcliffe Museum, followed by Pine Rivers Heritage Museum. Each museum will share some homegrown stories.
Image credit: Loading melons on the Hungerford family farm, Kippa-Ring, c1960. City of Moreton Bay, RLPC-001\001284.
Redcliffe Museum is open Wednesday to Friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Saturday - Sunday 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
New School of the Living and the Dead
New School of the Living and the Dead is an imaginative exhibition of new works by Brisbane-based artist Bill Platz.
In 1972, three life-size Classical Greek bronze statues were discovered on the Mediterranean seabed off the coast of Southern Italy.
Two of the Riace Warriors are standing in a museum in Calabria as celebrated emblems of Classical beauty and the Western canon.
In this exhibition of new works, Platz imagines the third sculpture — the yawning warrior — was smuggled out of Italy, and, after a fraught journey, was jettisoned in the shallow waters of Deception Bay before it could be seized.
This exhibition has been developed by City of Moreton Bay in collaboration with Bill Platz.
Free - no bookings required. All ages.
Image credit: Bill Platz, Pretending to Swim 01, 2025. Iron gall ink, charcoal and gouache on primed carbon fibre/aramid fibre panel. Courtesy of the artist.
Redcliffe Art Gallery is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
Dearly Departed: death in life
Death is a universal experience. It will come to us all. Yet the way we confront, discuss, experience and ultimately reckon with death, and the realities of dying, varies enormously. Culturally diverse traditions and practices around death offer unique insights into how communities around the world honour and mourn their loved ones, shaping vastly different experiences and understandings of life’s final chapter.
Throughout the 20th century, death became a quiet taboo; something rarely spoken of, despite touching every life. Positioned at the powerful intersection of history, art and emotion, Dearly Departed encourages audiences to reflect on what it means to live well, die well and honour those who came before us. It reframes death not as an ending, but as a profound and enduring part of Queensland’s living story.
Innovative, accessible, and deeply human, Dearly Departed: death in life invites visitors into a bold exploration of mortality across Queensland’s past, present and future. Through rich historical insight, evocative artistic interpretation and interactive design, the exhibition sparks meaningful conversation about life, death and the memories we hold.
Drawing on the State Library’s rich collections of objects and stories, the exhibition explores how social, cultural, spiritual, historical and political forces have shaped Queenslanders’ attitudes to death and dying – then and now.
Join us as we rediscover how confronting death helps us better understand life itself.
Content note
This exhibition features images, videos, and objects associated with death and dying. These can evoke emotions, memories, or personal reflections. Visitors are encouraged to move through the space at their own pace and to take breaks whenever needed. This exhibition contains photographs, videos and recordings of people who have since passed, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Abbey After Dark: Ancient Egyptian Brewing Practices with Dr Serena Love
The Abbey Museum invites you to an unforgettable evening exploring the history of ancient brewing practices. Join Dr Serena Love as we rediscover and recreate the flavours of ancient brews in an exciting experiment with Hip Hops Brewers!
Beer in ancient Egypt was a daily staple, ritual offering, and tool of social cohesion, produced in dedicated brewery spaces using distinct ingredients, vessels, and fermentation techniques. This talk combines archaeological evidence with experimental brewing—to explore the science behind ancient alcoholic beverages—to reconstruct processes, flavours, and the practical challenges of making ancient beers.
Your evening begins with entertainment and a delicious antipasto selection. Courtesy of Hip Hops Brewers, guests will also get an exclusive first taste of a recipe derived from ancient Egyptian sources. After your grazing experience, take a twilight wander through the Museum’s galleries, setting the perfect atmosphere for a night of storytelling and exploration.
QLD BALLET present MESSA DA REQUIEM at Glasshouse Theatre
Where music, movement, and mortality collide
Verdi’s monumental Messa da Requiem comes alive in Christian Spuck’s breathtaking staging, fusing voices, orchestra, and 36 dancers into a living sculpture of sound and movement.
From the whispered prayers to the thunderous Dies Irae, this work explores life, death, and the mystery beyond in a collision of opera, dance, and ritual. Featuring over 110 singers and Queensland Symphony Orchestra musicians, this unforgettable staging is both epic and intimate. A once-in-a-generation experience that transcends boundaries.
Warrajamba
Follow the mermaid in the bay.
Dive into story, culture and hands-on creativity with our latest Artist in Residence, Quandamooka artist Delvene Cockatoo-Collins.
Journey alongside Delvene to the shores of Minjerribah and discover the ancestral story of Warrajamba, the mermaid, a living cultural legacy that Delvene continues to explore as she searches for its lost ending.
Get hands-on and create your own mermaid or dugong using artist-designed stamps, connecting with the stories of Warrajamba and Yungong, the dugong. Discover Delvene’s powerful sculptural work made from materials gathered from Country—yungair/yungaire (freshwater reed), talwalpin (beach hibiscus cotton tree), and quampie shell. Come and be immersed in a space that celebrates care for land, sea and story.
Visitors are also invited to create and connect through a series of workshops, school holiday activities, and opportunities to see Delvene creating in the space. Want to be the first to know? Become a MoB Member.
Abbey Trivia Night - Calling all Trivia Tragics
Come along and enjoy a night of challenging trivia questions! Join Trivia Master Libby for a night of fun competition on Saturday, 28th March, and test your knowledge on a variety of topics; from history and the arts, to people and places!
Cost: $10 per person (includes supper) | Primary School aged children are FREE
Time: 6pm check-in for a 6:30pm start
Indulgences (answer purchases): limit of 2 per round of questions. Will be paid for at the end of the evening.
Raffle: tickets will be sold on the night at $2 each or 3 for $5.
All funds raised throughout the night will go towards the conservation of a Samian bowl that is believed to have been made by in the style of Maiiaus of Trier during the time of the Roman Empire, c. 170-240AD.
Kids Dig It! Ancient Greece Family Fun
Rediscover the history, culture and arts of Ancient Greece at the Abbey Museum these Easter school holidays! Kids Dig It! returns April 7th – 10th with Ancient Greece Family Fun. Enjoy hands on, educational activities with the whole family! Suited for ages 5 – 12 years.
Kids can:
- Practise with a bow & arrow, guided by our Archery team
- Try your hand painting your own Greek-inspired pottery
- Uncover Greek artefacts in the Archaeological Dig
- Create your own keepsake with a selection of Greek-themed Crafts
- Enjoy games, quizzes and more inside the Museum!
Head to our website for more details and tickets.
Farmyard fun day at Redcliffe Museum
Join the team at Redcliffe Museum for a day of laughter, food, and fun!
We are bringing the country to the museum with the famous Amazing Animals to You mobile petting zoo.
Meet beautiful calves, piglets, ducks, cheeky miniature goats, woolly sheep, fluffy bunnies and cuddly guinea pigs and chickens. Take the opportunity to hold these adorable farm animals and learn how to care for them.
As well, you can:
Embrace your colours with face painting.
Take home a handmade balloon toy.
Enjoy our delicious sausage sizzle, courtesy of the Naval Association of Australia – Redcliffe Sub Section.
Wear your comfy clothes and bring your energy. We look forward to seeing you all!
Free - no bookings required. All ages.
Image credit: Courtesy of Amazing Animals to You.
Redcliffe Museum is open Wednesday to Friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Saturday - Sunday 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
Croc! Guided Tour for Families
Take a guided tour of Queensland Museum Kurilpa's crocodile exhibition these school holidays. Led by a Croc Guide, this engaging experience takes you back 130 million years to uncover jaw-dropping insights into ancient SuperCrocs, and crocodiles found around the world today.
Along the way, you’ll learn extra croc facts, stories and special insights into how these remarkable creatures have evolved over time. Designed for families, these tours are suitable for all ages looking for a school holiday adventure.
Only two tours available these holidays. Tour tickets include entry to Croc! Lost Giants to Living Legends. Ticketholders are welcome to stay inside the exhibition after the tour ends.
Croc! is presented by Queensland Museum, the Australian National Maritime Museum and the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.
Event Web
Abbey After Dark: Medieval Dress Accessories
Need some inspiration for your costume to the highly-anticipated Abbey Medieval Festival?
Get an up-close look at the workmanship & reproduction of upper class items, with an EXCLUSIVE white glove experience!
Your evening begins with live entertainment and a delicious antipasto selection, setting the perfect atmosphere for a night of storytelling and exploration. After your grazing experience, take a twilight wander through the Museum’s galleries, where centuries of history come alive in the glow of the evening.
Medieval clothing was nothing without its finishing touches! Take a journey with Author, Independent Researcher and History Enthusiast Rosalie Gilbert into the world of medieval dress accessories and discover behind the scenes information on how these amazing items were crafted! Learn about the techniques used in the Middle Ages by highly skilled craftsmen and reproduced by today’s artisans.
A rare “white glove experience” will allow you to carefully handle some original artifacts from The Gilbert Collection to examine the workmanship of the medieval world. High end reproductions will also be on display.
Ticketing Inclusions:
- 40 min talk
- Evening through the museum with a special first-look at artefacts from the Reserve Collection.
- Exclusive white glove experience
- Gift bag
- Cheese and Wine evening
Recommended ages 16+
Sensory Friendly Sessions: Croc! Lost Giants to Living Legends exhibition
We’re turning the sound down and reducing visitor numbers in the Croc! Lost Giants to Living Legends exhibition to create a calmer, more relaxed museum experience.
These quieter hours are designed to welcome guests on the autism spectrum, and anyone who would benefit from a less busy, lower-sensory environment.
TWO SESSIONS
18 April 8.15 - 10.00am
1 August 8.15am - 10.00am
Autumn Craft Market at The Embroiderers' Guild, Queensland
Handcrafted gifts, vintage linens and second hand embroidery supplies
The first Embroiderers’ Guild was formed in the United Kingdom in 1906 by sixteen former students of the Royal School of Needlework. The Guild was formed to build an awareness of stitch and textile art.
The Embroiderers’ Guild in Australia
In Australia, rather than having a single Guild nationwide, each state created its own independent Embroiderers’ Guild.
The first Australian Guild formed in New South Wales in 1957 and was initially formed as a branch of the Embroiderers’ Guild of London but very soon became an independent entity.
The Embroiderers’ Guild, Queensland
In 1964, Queensland members of The Embroiderers’ Guild of New South Wales began to meet monthly at members’ private residences within the Brisbane area. Towards the end of 1967, this group numbered around thirty and enquiries were made to the parent Guild in London regarding the procedures for association.
In May 1968, The Embroiderers’ Guild, Queensland Inc (EGQ) formed with Mabel McAlister OAM elected as EGQ’s first President. By the end of 1968, membership had risen to just under one hundred members.
info@embroiderersguildqld.org.au
Heritage talks: Queensland cemeteries
Join us for our first Heritage Talk of 2026 where we will hear from a panel of experts and passionate friends of Queensland’s many storied and historical cemeteries.
Cemeteries exist not only for the dead but also as a space for the living. Across Queensland, they are now valued not only as a resting and remembering place, but also as places of historical significance and civic engagement that continue to connect communities in meaningful ways.
This event runs in conjunction with Dearly Departed: death in life, State Library's exhibition that encourages reflection on mortality through history, art and personal stories. Audiences are welcome to visit the exhibition before or after the event to engage more deeply with its themes and artworks.
About Heritage talks:
Our Heritage Talks connect audiences to our extraordinary collections by inviting speakers to share their expertise and perspectives on topics relating to Queensland history.
HOTMESS x Make a Scene: surreal life drawing
A playful, inclusive art activation celebrating fashion and self-expression through immersive creative drawing. Step into a world where fashion breaks the rules and self-expression takes centre stage!
Unleash your inner artist and let your creativity run riot at HOTMESS x Make A Scene. Inspired by Queensland Museum’s fabulous Make A Scene: Fashioning Queer Identity and Club Culture in the 90s exhibition, this outrageous, hands-on art experience is an unmissable invitation to strut your stuff on paper. Created by multidisciplinary artists Sophie May and Gabrielle Miller, HOTMESS is part immersive theatre, part life drawing, and part artistic liberation.
All materials are provided and enjoy a free drink on arrival.
Early session recommended for 18+. Late session strictly 18+.
Seasoned artists and first-time sketchers welcome!
Special dances for the Australian Heritage Festival
The 2026 Australian Heritage Festival theme, Change, invites communities across the country to reflect on how history has shaped us, and how we, in turn, continue to shape history. We have created two events to explore this theme.
Change Your Partners!
Dancing in the 19th century was all about changing partners! Social interaction was at the heart of dancing. In the early 1800s it was considered improper to dance with the same partner more than once in an evening! As dance styles changed, the roles of partners changed too.
Join us for an immersive experience as we dance through one hundred years of Brisbane’s dance history. We will teach the dances and no experience is necessary.
When: Friday, 24 April at 7:30pm
Where: Hills District Community Centre, 291 Dawson Parade, Arana Hills, Qld
Cost: $4.00 (thanks to Moreton Bay Council's Healthy & Active Programme)
The Planting at Woodford Folk Festival
The Planting 2026
The Planting, a much-loved weekend for cultivating connection and caring for the land at Woodfordia.
Set for the long weekend, Friday 1st – Sunday 3rd of May, this gathering combines hands on working bees, delicious food and drinks, informative talks and an evening programme of inspiring artists and musicians.
Our talks will be from experts in citizen science, regeneration and community lead projects and will include practical skills you can take back home to your own communities and gardens.
Brisbane Comedy Festival Showcase
Get ready for a night that’ll leave your cheeks aching and sides sore! The Brisbane Comedy Festival Showcase is bringing a stacked lineup of comedy heavyweights and rising stars, all primed to deliver punchlines that pack a punch.
Join us at The Tivoli for a night where laughter might just be the hottest accessory—you’ll be wiping away tears, and we’re not sorry about it!
Seats are disappearing faster than your dignity after a dodgy joke, so snap yours up now before the laughs are sold out.
Please note this performance will be Auslan interpreted.
Contains: Adult Themes, Coarse Language, Sexual References
A Night at the Museum: Dinosaur Edition | Queensland Museum Kurilpa
Do you dig dinosaurs? Get ready for a total dinosaur takeover! A Night at the Museum is back and Queensland Museum Kurilpa is celebrating everyone’s favourite prehistoric superstars.
Roam museum-wide after dark. Tickets includes entry to all temporary and permanent exhibitions as well as dinosaur themed activities, science shows and family-friendly night time fun.
This special dinosaur edition of A Night at the Museum is part of the inaugural Queensland Dinosaur Week.
Special dances for the Australian Heritage Festival 2
Historic Milestones: the changing nature of dance
Step into the rich tapestry of Australian history through the power of dance. Join us for a captivating workshop that traces the evolution of dance from Brisbane’s early penal settlement through to the early 1900s.
Discover how dance has been a vibrant expression of societal shifts—shaped by fashion, philosophical movements, and cultural influences brought by migration. Explore the connection between changing lives and changing rhythms.
All dances taught on the night. No partner or experience required. Costumes admired but not required.
When: Friday, 8 May at 7:30pm
Where: Farmers Hall, 30 Main Street, Samford Village, Qld
Cost: $4.00 (thanks to Moreton Bay Council's Healthy & Active Programme.
More information and booking:
The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards
Get ready to laugh at nature’s funniest moments! The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards, organised annually, attracts submissions from across the world.
This competition celebrates the hilarity of our natural world and helps to highlight what we need to do to protect it.
Featuring 60 images, this exhibition showcases a selection of the winners and finalists’ images from the competition over the years.
Join us for a journey filled with laughter, joy, and a renewed sense of wonder for the animal kingdom.
Free. No bookings required. All ages.
Image credit: Jennifer Hadley, Talk to the fin.
Redcliffe Museum is open Wednesday to Friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Saturday - Sunday 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
Wildlife Unleashed workshop
We’re bringing the zoo to you at Redcliffe Museum!
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of native and exotic animals from Wildlife Unleashed!
Hold a baby saltwater crocodile, look into the eyes of a bird of prey and watch an expert wrangle some of our world’s most venomous snakes. From rare cockatoos to playful possums, learn about the rich biodiversity of our planet and conservation through intimate encounters.
Explore our latest exhibition The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards while you are at the museum.
Free - no bookings required. All ages.
Redcliffe Museum is open Wednesday to Friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Saturday - Sunday 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
World Environment Day
Join us at Redcliffe Museum to celebrate World Environment Day!
Jay from Kumbartcho nursery will help you discover the amazing flavours and stories behind Australian native bushfoods!
Jay is a conservation manager who’s passionate about native plants and loves showing people how incredible they really are. For thousands of years, First Nations people have used these plants for food, medicine and everyday life—and now you can learn about them too.
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to spot different native bushfood plants, how to grow them at home, and how they’ve been traditionally used. You’ll get hands-on experience, hear interesting stories, and pick up practical gardening tips while reconnecting with nature.
While you are at the museum, explore our latest exhibition, The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards.
Free - bookings required. All ages.
Image credit: Jay Schieder.
Redcliffe Museum is open Wednesday to Friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Saturday - Sunday 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
Winter Season Showcase: CROON - An Evening with Chris Herden
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of timeless music as local performer Chris Herden takes the stage for the Redlands Coast Museum's Winter Showcase.
A true crossover vocalist, Chris's career spans musical theatre, rock, pop, jazz and operetta. From semi-finalist in the Metropolitan Aria Competition to opening for UK heavy rock band Motörhead, his remarkable range and experience bring energy and authenticity to every performance.
Proudly a local Redlander, Chris will bring the house down in this special one-night showcase, celebrating the unforgettable sounds of the golden era of the 1960s & 70s.
Make your evening extra special—pre-book a delicious individual savoury grazing box!
Evening Performance
Doors open at 6:00pm | Grazing boxes available from 6.00pm | The Curtain will rise at 6.30pm | Concludes at 9.00pm
There will be a 20 min interval where you can purchase wine, beer, soft drink or tea/coffee.
Please note:
Discounted tickets are available exclusively to Redlands Coast Museum members and volunteers. Discounts are not transferable, with a limit of one discounted ticket per member/volunteer.
A booking fee applies.
Concert location within the Museum may change, and seating arrangements are subject to variation.
Precious Threads 2026 Biennial Exhibition presented by The Embroiderers' Guild, Queensland
An exhibition of all forms of embroidery from over the years
The first Embroiderers’ Guild was formed in the United Kingdom in 1906 by sixteen former students of the Royal School of Needlework. The Guild was formed to build an awareness of stitch and textile art.
The Embroiderers’ Guild in Australia
In Australia, rather than having a single Guild nationwide, each state created its own independent Embroiderers’ Guild.
The first Australian Guild formed in New South Wales in 1957 and was initially formed as a branch of the Embroiderers’ Guild of London but very soon became an independent entity.
The Embroiderers’ Guild, Queensland
In 1964, Queensland members of The Embroiderers’ Guild of New South Wales began to meet monthly at members’ private residences within the Brisbane area. Towards the end of 1967, this group numbered around thirty and enquiries were made to the parent Guild in London regarding the procedures for association.
In May 1968, The Embroiderers’ Guild, Queensland Inc (EGQ) formed with Mabel McAlister OAM elected as EGQ’s first President. By the end of 1968, membership had risen to just under one hundred members.
Bugs Ed Workshop
Insects are the most diverse and successful group of animals on Earth - and among the most beautiful and bizarre!
Explore their weird and wonderful shapes and sizes by examining amazing cases of preserved specimens from around the world. Learn about where they live, what they eat and how they protect themselves from harm.
Get up close and personal with some of our live local Australian insects such as giant stick insects, preying mantids, leaf insects and more. You can even hold a stick insect!
Be sure to book this experience and join us at the launch of our latest exhibition, The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards.
Free - bookings essential. All ages.
Image credit: Bugs Ed.
Mental as Anything 50th Anniversary Tour
Australia’s legendary band Mental As Anything is set to make a historic comeback in 2026 — the first in 25 years — as original founding members Peter O’Doherty and Reg Mombassa reunite, leading an exciting new lineup to perform once again under the iconic banner Mental As Anything.
The 2026 tour will mark the band’s 50th anniversary, celebrating five decades of musical excellence with a series of exclusive festival appearances and select headline shows. Known for their infectious melodies, sharp wit, and unmistakable sound, the ARIA Hall of Fame inductees have carved out an enduring place in Australia’s cultural and musical history.
With 25 Top 40 hits in Australia, Mental As Anything’s catalogue includes beloved classics such as The Nips Are Getting Bigger, If You Leave Me, Can I Come Too?, Too Many Times, Come Around, Berserk Warriors, Spirit Got Lost, You’re So Strong, and the international smash Live It Up — a song that continues to receive regular airplay across the UK and Europe more than three decades after topping charts around the world.
Since the release of their debut album Get Wet in 1979, Mental As Anything have achieved chart success in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Europe, and Canada, with a No. 4 in the UK, No. 3 in Germany, and No. 1 in Scandinavia.
What began as a Sydney pub band formed by five art students has, over fifty years, grown into one of Australia’s most successful and beloved musical acts. Boasting the highest number of hit songs of any Australian band, their influence extends beyond music— their film clips, poster art, album covers, and T-shirt designs are now among the most recognisable and iconic examples of Australian pop art.
This landmark 50th anniversary tour offers fans a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience the band’s timeless hits live once more — alongside new surprises that showcase their unique blend of songwriting, artistry, and performance flair.
Don’t miss your chance to celebrate one of Australia’s most iconic and enduring bands as they return to the stage in 2026.
Abbey Medieval Festival 2026.
The Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology is incredibly proud to share that the Abbey Medieval Festival has been awarded GOLD in Festivals & Events at the Australian Tourism Awards, recognising the event as the best in Australia in its category.
Following our Queensland Tourism Industry Council – QTIC Tourism Awards win, it was an honour to represent Queensland and the City of Moreton Bay on the national stage.
This achievement reflects the dedication of an extraordinary community who help bring the Abbey Medieval Festival to life each year.
Beezentric bee workshop
Join the hive at Redcliffe Museum and bee amazed at the secret life of bees with our fun, free and immersive bee workshop run by Caz from Beezentric!
Caz is a bee enthusiast and environmental educator who will share her knowledge on regenerative and responsible beekeeping.
Learn how to create a native bee habitat and connect with nature as you discover our world’s most vital pollinators.
Then get grubby and learn how to protect our environment with fun and interactive character Tonyi the worm! Experience real worm farming through hands-on encounters with our wiggly friends and explore sustainability through play.
Bee sure to book this experience soon and worm us at the launch of our latest exhibition, Harvest.
Free - no bookings required. All ages.
Image credit: Courtesy of Carolyn O’Neill from Beezentric.
Harvest - Event Launch
This International Women's Day we celebrate our local women farmers and agribusiness champions.
Hear from a panel of passionate local women who are paving the way with a focus on culture, community, sustainability and innovation.
This event marks the official opening of the exhibition Harvest.
Harvest digs down into the rich agricultural heritage of our region – its deep roots, thriving present, and bold growth for the future.
The exhibition celebrates stories of this Country which has always been home to Aboriginal people who have managed it expertly for tens of thousands of years and from which today’s farmers continue to see abundant yields.
Through a vibrant mix of historical objects, striking photographs, and personal stories, Harvest reveals how agriculture has always influenced our land, economy, and ways of life.
Free - bookings required. All ages.
Redcliffe Museum is open Wednesday to Friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Saturday - Sunday 10:00 AM - 3:00
Event Website URL: https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Galleries-Museums/Events/RM/Exhibition-Opening-Harvest
Research Reveals 2026: Queensland history symposium
Join us 6 & 7 March for Research Reveals, a two-day event where our 2025 State Library Fellows present the outcomes of their research projects, revealing little-known histories and insights drawn from State Library’s collections.
This year’s line up offers revelations on:
- Refugee stories and experiences of settling in Queensland.
- The history of pearling communities in the Torres Strait.
- The practice of of cross-dressing uncovered across State Library collections.
- Businesswomen who defied pre-1970s rules requiring male guarantors for business loans.
- Queensland’s sporting history through significant sites on the Queensland Heritage Register.
- Bringing historical home interior décor to life using AI and collection material.
- Insights from a fourth-generation Showperson into communities behind the EKKA, Queensland’s largest annual event.
- Filipino migrants in Queensland, explored through festivals, music industry participation and everyday life.
This event is perfect for history enthusiasts, researchers, and anyone curious about Queensland’s past.
Research Reveals is a free event, but spaces are limited!
Please book separate tickets for the Friday evening and Saturday sessions.
Architects’ Art 2026 | Brisbane
Architects’ Art 2026 (AA2026) celebrates the creative lives of architects beyond the built environment, revealing how technical expertise, design thinking and imagination converge through art.
Opening on 6 March 2026, this vibrant evening will bring together architects, graduates, students and Brisbane’s broader creative community for a night of art, connection and conversation. The exhibition will then be open to the public from 7–22 March 2026.
Proudly supported by the Australian Institute of Architects Queensland Chapter, Red Hill Gallery, volunteers and our valued sponsor UAP, this event highlights the depth of talent within our profession and its cultural contribution to Brisbane’s arts scene.
Tickets: $30 inclusive of catering and beverages
Available via the Australian Institute of Architects (QLD Chapter).
#AIAQLD #UAP #RedHillGallery #AA2026
The Choirboys at The Princess Theatre
Back in 1978, a group of twenty-something mates from Sydney’s Northern Beaches formed a band called Choirboys. Surrounded by the wild, hedonistic chaos of the '70s youth culture, they soaked it all in—every misstep, every party, every outrageous moment. That life would ultimately give birth to their defining anthem: Run to Paradise.
Fuelled by the stories that have long echoed through the halls of rock history—Run to Paradise became more than a hit; it became the opening line in a book of untold stories. Now, 35 years later, the band is ready to open that book and spill everything.
Part concert, part story, Run to Paradise is a raw, hilarious, and jaw-dropping journey through the golden era of Australian pub rock. Told in their own words, the Choirboys share the stories you were never meant to hear—wild nights, backstage madness, and the kind of insanity only a rock band could survive... all, as these Oz pub-rock icons recall it.
“They didn’t call it Pub Rock back then,” says frontman Mark Gable, “but we were there at the start—and somehow, we’re still here. It’s hearsay, it’s memory, it’s what we lived, what we were told. And a lot of it is just plain stupid… but that was the magic. There were no rules.”
Which movie star did the Divinyls’ bass player meet under a table at a club?
What was Chuck Berry’s strange backstage habit?
Did Deep Purple really leave Mark with a limp?
And what exactly happened to Iggy Pop’s pants?
Set to a soundtrack of the era’s most legendary tracks—from AC/DC, The Angels, Dragon, Screaming Jets, Deep Purple, Divinyls, and more—plus all the Choirboys’ hits including Boys Will Be Boys, Never Gonna Die, Struggletown, and of course, Run to Paradise.
This is Run to Paradise—where the stories are wild, the music is loud, and the truth is somewhere in between.
Newstead House Wedding Open Day
About
Fall in love with Newstead House at our Wedding Open Day! An afternoon of dreamy historic spaces, riverside views and beautifully styled ceremony and reception setups. Meet trusted wedding professionals, gather expert tips and imagine your big day in one of Brisbane’s most romantic venues.
Free entry - pre-registration required via the following page: https://newsteadhouse.com.au/event/newstead-house-wedding-open-day/
TWILIGHT at QLD MARITIME MUSEUM
Twilight at the Queensland Maritime Museum
24 February 2026 | 5:30pm–7:30pm
Brisbane Living Heritage invites you to the first Twilight Event of 2026—an evening of heritage, stories, collaboration, and community at the Queensland Maritime Museum. Set against the backdrop of the historic South Brisbane Dry Dock and towering HMAS Diamantina, this special event is also the official launch of BLH’s 2026 Program.
What this event celebrates
This Twilight gathering brings together our members, partners, and friends to reveal a year of new collaborations and experiences designed to connect people, place, and heritage in meaningful ways.
At this event, we will launch:
2026 Collaborations & Events
Our Twilight Series continues to expand, offering rare glimpses into spaces and stories not usually accessible to the public. This event is your chance to hear the first announcements, meet collaborating organisations, and be part of shaping the year ahead.
What to Expect
Your evening includes:
Exclusive access to the Queensland Maritime Museum after hours
Bar run by QMM
Light Refreshments from Cuisine on Cue
A short presentation on the 2026 Program
Introductions to our collaborating partners
Opportunities to explore museum highlights and chat with heritage leaders
Member and guest networking within a relaxed riverside setting
Who Should Attend
BLH members and volunteers
Partner organisations
Local heritage groups and museums
Community organisations
Anyone with a love of Brisbane’s history, culture, and creative heritage
Accessibility & Important Information
The Maritime Museum has a combination of outdoor surfaces and heritage infrastructure; comfortable footwear is recommended.
Some areas have limited accessibility due to heritage constraints.
Parking available nearby; public transport recommended (South Bank station & ferry terminals).
Why be part of this Twilight?
This is the premiere event of the year—an opportunity to help shape the future of community heritage in Brisbane, connect with like-minded organisations, and celebrate the work our members do to keep stories alive.
Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Ever wondered what went down in Old Government House? Join curator Dr Katie McConnel for a free behind-the-scenes tour of Old Government House. Explore the fascinating stories of the influential figures who once called this grand building home, from Queensland’s early governors to the pivotal moments that shaped the state’s future. Hear about the lavish parties, significant events, and the major political decisions that were made within its walls.
This immersive experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, heritage lovers, and anyone with a curiosity for the remarkable past of Queensland's most iconic buildings.
Image: Old Government House, Brisbane. Circa 1869. Courtesy State Library of Queensland.
Organisers will photograph and record events for use in marketing and communications. If you do not wish to be photographed and recorded, please advise staff upon arrival.
For any queries, contact Old Government House on +61 7 3138 8005 or ogh.enquiries@qut.edu.au
ON:STAGE KPOP SHOWCASE
Brisbane’s Biggest K-pop Dance Showcase is Back!
Step into a world of rhythm, colour, and connection at ON:STAGE – a high-energy K-pop dance showcase celebrating community, creativity, and culture. Experience Brisbane’s best crews and performers light up the stage with powerful choreography, dazzling visuals, and the infectious energy of K-culture.
ON:STAGE brings together Brisbane’s vibrant K-pop dance community for an unforgettable night of performance, passion, and culture. As part of BrisAsia Festival 2026, this electrifying showcase celebrates the growing influence of Korean pop culture across Australia – where movement, music, and meaning collide.
Audiences will be treated to high-energy dance covers, original choreographies, and creative stage concepts from some of Queensland’s most talented crews. More than just a performance, ON:STAGE is a platform that empowers young dancers to connect, express, and inspire – celebrating diversity, unity, and shared love for K-culture.
Presented by BrisAsia Festival 2026
Kevin McCloud and Tim Ross - Live in Interesting Places
Kevin McCloud and Tim Ross - Live in Interesting Places
After years of friendship and a shared obsession with architecture and design, Kevin McCloud and Tim Ross are taking their banter and big ideas on the road - and, true to form, they’re doing it in some very interesting places.
From a Brutalist theatre to a reimagined heritage-listed church and one of Australia’s most loved public buildings, Live in Interesting Places brings together two great talkers and thinkers for an evening of stories, laughter, and design-fuelled inspiration.
It’s the first time they’ve shared a stage since their two sold-out shows at the Sydney Opera House in 2019, a collaboration rekindled with the release of their hit podcast Tim & Kev’s Big Design Adventure.
Super Tickets: Early access for upfront seating, intimate pre-show conversation with Kevin and Tim and a signed gift.
“It’s going to be entertaining and edifying,” promises Kevin.
“And full of surprises - we can’t wait to share what we’ve been cooking up,” adds Tim.
Tickets for this very special live experience are strictly limited, please book now to avoid missing out.
When and Why Did Roman Emperors Start Wearing Crowns?
The Abbey Museum Friends invite you to their first Presentation of 2026 – When and Why Did Roman Emperors Start Wearing Crowns by Dr Amelia Brown on Saturday, 7th February at the Abbey Hall.
Crowns of gold, gems and pearls, along with regalia like sceptres, cross-bearing orbs and purple cloaks, are today some of the most recognisable symbols of royalty, or imperial power. Yet the first Roman emperors wore only oak or laurel wreath crowns, and a simple golden signet ring, as befitted their status as citizens, principes and triumphant generals. Even the first Christian emperor, Constantine, was shown on many of his coins wearing only a simple ribbon or diadem headband. As part of the Australian Research Council project ‘Images of Power: Roman Mass Media and Imperial Cult, circa 79 to 450 CE,’ Dr Amelia Brown explores when, how and why Roman emperors, and their high officials, elite subjects or court artists, created distinctive modes of dress, jewelery and even Christian attributes for the emperor’s closet, ceremonial use, and official imperial portraits.
Crowns of gold and gems first imitated vegetal victory wreaths, then gained quasi-divine solar rays, while purple passed from a symbol of Roman citizenship to an imperial prerogative. Armor, cloaks and even the toga were made with more expensive decoration, so the emperor might stand out from the army or the senate. Sceptres and orbs passed into imperial imagery from the attributes of the gods, but also via the powerful legacy of Alexander the Great and Hellenistic kings. Only a limited number of people actually saw the emperor himself, however, to appreciate and respect the status of almost unlimited power which these attributes signalled.
Images both large and small of emperors, empresses and their family circulated widely in the Roman Empire, though, from coins to glass phalerae medallions or military awards, frescoes to busts to life-size statuary standing in temples, basilicas, shops, banks or public offices. Yet how could their imperial subjects ‘see’ that this image was the emperor, and then recognise the new Christian dimension of emperor Constantine, or his dynasty? Portraits from Constantine to Theodosius and beyond show many pre-existing symbols of Roman imperial authority and dress unchanged from Diocletian’s tetrarchy, or even Hadrian, and gradually others newly-Christianised, such as the crown, orb, sceptre, spear or military armor. Crosses, chi-rho’s and other Early Christian symbols previously separated from the imperial office thus became part of the imperial imagery of power all across the Roman empire.
Join Dr Amelia Brown as she unpacks some of the underlying symbolism of the first regalia of the Roman emperors, its significance to a wide range of viewers, and its contexts of display on the emperor’s person and on his portraits. For assuredly these new Roman and Christian attributes of imperial power had enduring political, artistic, and especially religious impact on all later rulers, audiences and portrait makers.
Event Website URL: https://abbeymuseum.com.au/event/agm-and-presentation-by-dr-amelia-brown/
Heritage Hands - Exhibition & Book Launch
Heritage Hands is a photographic exhibition and accompanying publication documenting artisans whose skills are shaped by time, tradition, and quiet mastery. Featuring crafts such as bookbinding, upholstery, natural dyeing, instrument making, and metalwork, the project celebrates practices that are increasingly rare in a fast, disposable world.
The exhibition presents a series of photographic portraits and detail-led images drawn from Heritage Hands: Volume One, a limited-edition book created by Brisbane-based photographer and cultural producer Melissa Hoedel. Together, the exhibition and book explore the relationship between hand, material, and memory — positioning craft not as nostalgia, but as living, evolving heritage.
Each artisan featured carries forward generations of knowledge through process, patience, and skill. Heritage Hands honours these makers and the cultural value embedded in their work, while advocating for the preservation of traditional crafts and the stories behind them.
Heritage Hands: Volume One will be available for purchase during the exhibition.
Event Website URL: https://heritagehands.com.au/events/
2026 Australia Day Play - Dinkum Assorted
About
Theatre Redlands presents 'Dinkum Assorted', the 2026 Australia Day Play at Redlands Coast Museum.
It's 1942. Australia braces for invasion, and in the remote town of Warrabadanga—temporary home to two thousand American airmen—fifteen determined women are fighting to keep the biscuit factory alive.
Just like the biscuits, the women are a true assortment but despite their differences, they discover strength in solidarity. Situations change and relationships change; their journey blends drama, humour and camaraderie in a story full of heart and spirit.
Produced by Theatre Redlands and directed by Jan Nary.
Performance Dates & Times:
Friday 23 January 2026 6.00pm – 9.45pm
Saturday 24 January 2026 6.00pm – 9.45pm
Sunday 25 January 2026 1.00pm – 3.45pm
Friday 30 January 2026 6.00pm – 9.45pm
Saturday 31 January 2026 6.00pm – 9.45pm
Sunday 1 February 2026 1.00pm – 3.45pm
Evening performances include a scrumptious two-course meal served at 6.00pm, with the show starting at 7.00pm.
Matinee performances include a delicious Devonshire tea served at 1.15pm, with the show starting at 2.00pm.
There will be raffle tickets for sale with some wonderful prizes to be won on the day.
BrisAsia 2026: Lois Kim & Hannah Seong
This exhibition reflects on the quiet structures that shape how Asian experiences move, remember, and relate to space. Through photography, installation, and painting, the artists trace the overlooked architectures that hold our daily lives that form layered spaces of belonging and cultural continuity.
The two Fridas (Hannah and Lois) by Lois Kim & Hannah Seong
Hannah Seong and Lois Kim’s exhibition explores the architectures of Asian memory and connection. Lois Kim’s beaded curtain honours inherited symbols and domestic thresholds, with Hannah Seong’s painting appropriating The Two Fridas to consider cultural continuity, adaptation, diasporic duality and friendship.
The works explore how objects – both personal and inherited – can anchor and disrupt the narratives we craft about ourselves. Through this, multidimensional realities are constructed where emotions, memory, and the queer experience can be seen, felt, and reimagined. What happens when we look at the past not as something fixed, but as something still unfolding?
Swingers – The Art of Mini Golf Takes Over Brisbane Powerhouse
Brisbane Powerhouse launches into 2026 with a bold new exhibition that’s part art show, part playground. Swingers – The Art of Mini Golf transforms the iconic arts precinct into a surreal, hole new world of playable art – a nine hole course of rebellion and play designed by visionary female artists.
From 10 January to 1 March 2026, audiences can putt their way through an unforgettable collision of creativity and fun, with works by Miranda July (USA), Kaylene Whiskey (AUS), Saeborg (JPN), Nabilah Nordin (AUS), Delaine Le Bas (UK) and Natasha Tontey (ID).
Equal parts absurd, joyful, and thought provoking, Swingers reimagines mini golf as an interactive, hands on art experience. Expect latex animal tail for putters, square balls, speculative mythologies, and candy coloured sculptures, all crafted into an imaginative course that invites audiences to play, ponder and laugh along the course.
Presented for the first time in Queensland, Swingers – The Art of Mini Golf marks the start of the new Brisbane Powerhouse CEO and Artistic Director, Louise Bezzina, who stepped into the role earlier this October.
“Swingers perfectly embodies what I want to champion at Brisbane Powerhouse, experiences that are daring, participatory and deeply creative,” she said
“It blurs the boundaries between play and art, offering audiences something truly unexpected. What better way to begin a new chapter than by inviting everyone to take a swing?”
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner welcomed the new exhibition, the first to be announced since Louise Bezzina officially stepped into the role of Brisbane Powerhouse CEO and Artistic Director.
“Brisbane is earning a global reputation as a city where creativity, culture and lifestyle come together,” Cr Schrinner said.
“Brisbane Powerhouse is known for delivering bold and exciting experiences and Swingers – The Art of Mini Golf is another great example of that.
Brisbane City Youth Ballet- The Nutcracker
Brisbane City Youth Ballet- The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker ballet tells the story of Clara, who receives a magical nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve. During the night, the doll comes to life, and she joins him in a battle against the Mouse King and his army. Clara bravely helps the Nutcracker defeat the Mouse King, transforming him into a handsome prince. They then journey through the snow, across the Sea of Lemonade to the Land of Sweets, where she meets many characters including the Sugar Plum Fairy.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Brisbane City Youth Ballet has entertained audiences for over 20 years, renowned for their talented dancers, choreography and magical sets and costumes designed by the legendary Max Hurley.
Christmas Cheer at the Museum
Christmas Cheer at the Museum
Experience the joy of Christmas Cheer at the Museum — a heartwarming community celebration where music, laughter, and festive magic fill every corner of the Redlands Coast Museum.
This family-friendly evening brings together the nostalgic charm of the Museum with the wonder of the holidays. Enjoy joyful carols, captivating storytelling, hands-on crafts, and meet Santa and Mrs Claus in their Christmas grotto — creating memories the whole family will treasure.
As part of Redland City Council's AR Santa Trail, the Museum is proud to be one of only five locations featuring an interactive Augmented Reality (AR) Santa Experience, encouraging families to explore, play, and connect through this unique festive activation.
The Museum will be transformed into a wonderland of Christmas decorations, laughter, and local spirit!
Featuring a sausage sizzle, roaming carollers, Santa's Grotto, Christmas Storytime, Santa's Post Office, Festive Craft Kits, and an Elf on the Shelf hunt!
IndepenDANCE(AUS)
Presented By Phluxus2 Dance Collective
Get ready for Brisbane’s biggest night of new dance!
For one night only, witness fresh ideas, fearless collaborations and Brisbane-made dance that breaks the mould.
Join us at The Princess Theatre December 16th for the city’s leading platform for independent choreographic voices — be the first to see what’s next in contemporary dance.
CHOREOGRAPHERS: Grace Campbell, Margo Low, Caitlin Murphy, Scotia Taylor, Chiu-Ju Wang
DANCERS: Stiliana Alfred, Ainsley Barker, Gil Blushtein, Clare Dark, Kelsey Dell, Bella Gilligan, Bryna Glass, Clare Glassock, Soleil Harvey, Chloe Jarvela, Jeannie Mok,, Briana Palmer, Katie Salcole-Bradshaw, Kate Utting, Anastasia Vogelsang, El Waddingham
Grab your ticket and be part of the movement - live, raw and unfiltered!
A Very Victorian Christmas: A High Tea Experience
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL.
Tickets are PER TABLE - e.g. Table for 2 / Table for 3 / Table for 4 / Table for 6
We are thrilled to enhance your Christmas spirit with a Victorian-themed High Tea at the Abbey Museum.
As guests at ‘A Very Victorian Christmas’, enjoy a High Tea experience including delectable sandwiches, savoury bites and delicious scones. Indulge in the heavenly aromas and flavours of sweet Victorian tarts, shortbreads, cakes and other delicacies. All served on your very own 3-tier platter in the air-conditioned Abbey Hall. The ambient sound of friendly conversation among fine bone china and silverware will yield to the harmony of carollers singing nostalgic Christmas favourites.
Arrive at 9.30am to take a leisurely stroll inside the Abbey Museum to be inspired by all its wonderful treasures and then pause for a photo beside our glowing 4 metre tall Victorian Christmas tree.
Your ticket will also include a guided tour of the beautiful medieval and Victorian stained glass in the Abbey Church and light your candle of Christmas spirit.
You are welcome to dress up in Victorian era costumes, or come as you are to what will be a most joyful Christmas experience!
Program - Morning Session:
9:30am - Abbey Museum opens
10:30am - Morning High Tea served in the Abbey Hall
11:15am - Carollers perform in the Abbey Hall
11:45am - Tour of the Abbey Church's stained glass windows
Anzac Avenue centennial celebration at Redcliffe Museum
Celebrate the centennial of Anzac Avenue at Redcliffe Museum.
In 1921, Thomas Rothwell proposed an "avenue of honour" to commemorate the soldiers of WWI.
The road was built by returned servicemen as a re-employment project, starting in December 1922, and funded through public fundraising and government contributions.
Two cocos palms were donated by Elizabeth Petrie and planted on 2 March 1925 by the Governor, Sir Matthew Nathan.
More than 2000 trees were planted by 1933. It is still the longest memorial avenue in the State. It is also a major arterial road spanning approximately 18 kilometres from Petrie to Redcliffe.
From its initial conception remembering the WW1 soldiers, it is now a living memorial honouring all veterans. The avenue was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in 2009.
Free - bookings required. All ages.
Guest speaker
Helen V. Smith is a historian, researcher, and author with a strong interest in Australian, English, medical and social history.
Researching since 1986, she has spoken in person and online nationally and internationally. She is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, the Genealogical Speakers Guild and Australian Historical Association.
Redcliffe Museum is open Wednesday to Friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Saturday - Sunday 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
Organiser email: redcliffe.museum@moretonbay.qld.gov.au
Organiser Phone: 0734806700
Event submitted by:: Redcliffe Museum
Christmas tunes with the Redcliffe Scottish Pipe Band
Redcliffe Museum invites one and all to enjoy Christmas carols and Aussie favourites like never before with a spectacular performance from Redcliffe Scottish Pine Band.
Between the resonant notes of bagpipes and the powerful bang of drums, there’s something for all ages. Music lovers will enjoy this fun, free family event on the museum grounds.
Stick around until 10:30 AM to celebrate 100 years of Anzac Avenue.
About Redcliffe Scottish Pipe Band
The Redcliffe Scottish Pipe Band was founded in August, 1953, and quickly grew with many ex-servicemen joining its ranks.
Every year the band leads Redcliffe’s Anzac Day celebrations, proudly representing the community and achieving both local and national recognition.
To this day the band remains a steadfast symbol of Scottish heritage in the region.
Elf on the Shelf - Scavenger Hunt
Elf on the Shelf - Scavenger Hunt
Six cheeky, mischievous elves are hiding among the Museum's fascinating artefacts! Grab a picture scavenger hunt sheet and see if you can find them all. A fun and interactive activity for kids (and kids-at-heart) as they explore the Museum's exhibits in a whole new way.
While you're here, visit Santa's Grotto and get creative with some Christmas craft activities!
Santa's Grotto & Letter Writing Station
Santa's Grotto & Letter Writing Station
Step into Redland Coast Museum's Toy Hall of Fame, transformed into Santa's Grotto — a magical space filled with glittering decorations, wrapped presents, and a cosy fireplace display that captures the nostalgic joy of the season.
At the heart of the Grotto sits Santa's iconic red chair, the perfect backdrop for festive photos and family memories.
Santa himself will also be making an appearance during the following times:
Tuesday 9 Dec – 10am to 12pm
Thursday 11 Dec – 10am to 12pm
Saturday 13 Dec – 10am to 12pm
Tuesday 16 Dec – 10am to 12pm
Wednesday 17 Dec – 10am to 12pm
Children can also visit the Letter Writing Station, where they can write their wishes to Santa and post them in the Christmas Mail Box before he sets off on his sleigh!
Open for photos, letter writing, and festive fun throughout the holidays!
Billy Missi'n Wakain Thamai
Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai
is a profound exhibition honouring the late Torres Strait Islander artist Billy Missi (1970-2012).
Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai brings together 25 of the artist’s most significant and iconic artworks, including rare and never-before-exhibited monoprints, etchings, and linoprints from Djumbunji Fine Art Press and private collections. Curated by Dr Russell Milledge, this retrospective was developed in close consultation with the Billy Missi Estate, family members and friends, highlighting Missi’s critical role in the emergence of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait) printmaking as a contemporary art form.
The Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai exhibition honours Missi’s artistic legacy and his dedication to maintaining the language and culture of his people. The bilingual exhibition features diverse forms of printmaking and a film, presenting an immersive experience into contemporary Torres Strait Islander culture and customs. Audiences will gain a deep appreciation for Missi’s work, reflecting his way of life, traditions, and enduring legacy.
Further showcase information
All artworks are accompanied by bilingual exhibition labels, in both English and Kala Lagaw Ya, the language of the Western Torres Strait Island. The exhibition also offers an audio guide in both languages.
About the artist
Billy Missi was born on Mabuiag Island and was deeply influenced by the storytelling, song, and dance traditions of his Wagadagam Tribe. Beginning in earnest in the 1990s, his artistic journey combined traditional carving techniques with modern linocut methods, creating a unique aesthetic that earned international recognition before his passing in 2012.
Show 'n' Tell: Highlighting History - A Floor Talk with Local Authors
: Join in for a fascinating floor talk at the Redlands Coast Museum!
This Show 'n' Tell Focus: Highlighting History - A Floor Talk with Local Authors
Discover insights from some of Redlands Coast's local self-published authors, as they bring the region's history to life. Learn surprising facts, untold stories, and fresh perspectives on the past.
Come along on your own or with a group—and finish the morning with a delicious Devonshire Tea.
Christmas Craft Market
At the Embroiderers' Guild Queensland Christmas Craft Market you will find a variety of gifts handcrafted by local artisans, an opportunity to add to your stash from our Recycled Treasures and a chance to win a wonderful raffle prize. Entry is free.
Event Website URL: https://www.embroiderersguildqld.org.au
Date Start: 23 November 2025
Time Start: 9:00 AM
Exhibition opening: Kirrenderri - Heart of the Channel Country
Join us for the launch of Kirrenderri: Heart of the Channel Country.
This captivating exhibition showcases the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Channel Country.
Guest speakers include Mandana Mapar, Curator at University of Queensland Anthropology Museum, and co-curators and Mithaka Aboriginal Corporation representatives Shawnee Gorringe and Tracey Hough.
Enjoy a Q&A session and explore rarely seen artefacts, photographs and interviews highlighting remarkable records from remote south-west Queensland.
This national story explores the extensive trading routes stretching across Northern Queensland, South Australia, the Northern Territory, and News South Wales.
The awe-inspiring Channel Country is known for its monumental stone arrangements, quarries and intricate network of river channels.
During flood periods, these channels transform vast plains to swelling local rivers and recharging aquifers across the Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre Basin region.
The exhibition highlights sites of cultural significance. It celebrates more than 140 years of resilience and relationships between Aboriginal and pastoralist families in this extraordinary landscape.
Free - bookings essential. All ages.
Image credit: Max Gorringe at Tibooburra Rodeo in the 1980s. Courtesy George Gorringe.
Redcliffe Museum is open Wednesday to Friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Saturday - Sunday 10:00 AM - 3:00PM.
Organiser email: redcliffe.museum@moretonbay.qld.gov.au
Organiser Phone: 0734806700
Event submitted by:: Redcliffe Museum
Friends Annual Lunch & Presentation: “Brasses & Brass Rubbings” by Robin Czechura
The Abbey Museum Friends invite you to their Annual Lunch and Presentation on Saturday, 8 November 2025 at the Abbey Hall.
The talk is intended to give some insight into monumental brasses and brass rubbings, illustrated in part with images from the collection, both already catalogued and subsequent donated items. The collection started with John Ward’s interest in the topic, resulting in his book, the one remaining rubbing, and the brass on display in the Museum.
These rubbings provide clues as to the person’s identity, how the families drew attention to their status and affirming their position in society. Brasses and rubbings also provide rich visual imagery for those interested in all aspects of social history.
Brass rubbing was, and still is, a comparatively easy hobby, much like rubbing a coin or anything else with a textured surface. In more recent times what used to take place in churches, abbeys and cathedrals has now moved into dedicated brass rubbing centres.
The lunch commences at 1.00pm – join us for a delicious two-course meal (main meal of meat and salad plus dessert). Wine and juice are also included.
The presentation will commence at 2.00pm.
All are welcome.
Organisation Name: Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology
Organisation Website: https://abbeymuseum.com.au/
Organiser email: hello@abbeymuseum.com.au
Organiser Phone: (07) 5495 1652
Abbey Archery Day
Practice archery at the Abbey Museum!
Enjoy a brief discussion on the history of archery followed by several rounds of shooting. By the end of the session, we hope to have a collection of hawk-eyed archers scoring consistent hits.
A variety of fibreglass bows will be provided, suitable for younger and older archers.
After finishing the session, feel free to enjoy our air-conditioned Museum and Art Gallery. You can explore a wide variety of fascinating artefacts from the Palaeolithic era to Victorian times.
Our Abbey Cafe will be open for an enjoyable morning tea or lunch from 9.00am – 1.00pm.
This event is suitable for those 7 yrs+.
All weather event.
Organisation Website: https://abbeymuseum.com.au/
Organiser email: hello@abbeymuseum.com.au
Organiser Phone: (07) 5495 1652
Ocean Sentinels: Inspiring change through art
Ocean Sentinels is a captivating series of underwater sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor which blends human figures and marine elements to symbolise the fusion of art and science.
This exhibition showcases 3D printed replicas of the eight Ocean Sentinels, crafted from reclaimed ocean plastic. Each Sentinel honours a renowned marine scientist or conservationist, highlighting their significant contributions to reef protection.
Ocean Sentinels is a touring exhibition from Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA), a dynamic institution committed to fostering ocean awareness through artistic expression.
Image credit: Jason deCaires Taylor sculpture, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Museum of Underwater Art.
Bribie Island Seaside Museum is open from Wednesday to Friday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, and Saturday to Sunday, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM.