Saltwater Freshwater Stage Lineup Announced!

Experience music, dance, and stories that celebrate culture, community, and Country

The Saltwater Freshwater Stage will bring the heartbeat of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture to life, showcasing music, storytelling, and ceremony that honour Country and community.

Headlining will be revealed later this week, but already the lineup promises a day full of rhythm, soul, and connection.

Joining the stage are local favourites Greenstone Band and Gunganbu Band, Birren, a Bundjalung artist from Fingal Head blending soul, roots, and modern storytelling into music, and legendary country icon Roger Knox, whose voice resonates with resilience, pride, and lived experience.

Guiding audiences through the day is Saltwater Freshwater Ambassador, MC, and host Nancy Pattison, a respected voice in community. With warmth and insight, Nancy connects performances and stories, weaving a day-long celebration of culture, music, and shared experience.

Beyond the main stage, the Dance Ground come alive with movement and ceremony, featuring powerful cultural performances from dance groups across the region. Participating groups include Fig Tree Dancers (Dunghutti), Jalay Jalay Dancers (Gumbaynggirr), Mitji Djiyagan Dancers (Birpai), North Bundjalong Dancers (Bundjalung), Victor Chapman Dancers (Gumbaynggirr), and Yapun Yapun Dancers (Birpai), each sharing stories, strength, and connection through dance on Country.

Festival-goers can also enjoy a Didj Off, Corroboree, and other cultural highlights throughout the day.

Catch live music from local artists Tariek Hart and Jumbaal Dreamin, and drop by the Yarn and Language Tent to listen, learn, and share stories of culture, language, and community. A full-day celebration of strength, survival, and connection — proudly on Country.

Alongside the festival, enjoy a range of satellite events celebrating culture and creativity. White Fella Yella Tree and Blaque Showgirls are screening at Sawtell Cinema, while Birrpai – Dancing Beyond The Lens is on display at the The Gallery, offering an immersive glimpse into contemporary Aboriginal storytelling through film and photography.