Sunshine Coast NAIDOC Gala 2026

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating NAIDOC Week 2026 and this year’s national milestone theme, “50 Years of Deadly”.

The Dreaming Collective Sunshine Coast NAIDOC Gala 2026 honours five decades of NAIDOC celebrations across Australia and recognises the strength, resilience, leadership and cultural brilliance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Held on Kabi Kabi Country at The Shed at Aussie World, this special evening will bring together community, artists, leaders, organisations and allies for a night of celebration, connection and Blak excellence.

The evening will feature:

Welcome to Country by Gubbi Gubbi Dance
Acoustic music to ease into the night by Al Bartholomew
Torres Strait Islander cultural performance
Party music to rock out on the dance floor after dinner by The Cobble Stone Band
Arts exhibition curated by Munimba-ja Indigenous Arts Centre
Floral display by Blak Botanics
Professional photography and photobooth for party snaps
House Jukebox in between entertainment, make sure to request a song
Sunshine Coast Blak Excellence Awards presented by The First Traders

Guests will enjoy a sit down two-course carvery buffet dinner featuring Aunty Dale’s bush tucker inspired flavours and seasonings, alongside a vibrant gala atmosphere celebrating the ongoing contributions of First Nations peoples across the Sunshine Coast and beyond.

Tea, coffee and a limited selection of complimentary non-alcoholic beverages will be provided with the meal. A cash bar will also operate throughout the evening for guests wishing to purchase additional and alcoholic drinks.

As we reflect on 50 years of NAIDOC, this gala acknowledges the Elders, advocates, creatives and communities who paved the way, while celebrating the next generation continuing to shape the future.

This event is proudly community-led and aims to create a culturally safe, welcoming and uplifting space for all attendees - both Indigenous and non-indigenous.

Whether attending with family, friends, colleagues or community, we invite you to come together in the spirit of celebration, respect and connection.

Dress Code

Cocktail/Formal - celebrate in style - you cannot be overdressed on this night.

Be yourself, feel good and look DEADLY!

Accessibility

The venue is wheelchair accessible on ground level with some small ramps from carpark as the site is elevated in areas.

Plenty of free parking onsite.

What’s Included

Entry to the 2026 NAIDOC Gala

Two-course carvery buffet dinner with a selection of three cooked meats, a variety of salads and vegetables, fresh bread rolls and alternate drop dessert.

Selection of charcuterie style platters on arrival
Tea and coffee station
Live music and cultural performances
Photobooth and Photographer
Blak Excellence Awards Ceremony
Community celebration and networking

Important Information

This is a licensed venue. Drinks available for purchase at the bar.

Seating allocations apply, please indicate at booking who you wish to be seated with.

Photography and videography will occur throughout the evening and published on social media. Please let photographer know on night if you do not wish to be captured.

Under 18s can attend at full ticket price, but need to be accompanied by a parent/guardian at all times and will be liable to leave at venue curfew in accordance with licencing. No alternate meal options available.

We will have a raffle on the night to raise funds for The Dreaming Collective First Nations Christmas Hamper appeal.

Tickets are limited and expected to sell quickly!

This NAIDOC Week Activity is delivered with funding support from the National Indigenous Australians Agency. 

Event Sponsors to be announced soon!