The gathering of Nations. 

Jarrah (Mother Earth) is a gathering of the nations in South East Queensland to cleanse the path for us all as we open the 2023 Brisbane Festival.

Through stories, song and dance, journey to the ancient world of Australia as we honour and pay respect to the Brisbane Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities. This opening celebration will be performed by the First People of Brisbane, who have occupied this country for more than 65,000 years.

Under the creative direction and Custodianship of Tribal Experiences Managing Director and Yuggera and Toorabul man Shannon Ruska, this smoking ceremony is a cleansing and connection to country to lead us peacefully into September.