C E L E B R AT E C U LT U R E O N T H E C O F F S C O A S T
MORE THAN A FESTIVAL, it’s a living expression of Aboriginal culture, identity, and connection to Country, guided by Elders, artists, and community groups from the Gumbaynggirr, Dunghutti, Biripi, and Worimi Nations. Visitors can experience traditional dance, storytelling, music, ceremony, language, and art while connecting with locals in a spirit of joy and respect. Elders guide and teach, young people take the lead, and every attendee leaves with a sense of connection and inspiration. he festival embraces the theme e ect Respect. Celebrate. The Next Generation Rising”, celebrating the creativity and leadership of young Aboriginal people. The main event takes place on 26 January in Coffs Harbour, at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, with two satellite experiences extending the festival beyond a single day. In partnership with Australian ive heatre riffin heatre Company’s Whitefella Yella Tree and Blaque Showgirls bring contemporary First Nations stories to life at Sawtell Cinema. Meanwhile, Birrpai: Dancing Beyond the Lens of Thomas Dick at The Gallery reframes historic photographs through a modern Aboriginal perspective, celebrating strength, continuity, and cultural reclamation. Live performances are a highlight, blending traditional and contemporary acts. Emerging
singers, dancers, spoken-word performers, and bands join established First Nations artists on stage, combining highenergy performances, ceremonial moments, storytelling, and dance to create an unforgettable experience.
It’s a space where culture is shared proudly, and everyone, Indigenous and non-Indigenous alike, is invited to reflect, celebrate, and be inspired.
Cultural workshops give visitors a hands-on connection to tradition. Join traditional weaving circles, try canoemaking, or explore lino printing under the guidance of Aboriginal artists, all offering tangible memories to take home. Food adds to the festival atmosphere, with family-friendly favourites like coffee, ice cream, and food trucks, alongside stalls featuring bush tucker and native ingredients. Beyond the festival day, Saltwater Freshwater supports Aboriginal creatives year-round through exhibitions, professional development, youth mentoring, and the National Aboriginal Design Agency. The Gallery in Coffs Harbour provides a permanent space for artwork, ensuring culture and creativity thrive long after the festival ends. “It’s a day to laugh, learn, share, and experience
the vibrancy, resilience, and creativity of the Mid North Coast’s Aboriginal communities.”
This January, step into a space where culture lives, stories are shared, and the next generation of Aboriginal leaders and artists rise. Through workshops, performances, art and food, Saltwater Freshwater 2026 invites everyone to celebrate, connect and leave inspired. Join us at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, Coffs Harbour, from 11am on Monday 26 January 2026.
Keep up with Saltwater Freshwater Festival 2026, from tickets and workshops to behindthe-scenes updates: saltwaterfreshwaterfest.com.au Sign up for the newsletter for exclusive updates SaltwaterFreshwaterFestival @saltwaterfreshwaterfest Don’t miss a moment of this vibrant celebration of Aboriginal culture! COFFS COAST focus 69