Sunshine Coast Plans 10 Events for Reconciliation Week

The Sunshine Coast is transforming National Reconciliation Week into a 10-event celebration that proves reconciliation happens when communities show up together.

Running from May 27 to June 3, 2026, the coastal region north of Brisbane is hosting everything from powerful truth-telling gatherings to hands-on art workshops. The week kicks off with the annual Aunty Betty Memorial Walk at Dicky Beach Park, where Traditional Custodians lead participants on a walk on-Country following a Welcome to Country ceremony.

The lineup reflects the 2026 theme "All In," which calls on every Australian to take shared responsibility for reconciliation. On National Sorry Day, community members will gather at St Mark's Church in Buderim to hear Uncle Tais Muchan share his family's story as part of the Stolen Generations, while Professor David Hollinsworth provides historical context.

Young people get their own dedicated celebration with Manngoor Dja Youth Day on May 30 at Jack Morgan Park. The free event features over 20 community stalls, local artists, traditional dances, and complimentary health checks alongside food and snacks.

Sports fans can join the celebration too, with Sunshine Coast Lightning dedicating their May 30 match against the GIANTS to First Nations heritage. The game includes local Indigenous performances and cultural celebrations at UniSC Arena.

The Ripple Effect spreads beyond single-day events through lasting cultural experiences. The Old Ways New Marks exhibition runs for six weeks at Maroochydore Library, showcasing bold screen-printed works by emerging First Nations artists led by Jinibara artist Jennifer Kent. Libraries across the region are hosting Bush Tucker Sensory Stations throughout the week, teaching visitors about native plants Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have used for thousands of years.

Business and government leaders are committing to action at The Dreaming Collective Reconciliation Breakfast on May 28, featuring a keynote from Natalie Williams. Meanwhile, free workshops like lino printing with New Dreaming Art and bushtucker gardening sessions give everyday community members hands-on ways to learn and connect.

The GATHAA One Mob Reconciliation Market on June 13 extends celebrations beyond the official week, bringing First Nations vendors, bushfood, cultural dance, and workshops to the Hope Dreaming Centre.

When an entire coast commits to learning, connecting, and taking action together, reconciliation becomes more than a concept—it becomes community.