Free First Nations cultural experiences across North Sydney during Gai-mariagal Festival 2026

The program spans exhibitions, bilingual storytimes, weaving workshops, guided heritage walks and author talks, with events taking place across libraries, galleries and outdoor spaces throughout the area. 

The festival takes place on Cammeraygal Country, where the Cammeraygal people have cared for the land, sky and waterways for thousands of years. It provides an opportunity to reflect on that deep and enduring connection to Country while celebrating the living cultures, knowledge and creativity of First Nations peoples today. 

The program features artists including Jodie Dowd, Nathan Sentance and Emma Hicks, who are part of Council’s inaugural First Nations Artists-in-Residence, and invites people of all ages to listen, learn and connect through creativity, conversation and shared experiences on Country. 

North Sydney Mayor Zoë Baker said the Gai-mariagal Festival offers an important opportunity for the community to connect with First Nations culture. 

“The Gai-mariagal Festival invites our community to come together to listen, learn and reflect on the deep cultural knowledge and creativity of First Nations peoples,” Mayor Baker said. 

“From family-friendly storytelling to hands-on workshops and powerful exhibitions, these events create welcoming spaces for people of all ages to connect with culture, creativity and Country.” 

The Gai‑mariagal Festival is a region-wide celebration of First Nations culture held across North Sydney, aligned with National Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week. Some events require bookings.  

Full details are available at Council’s website: Gai-mariagal Festival 2026 – North Sydney Council 

North Sydney Council Event Program 

First Nations Bilingual Storytimes 
Friday 29 May, 19 June and 31 July • No bookings required 

Families are invited to explore the incredible first languages of Australia through a welcoming program of bilingual storytimes. Friendly presenters will share books, stories and language in sessions designed for children and families of all backgrounds. 

Mothers groups, preschools and larger groups are encouraged to email [email protected] to ensure sufficient space. 

Basket Weaving Workshops with Jodie Dowd & Sasha Parlett 
Saturday 30 May and 20 June • Free, bookings essential • All materials and refreshments provided 

Join local First Nations artists Jodie Dowd and Sasha Parlett for a hands‑on weaving workshop. Participants will learn traditional weaving techniques while creating their own bangle and mini basket in a relaxed and welcoming environment. 

Suitable for adults and young people aged 12+ (with an accompanying adult). 

Weaving and Yarning Circle with Koori Kinnections 
Thursday 4 June • Bookings essential • Ages 13–35 

Learn traditional First Nations weaving methods in a cross‑generational yarning circle designed for connection, conversation and community. This session offers space for deeper cultural understanding and shared learning. 

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Walk  
Sunday 28 June • In partnership with Lane Cove Council • Bookings open from 17 May 

Discover the Aboriginal heritage and history of Lane Cove and North Sydney on a guided walk with Karen Smith from the Aboriginal Heritage Office. Visiting Tambourine Bay in Riverview and Berry Island in Waverton, the walk explores culture, spirituality, language and ongoing connection to Country of the Cammeraygal and Wallumedegal people. 

Threadlines Art Exhibition 
Thursday 2 July to Sunday 2 August • Opening night: Thursday 2 July, 6–8pm 

Curated by Nicole Monks, Threadlines brings together five First Nations artists across residency pathways in an exhibition shaped by weaving, journey and connection. 

The exhibition features work by North Sydney Council Creative Spaces First Nations residents Jodie Dowd, Nathan Sentance and Emma Hicks, alongside Ngaire Pakai and Jasmine Christie from Newcastle’s Creative Incubator First Nations emerging artists residency. 

Creative Drop‑In Workshop: Connection to Country through Waterways 
Saturday 4 July • Bookings essential 

Join artist educators Merindah Funnell (Wiradjuri) and Emma Hicks (Gamilaroi) for a relaxed creative workshop exploring connection to Country through waterways, plants and animals. Participants will experiment with a range of materials to create a personalised tote inspired by native plants and habitats. 

Meet the Author with Melissa‑Jane Fogarty 
Wednesday 8 July, 2–3pm • Stanton Library, Level 1 • No bookings required  

Meet acclaimed First Nations author Melissa‑Jane Fogarty for an engaging session filled with stories, insights and writing inspiration. Books will be available for purchase after the event. 

Images

Weaving with Koori Kinnections.jpg

North Sydney Council will present a free program of First Nations cultural events as part of the Gai-mariagal Festival 2026.

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Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Walk.JPG

Discover the Aboriginal heritage and history of Lane Cove and North Sydney on a guided walk with Karen Smith from the Aboriginal Heritage Office.

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Dr Emma Hicks, Jodie Dowd, Nathan Sentance_Photo by JacquieManning.jpg

The program features artists including Jodie Dowd, Nathan Sentance and Emma Hicks, who are part of Council's inaugural First Nations Artists-in-Residence.

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