The Cultural Forecourt at South Bank was transformed into a world-class concert arena last night for the inaugural show of the On the Banks series. Against the iconic Brisbane skyline, the evening delivered a masterclass in live production and high-octane performance, setting a formidable standard for the weeks ahead.
The Lineup: Energy from Coast to Country
The night was a seamless blend of indie-rock energy and cultural storytelling. Opening the gates was the sharp-edged guitar energy of The Buoys, whose Sydney-bred alt-rock immediately captured the crowd’s attention. They were followed by the shimmering coastal-pop sounds of Jack River, whose ethereal vocals provided the perfect soundtrack to the twilight transition.
The evening culminated in a powerhouse set by Arnhem Land’s own King Stingray. Their “Yolŋu surf-rock” brought a unique, electrifying spirit to the stage, with soaring harmonies and a communal energy that had the entire forecourt on its feet.
Production Excellence
It wasn’t just the music that shone; the technical execution was flawless. The stage setup was remarkably clean, providing unobstructed views from every vantage point.
- Visuals: A massive central backdrop was flanked by two high-definition LED side screens, ensuring every detail of the performance was captured for the fans at the back.
- Acoustics: The sound balance was a highlight—crisp, clear, and boasting a level of fidelity rarely found in outdoor riverside venues.
Show Times & Highlights
The evening ran like clockwork, with gates opening at 6:00 pm to a growing buzz of anticipation.
| Artist | Set Time (Approx.) |
| The Buoys | 6:30 pm |
| Jack River | 7:30 pm |
| King Stingray | 8:45 pm |
While official setlists are still being tallied by the road crews, the air was filled with fan favourites. King Stingray treated the Brisbane crowd to hits like ‘Let’s Go’, ‘Get Me Out’, and the driving rhythm of ‘Milkumana’, while Jack River’s ‘Fool’s Gold’ echoed beautifully across the water.
It was truly a night to remember—a supportive, vibrant, and first-class start to what is sure to be Brisbane’s premier summer music event.
