Editor’s Pick: From Yolŋu surf-rock to disco-lit electropop, the inaugural On the Banks series has curated a masterclass in diversity. Our tip? Don’t sleep on the supports—this second wave of announcements has turned a great festival into an unmissable one.
Brisbane’s riverfront is about to get a lot louder. On the Banks, the ambitious new outdoor concert series transforming South Bank’s Cultural Forecourt, has just unveiled a heavy-hitting second lineup for its February and March 2026 residency.
A joint venture between QPAC and South Bank Corporation, the series aims to capture the quintessential Queensland summer: balmy nights, cold drinks, and world-class music set against the glowing city skyline.
The Icons Arrive
The biggest buzz surrounds the inclusion of cultural titan Grace Jones. The “Slave to the Rhythm” singer is set to take over the stage on Thursday 5 March, bringing her legendary avant-garde fashion and theatrical mastery to the river’s edge. She’ll be joined by New York’s Afro-electro-disco duo The Illustrious Blacks, ensuring the energy is peak-level before she even hits the stage.
Joining her in the international spotlight is global art-pop force MARINA, making her long-awaited Brisbane debut on 26 February with special guest (and local favourite) Mallrat.
Homegrown Heroes and Support Stars
The series kicks off on Tuesday 25 February with the high-octane energy of King Stingray. Their blend of ancient songlines and surf-rock will be preceded by the shimmering vocals of Jack River and the sharp indie edge of The Buoys.
For those seeking soul, Maui superstar Maoli has already sold out his 20 March date, while the legendary Sarah Blasko joins Marlon Williams to close the series on 22 March.
The Full Lineup: Who’s Playing When?
The Cultural Forecourt will be a revolving door of talent throughout the month. Here is the final schedule for the 2026 season:
| Date | Headliner | Supports & Special Guests |
| Tue 25 Feb | King Stingray | Jack River + The Buoys |
| Wed 26 Feb | MARINA | Mallrat |
| Sun 1 Mar | De La Soul | Oddisee & Good Compny + Miss Kaninna |
| Thu 5 Mar | Grace Jones | The Illustrious Blacks |
| Fri 6 Mar | The Streets | Shady Nasty |
| Sat 7 Mar | Disco Club | SOLD OUT |
| Sun 15 Mar | Bernard Fanning | Kasey Chambers + The Paper Kites + Troy & Jem Cassar-Daley + Georgia Mooney |
| Thu 19 Mar | Peach PRC | Maude Latour + Salty |
| Fri 20 Mar | Maoli | SOLD OUT |
| Sun 22 Mar | Marlon Williams | Sarah Blasko + The Yarra Benders + Ngā Mātai Pūrua |
Plan Your Night: The Lowdown
While the music is the main draw, the Cultural Forecourt will feature a curated selection of food trucks and riverside bars. Arrive early to soak up the atmosphere as the sun sets over the CBD.
- The Vibe: High-energy, outdoor, and strictly summer.
- The Venue: Cultural Forecourt, South Bank, Meanjin/Brisbane.
- Tickets: On sale now at onthebanks.com.au or via 136 246.
Urbanite Tip: If you’re looking for a pre-show cocktail, head to The Sangria Bar at Olé for a quick jug and tapas, or hit Fish Lane (just a 5-minute stroll away) for a glass of chilled white at Maeve before gates open.
Photo credit: Andrea Klarin / On the Banks Press Kit
