Brisbane, you’re being spoilt.
On the Banks, the brand-new riverside concert series taking over South Bank’s Cultural Forecourt in early 2026, has dropped a second lineup announcement, and it is stacked. We’re talking Grace Jones, MARINA, King Stingray, and Sarah Blasko, joining an already impressive program that spans hip-hop, indie pop, rock, disco, reggae, and everything in between.
Presented by QPAC and South Bank Corporation, On the Banks runs from 25 February to 22 March 2026, transforming one of Brisbane’s most iconic public spaces into an open-air music hub with the river, skyline, food, bars, and warm summer nights all doing their part.
This is not a side-stage moment. This is a full-scale, city-backed, properly curated concert series, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting additions to Australia’s live music calendar in years.
The New Additions, In Order
The latest announcement adds four major headline events and one very special support slot.
Tuesday 25 February
King Stingray
Opening the series in powerful style, King Stingray bring their electrifying fusion of Yolŋu Manikay songlines and indie surf rock to South Bank. Their live shows are joyful, high-energy, and deeply grounded in culture, Country, and connection. If you’ve seen them before, you already know. If you haven’t, this is the one.
Wednesday 26 February
MARINA with special guest Mallrat
Fifteen years after her last Brisbane appearance, MARINA finally makes her long-awaited return. Her new album PRINCESS OF POWER leans into healing, empowerment, and self-reclamation, wrapped in euphoric, disco-lit art-pop. Brisbane-born Mallrat joins as special guest, making this an especially lovely full-circle moment.
Thursday 5 March
Grace Jones
A genuine cultural titan. Performer, fashion icon, boundary-pusher. Grace Jones live is not nostalgia. It’s theatre, presence, and power. There is simply no substitute, and seeing her framed by the river and skyline feels exactly right.
Sunday 22 March
Marlon Williams with Sarah Blasko
Sarah Blasko joins Marlon Williams for a closing-night pairing that promises something quieter, deeper, and emotionally rich. Blasko’s latest work sits in reflection, grief, and renewal, delivered with the clarity and restraint she’s become known for.
Who They’re Joining
These artists join an already strong inaugural lineup, including De La Soul, The Streets, Bernard Fanning, Peach PRC, Disco Club (already sold out), Blockbuster, Marlon Williams, and more. It’s a genuinely thoughtful mix of global icons, Australian legends, and contemporary favourites.
Why On the Banks Feels Different
This isn’t just about the names on the poster.
On the Banks is designed as a destination experience. Outdoor. Riverside. Central. Easy to build your night around. It’s the kind of setup that works just as well for people who want to arrive early and soak it all in as it does for those who want to show up just in time, see the set, and head home without stress.
For many people, especially disabled and neurodivergent folks, that flexibility matters.
Accessibility Snapshot
Info current to best public knowledge via QPAC and South Bank. We’ll update if artist or event-specific details are confirmed closer to the dates.
| Access Feature | On the Banks at South Bank (QPAC) |
|---|---|
| Venue Type | Outdoor riverside forecourt with flat, step-free access |
| Wheelchair Access | Yes. Step-free paths throughout South Bank and Cultural Forecourt |
| Accessible Seating | Available. Book via QTIX on 136 246 |
| Companion Card | Accepted. Complimentary companion ticket available when booking by phone |
| Auslan Interpreted | Available for select QPAC-presented performances. Book via QPAC Group Sales |
| Audio Described | Available for select performances. Some include pre-show tactile tours |
| Assistive Listening | ListenTech devices and Auracast available. Book in advance via QTIX |
| Relaxed Performances | Available for select QPAC events. Bookable online where offered |
| Sensory Environment | Outdoor crowd noise, amplified sound, stage lighting |
| Quiet Breaks | Easier to step away due to open-air venue and surrounding public space |
| Assistance Animals | Guide, hearing and assistance dogs permitted |
| Hidden Disabilities | QPAC supports the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program |
Booking & Access Support
• Accessible seating, Companion Card and assistive listening: 136 246 or info@qtix.com.au
• Auslan interpreted and Audio Described performances: QPAC Group Sales on (07) 3840 7466 or groups@qpac.com.au
Helpful Links
• QPAC Accessibility overview: qpac.com.au/visit/accessibility
• Accessible performances: qpac.com.au/visit/accessibility/accessible-performances
Unruly Tip: Outdoor shows can be more forgiving if you need space. Bring ear protection, plan your exit routes early, and remember that stepping away is always valid. South Bank’s layout makes pacing yourself much easier than most enclosed venues.
On the Banks 2026
QPAC, South Bank
25 February to 22 March 2026
Tickets and full program via https://onthebanks.com.au
Or phone 136 246
TLDR;
- On the Banks adds Grace Jones, MARINA, King Stingray and Sarah Blasko
- Riverside outdoor concert series in Brisbane runs Feb to March 2026
- Big names, thoughtful curation, genuinely lovely setting
- Strong option for people who want live music without venue overwhelm
Brisbane summer nights, river air, and one of the most interesting lineups of 2026 so far. On the Banks is absolutely one to circle.
Stay unruly.
