The 2026 Riverfest has been deferred due to budget and resourcing pressures.
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Published on 13 May 2026
Rockhampton Regional Council has made the decision to defer the 2026 Riverfest due to significant cost increases and ongoing staff and resourcing pressures.
Instead of the full festival, Council will deliver a series of smaller events, activities and activations throughout the CBD and Riverside precinct, funded through the 2026–27 Budget. These activities will continue to celebrate our community, local talent and the vibrancy of the riverfront.
Council will also be undertaking a comprehensive review of its major events program in the coming months to ensure future events are sustainable, well‑resourced and deliver strong value for the community.
Riverfest has been a much‑loved part of Rockhampton since 2015, growing significantly over the past decade. However, projected costs for the 2026 event were expected to exceed $780,000, compared with its traditional budget of around $400,000.
For further information about the deferral or the upcoming events review, please contact Advance Rockhampton at advancerockhampton@rrc.qld.gov.au.