2026 Tiwi Festival keeping culture strong
The Federal Government has invested $250,000 to support the delivery of the 2026 Tiwi Cultural Festival, which celebrates Tiwi culture, knowledge and creativity.
The Tiwi Festival showcases cultural activities including traditional dance, music, art and storytelling, and provides a forum for Elders to pass on cultural knowledge and practices to younger generations.
It also strengthens the local economy by boosting tourism and creating economic opportunities for artists, art centres and small businesses.
Football grand final
Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said the Government was proud to support the Tiwi Cultural Festival, which showcases and celebrates Tiwi culture.
“Festivals like this play an important role in ensuring First Nations cultures continue to thrive,” she said.
The Tiwi Cultural Festival will be held in Wurrumiyanga on Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19.
For the second year in a row, the festival program includes the Tiwi Football League Grand Final, one of the most important and well-attended annual community events on the islands.
The community-led festival is hosted by the Tiwi Land Council and the Tuwurrampila Cultural Committee.
Festivals of this kind promote understanding and respect for First Nations culture and contribute to Target 16 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, ensuring that First Nations culture and languages are strong, supported and flourishing.
“As a proud Tiwi woman, I love the Tiwi Cultural Festival because it showcases everything that is great about our islands,” ial Envoy for Remote Communities, Marion Scrymgour said.
“This festival has something for everyone, from keeping culture strong through dance and music to the Tiwi Islands Football League Grand Final.
Festival continues to grow
“I’ll be there cheering on my team, and I applaud the Government for its continuing investment in important community events like this.”
Tiwi Land Council Chair, Leslie Tungatalum welcomed the Government’s funding boost through the National Indigenous Australians Agency.
“The additional support will help offset rising operational costs, particularly the significant increases in transport and fuel expenses associated with delivering a major event on the Tiwi Islands,” he said.
“Importantly, the funding will allow the festival to expand and continue to grow as a vibrant celebration of Tiwi identity.
“Now joined to the Grand Final, we have an amazing weekend of culture and AFL football.”
